Aikuchi

[The Zieg]

I love this thread and these knives! Questions from this interested by largely ignorant bystander: Besides the apparent requirement of an aikuchi having the flat face of the grip (tsuka) directly meet the mouth of the sheath (saya), is there any shape or form that is necessary? The first knife in the thread, the Winkler, would seem to miss the mark (second post, too). But it does have a very nice traditional tanto profile, and I love the X marks evoking an ito wrapped grip.

In addition, can some of these terms overlap? For example, can a kaiken (kwaiken) also have an aikuchi fitting? (Would it no longer be called a kaiken for some reason?) I assume a full sword of any size could, also. I guess I'm getting to the question, "Is an aikuchi an actual type of knife?"

(I clearly need to go back to my weekly OnandonAnon meetings.)

Zieg

 

[EngrSorenson]

Your work is no more guilty of appropriation than John Coltrane was guilty for playing and mastering the saxophone.

We all stand on the shoulders of those who came before us.

 

[Arathol]

I guess I'm getting to the question, "Is an aikuchi an actual type of knife?"

No, traditionally it is a single design element originally used by Japanese makers used to describe a very specific way of making the grip-to-scabbard interface, i.e. smooth transition with no guard between the two. The specifics are outlined above.
I suppose that more modern construction methods and designs have inevitably lead to an evolution of the term, and it could be used to describe any Japanese-style blade with no guard.

 

[KenHash]

I love this thread and these knives! Questions from this interested by largely ignorant bystander: Besides the apparent requirement of an aikuchi having the flat face of the grip (tsuka) directly meet the mouth of the sheath (saya), is there any shape or form that is necessary? The first knife in the thread, the Winkler, would seem to miss the mark (second post, too). But it does have a very nice traditional tanto profile, and I love the X marks evoking an ito wrapped grip.

In addition, can some of these terms overlap? For example, can a kaiken (kwaiken) also have an aikuchi fitting? (Would it no longer be called a kaiken for some reason?) I assume a full sword of any size could, also. I guess I'm getting to the question, "Is an aikuchi an actual type of knife?"

(I clearly need to go back to my weekly OnandonAnon meetings.)

Zieg

A Kaiken can have an Aikuchi fitting. But generally a Kaiken is 4-5 sun (an old form of measurement) that equates to 12-15 cm.
Whereas what is caklled a Tanto, includinng an Aikuchi one, is generally 30 cm.
Kaiken 懐剣 which is made up of Futokoro 懐(inside the kimono robe) and 剣　tsurugi/ken (sword) was something of an EDC
of 400 years ago.

 

[KenHash]

Ken, after walking the dog, it occurs to me that my wording may sound as if I’m arguing with you, and that is absolutely not the case. In fact, I’m in agreement with you. There is a great deal to be gained by understanding the history and background, and in fact striving for that information is both noble and rewarding. I don’t want you to think that I’ve somehow ignored everything about this topic and maintained a state of blissful ignorance while cobbing blade shapes from the Japanese

No worries. I didn't interpret your response as argumentative.
I don't see how anyone could consider your work to be an appropriation. And I don't think anyone here has accused you of it. You make beautiful knive in a known Japanese style which you recognize and you sign them. There is no deceit or intent to mislead anyone. As I said I think your work represents an homage to a widely recognized old design.

I define appropriation and the use or taking of someone elses' concept or material, usually without permission or consent. And when that includes deceiving consumers that's pretty much what you called "theft".

What I consider "appropriation" is like this nonsense on ebay below. Nowhere on the page does the word "China" appear.

Japanese Kiritsuke Kitchen Knife Hand Forged High Carbon 3 Layer CompositeSteel

​

​

 

[Matthew Gregory]

What I consider "appropriation" is like this nonsense on ebay below. Nowhere on the page does the word "China" appear.

Japanese Kiritsuke Kitchen Knife Hand Forged High Carbon 3 Layer CompositeSteel

​

…but, that sweet, sweet edge geometry. What do you figure, overlooking the totally variable overall thickness. Maybe 25° per side? MUST be Japanese. Ought to work perfectly for splitting kindling.

If they’re going to steal, you’d hope they’d at least do it more tastefully.


We live in strange times, I guess. Likely no stranger than any other time, but I’m living in this one, and it sure feels strange.

 

[LSUisSEC]

Dont have one but im looking to get a Dragon King Tanto soon. Wish i could get more feedback on the quality though

 

[Arathol]

I know what 8Cr14MoV is......But I guess adding a couple more letters makes it better?
I've never heard of that one before.........

 

[Steven65]

Hence, my observation regarding my shameless appropriation of the design of another culture. Hope you’ll give me a pass.

Of course Matt you have also "appropriated" the single minded pursuit of excellence, design perfection, quality, and the usage of the finest materials available.

 

[Matthew Gregory]

Of course Matt you have also "appropriated" the single minded pursuit of excellence, design perfection, quality, and the usage of the finest materials available.

Thanks, buddy, but I’d never make any such claim. I’m just a goofball entertaining himself (and maybe a few others) with my fooling around.