I found Blizniak’s Bokken while researching different stores and craftsmen for days — reading about it in an old website and then being thoroughly impressed by the unique, custom order form. I was pleasantly surprised to find Dan Blizniak was still active because nowhere else could I find as many customization options, let alone the option to create a CUSTOM LAMINATED bokken. The 3-layer, laminated bokken I ordered was of impressive quality, met ALL customization details, and heldsup extremely well in FULL-CONTACT practice against other practitioners with bokken as well as sword pells. Laminated bokken from Blizniak definitely live up to their description in the FAQ’s — they’re much more impact resistant AND offer a beautiful, unique look that makes the bokken worthy of being given as a gift or heirloom, which was definitely the case for the one I ordered. Even after several days of the bokken being heavily used for practice, it shows no cracks or dents and virtually zero scuffs and scratches. Aside from the excellent craftsmanship, Dan is quite knowledgeable and communicative — answering questions and giving advice when requested. Overall, if you’re looking for something truly tailor-made AND functional for full-contact practice — Blizniak’s Bokken is where you’ll find it!

I can’t say enough good things about the quality of work Dan does or his commitment to his customers. I have both a triple layered bokken and pair of naginatas from Dan. The quality of these weapons is amazing. In my training, weapons take a serious beating and the triple layered Ipe-Lignum Vitae-Ipe weapons he has made for me and also my training partner are impressive. I have many bokkens from Kingfisher made from L7 grade hickory but Dan’s are a notch above even those. Serious top shelf quality!

I was extremely pleased to receive my new custom bokken from Dan. Both the service I received and the final product were of outstanding quality. I ordered a laminated bokken with a central dark core of Ipe between two layers of Tulipwood. The distinct and prominent red grain of the tulipwood is unique and dramatic, creating a work of art. The weight and balance were close to that of a steel Katana and its laminated construction symbolically mirrored the folded layering of a traditional sword. For a custom bokken I would recommend Dan without hesitation!

I emailed Dan and he got back to me when the wood I wanted became available. 10/10 for service and quality! Thank you!

I highly recommend the high quality hand-made products by Dan Blizniak. I have so far ordered several staffs from him, and they are all excellent and a delight to train with. Mr. Blizniak is very professional in all respects. His wood selection and prices are all superb.

The bokken Tsubas work well, and the bubinga bokken I ordered is fantastic!

Made a custom adjustment, thoroughly impressed he did as asked. Cumaru is strong, and the length required a dimension adjustment, which he complied. Quality craftsmanship

I came across these amazing bokkens at the Martial Arts Super Show in Las Vegas. I had used some other bokkens before and these are in a whole other league. The craftsmanship and time put into each sword is easy to see. They are all super smooth and shaped perfectly. I went with the Blood Wood and the rich, dark red of the wood has been brought out perfectly in the sword. Anyone who is looking for a fantastic bokken then shop no further. The price seems little high, but you get what you pay for and then some with these swords. They are made to your specifications exactly. So you true had a bokken made just for you. You won’t regret buying these amazing swords!

I asked for a 1/2 inch increase in depth of blade through handle made of Katalox. This bokken is not only stronger than other hardwoods I’ve come across, but the sheer density, weight, and thickness of the handle will be the key for me to increase my strength when handling other wooden swords.

I purchased a hickory suburito, and Dan messaged me and asked if I wanted this one jumbo as well, to which I gladly said yes. I received it yesterday, and it has met all expectations, and seems to be battle worthy, even as a suburito. Now all that’s left is to adjust the edge and make a tsuba of sorts.