From Bokken to Blade

Here, grab this spitting cobra by the tail.  Swing it around a bit.  Watch out, its teeth are sharp!  That’s me with a Katana in my hands.  When I close my eyes, the differences between this and the Bokken are immense. I feel the handle....its longer, but the grip is quite positive in the hand in comparison to the Bokken.  The balance is very different, and so is the weight.  I have also noticed the sloppiness in my bokken practice is just amplified here.  If the blade isn't swung correctly, it responds in turn.  Everything about this feels foreign, and dangerous.

I was thinking the transition would more seamless, but just a couple minutes with this and I am quickly realizing why they are two different weapons.  There are certainly similarities, but I am thinking now there are as many differences.  I am feeling a bit overwhelmed and am currently wondering what a form would look like with the scabbard on.

I was really excited about my weapon choice, but now I am a little nervous.  At this stage it feels like I am at square one again, and here I think, is there any way I can do this awesome weapon justice.  Most importantly, can I do it without lopping off my limbs.

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