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TSUNAMI ***********************************************
Learn more about our exclusive TSUNAMI handle wrapping cord (Tsuka-ito).
I was recently contacted by 'Greg' who wanted to learn more about the TSUNAMI Tsukaito we offer. Because Russ McCartney of Seattle holds a World Record for GOZO (mat) cutting using his TSUNAMI wrapped Tsuka, I suggested to Greg (the inquirer) that he contact Russ directly because I was confident that he would receive an unbiased first hand opinion from an actual 'user' who has had the most experience with it. The following is a copy of Greg's inquiry and the response from Russ.
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On Thu, Apr 17, 2008 at 11:26 AM, < GREG > wrote: Mr. McCartney, Fred Lohman suggested that it would be ok if I e-mailed you regarding the Tsunami Tsuka ito you are having your school's sword handles wrapped with. I have a high-end Iaito that is my primary practice sword but the silk Tsuka ito is wearing out right where it sits in the crotch of my thumb - unfortunately. Obviously I want my handles rewrapped so it will last many years, and will not fall apart. Has your experience with Fred's work been 100% satisfactory, and is this Tsunami good to practice with?
Thanks in advance, Greg
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"Greg, Yes I have recommended the Tsunami wrap from Fred Lohman to everyone who is interested in a durable long lasting slip resistant Tsukamaki. Its texture and feel is far superior to any of the materials that I have used in the past (I have tried them all) and consistently meets my requirements for durability and most importantly, reliability and longevity.
Of course various sorts of handle wrap material can do the job under light training conditions yet the Tsunami wrap holds up under the duress of hundreds of swings without gumming up and becoming slick like silk can often do. Additionally, there is not the heat issues from friction that accompany heavy training schedules.
I have had over 15 swords wrapped in as many years and given the opportunity to do it again, I would have used Fred's Tsunami on them all. It is extra-ordinary stuff from the quality of the material to the symmetry of the diamonds to the tightness of the twists, Fred had a winning combination."
Domo Desu, Russell McCartney Founder and Chief Instructor
Shin Koryu, IshiYama Battojutsu and Peak Performance Sword Systems PH: 206.321.8878 Email: info@virtualronin.com
Genuine testimonials cannot be purchased. . .Thanks Russ !
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FINE LEATHER
Leather handle wrapping cord (TSUKA-ITO) is available from both us and Japanese suppliers but because we manufacture our own cord, you won't need to pay $5 or $6 a foot just because it is 'imported'. Our non-stretch leather is 'Made in America' and when we wrap your handle, the cost of the leather is not added to the wrapping cost and, you will be assured that your handle wrap will always remain tight. Only $195.
By the time this recent production of 5,000 feet (above) is exhausted, over 350 happy customers will proudly show and use their great looking handles.
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The undisputed elegance of black Leather and black Same'
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SILK
The below handle wrapping cord is pure Silk and most colors are available in all three weights (Katana, Wakizashi & Tanto).
TSUKA-ITO Available in these solid colors only.
