Dha handling during cutting

[Andrew]

Originally Posted by katana

Traditionally, when held one-handed, where would the hand grip the handle.... Towards the pommel end or near to the ferrule (blade) ?

I would have thought the positioning of the hand would also affect the vibration felt.

Instinctively, I grip near to the ferrule end .....so effectively my hand is around the tang as I feel that this is the safest placement to prevent the force of the strike ripping the tang through the rattan handle....maybe I'm being 'over cautious'

Regards David

It depends on the construction of the handle David. Some handles have clearly defined grip areas, and I hold them there. Usually those are more or less centered in the handle.

In the absence of such grips, I'll hold my swords close to the blade, as I prefer the balance there. Long handles generally inspire two-handed grips, but are only necessary/practical on swords with large blades as well.