LOCATION
East Aurora, NY 14052
937-270-8694
info@blizniaksbokken.com
WORKING HOURS
8am-5pm EST

What are laminated bokkens?

Laminated Bokkens are made by bonding multiple layers of wood together. This process involves gluing thin sheets of wood under pressure to create a solid piece. Lamination enhances the strength, durability, and impact resistance of the Bokken. It also allows for the combination of different types of wood, which can create unique patterns and colors.

Why should I buy a bokken from you?

Why do you use exotic woods?

We use exotic woods for their unique properties, such as density, strength, flexibility, and beauty. They also offer a range of grain patterns and colors that can make each Bokken a work of art.

How long are the handles?

You can specify the size of the handle when you order.

How do you measure the length of the bokken?

We measure the bokken from the tip to the back of the handle. Our standard bokken is generally 40 inches and our Iwama bokken is 41 inches. We can make a custom length if you prefer.

What is the difference between your standard bokken and Iwama style?

Our standard bokken is our most popular bokken. It combines many styles into one a beauitfully balanced bokken. Like martial arts, our bokken are designed for balance and strength. Through years of trial and error our standard bokken has evolved into design that will fit anyones needs. Our Iwama bokken has a moderate curve and shaped to the specifications of Iwama style. It has a blunt tip and is balanced slightly different than our standard bokken.

What is Dymondwood?

A highly engineered wood/plastic composite, Dymondwood has the physical and mechanical properties of high density hardwood, acrylic and polycarbonate plastics, and brass. Brightly dyed northern hardwood veneers are combined with engineering grade resins, heat and pressure to create a product that has the best characteristics of each. Dymondwood is distinguished by its unique strength, durability, dimensional stability, weather and moisture resistance as compared to regular wood.

Do you offer a Military discount?

We offer a discount if you are in the Military, Law Enforcement or a Firefighter. Send us a message to find out how to receive the discount.

What is Argentine Lignum Vitae?

Argentine Lignum Vitae is . . . well, not exactly Lignum Vitae. Allow us to explain. The wood popularly known as “Lignum Vitae” is, in fact, technically called “Genuine Lignum Vitae” (Guaiacum officinale). Genuine Lignum Vitae is quite famous for being “the densest wood in the world” — it ranks atop the “Janka Scale of Hardness,” which measures such things. The wood is also believed to have medicinal properties in its resins and chips; “Lignum Vitae” is, after all, Latin for “Wood of Life.” Unfortunately, because of Genuine Lignum Vitae’s highly desirable properties, the wood has been grossly over-harvested and is now possibly on the endangered species list. Although some Genuine Lignum Vitae is still available on the market, it is no longer being sold in any significant quantities. That’s where Argentine Lignum Vitae (Bulnesia sarmientoi) comes in. Although it’s not genetically related to Genuine Lignum Vitae, it has become widely used as a substitute wood due to its similar appearance and characteristics to the “genuine” variety (i.e., it’s extremely hard, heavy, dense, strong, and durable). With an average specific gravity of about 1.10, the wood will sink in water. Because of its incredible density and strength, Argentine Lignum Vitae is often applied in making mallets and clubs.

What type of tip is used for the suburito?

The Suburito has a unique tip that is a cross between the Iwama tip and the Standard tip. It is not as blunt as the Iwama and not as tapered as the Standard tip. Attached is a photo of the tip.

What is the effect of lamination on durability and impact resistance?

We use exotic woods for their unique properties, such as density, strength, flexibility, and beauty. They also offer a range of grain patterns and colors that can make each Bokken a work of art. By laminating wood together you are increasing the strength of the weapon. Bowyers have been doing this for years. By laminating the limbs of bows, you increase the flexibility and strength of the bow. When thinking in terms of bokken, you are increasing the amount of impact edges. The more impact edges you have the stronger the weapon will be. You can think of plywood as an example. The layered edge is much stronger than the face edge because you have many layers on the impact edge. The other advantage of laminating is that you can create a more customized weight and balance to the bokken. By varying the types of woods you can get different overall weights. Laminating also creates a unique and beautiful look.

How do you bend wood togheter in the laminate? There is any risk it could detach or separate (for blunt, impacts, suddenly temperature changes or so)?

Wood is bent using steam and pressure. The pieces are then glued together using strong adhesives. We typically do not use this process to make bokken. While lamination is very strong, extreme conditions or misuse could potentially cause separation. Genuine Lignum is not able to be laminated due to the amount of oils and resins in the wood. You want to take care of you laminated bokken and try to keep it at normal temperatures.

What type of finishes do you typically offer for bokken?

We currently use tung oil.

What is the curve of a Bokken ? From end to end, The gap in the middle is what ?

The gap on the Standard bokken is approximately 3/4″.

Do you make tsuba or saya for your bokken’s at all?

We do have plastic sayas that fit our bokken available as an add-on when you order. We also offer 3d printed tsubas to fit our bokken.  

Do you still get any genuine lignum vitae?

Yes we do come across it from time to time. If it is available as a wood choice when you order, then we have it in stock.

Do you ship to Internationally?

Yes you can select your country when you checkout.

Do you have any pictures of what the angled-cut bokken tip looks like?

Regarding the Bokken, how sharp are they produced?

I do not make the tips very sharp. They come to a point, but I round it over for safety.

What is the strongest wood that you sell? Are any wood you sell stronger than Hickory?

In my opinion, Ipe is one of the more robust woods that I work with often and it is more affordable as well. It is much harder and heftier than Hickory. Katalox is another very robust wood along with Argentine Lignum Vitae. For more information, you can compare the specs of all the available woods on this page: Compare All Woods You can compare many different factors like rupture strength, hardness, density, etc.

Does flex core make it easier to shake/wobble the end of the staff? – like when doing an energetic transfer to the end in a tai chi form. If so, does it matter what type of wood – like a heavier wood may not shake as much?

The FlexCore™ design in a staff can indeed influence how it responds to energetic movements, including shaking or wobbling during Tai Chi forms. The extent of this effect can vary based on several factors, including the type of wood used. Here's a breakdown of these considerations:

  1. Type of Wood: The choice of wood for the staff plays a significant role. Heavier woods, like Lignum Vitae (Argentine), tend to be more stable and less prone to wobbling when compared to lighter woods. So, if you're looking for a staff with minimal shaking during energetic movements, opting for a denser and heavier wood might be beneficial.
  2. FlexCore™ Design: The FlexCore™ design can make a staff more flexible, which can enhance its shock-absorbing properties. However, the degree of flexibility can vary depending on the wood combination used. Some wood combinations may result in a more flexible staff than others. If you're concerned about excessive wobbling, you may want to consider a design that balances flexibility with stability.
  3. Length: The length of the staff also matters. Longer staffs are generally more prone to wobbling, especially if they lack rigidity. If you require a longer staff for your Tai Chi forms, it's essential to strike a balance between length, flexibility, and stability.
  4. Personal Preference: Ultimately, the degree of shaking or wobbling that's acceptable can vary from person to person. Some practitioners may prefer a bit of movement as it enhances the flow and energy transfer in their forms, while others may prefer a more stable staff.
  5. Diameter Impact: The diameter of the staff influences its stability during energetic movements. Larger diameters offer more stability but can result in a heavier staff, potentially affecting maneuverability. The ideal diameter balances stability with ease of use, often being a moderate size that feels comfortable and controllable for your specific practice.
While the FlexCore™ design can impact how a staff responds to energetic movements, the type of wood used and the staff's length/diameter are key factors. If minimizing wobbling is a priority, you might want to consider a heavier wood and a design that strikes the right balance between flexibility and stability. However, keep in mind that some degree of movement can enhance the overall experience of Tai Chi forms.

How do the engravings work, and how can I get a name in kanji?

At Blizniak's Bokken, we offer the option to personalize your training weapon with custom engravings. Here's how it works: 1. Laser Engraving: We utilize advanced laser engraving technology to etch your desired design onto the bokken. This method ensures precision and durability, resulting in a high-quality engraving that won't fade or wear off over time. 2. Providing Your Design: To get a name in kanji or any other engraving, we ask our customers to provide an image of what they want to be burned onto the bokken. This image can include names, symbols, or any other design you desire. It's essential to submit a clear and well-defined image to ensure accurate reproduction. 3. Customization Options: When placing your order, you can specify the engraving details in the provided customization options. Select the engraving location on the bokken, whether it's on the blade, handle, or another part of the weapon. Additionally, you can choose the font style and size for your engravings to match your preferences. 4. Kanji Names: If you'd like to have your name or any text in kanji characters, please provide the kanji characters or the specific text you want. We will accurately reproduce the characters in the chosen location on the bokken. 5. Review and Confirmation: Before finalizing your order, carefully review the engraving details you've provided to ensure they are correct. Once you've confirmed the details and completed your order, our team will proceed with laser engraving your bokken to your specifications. 6. Unique Personalization: Custom engravings allow you to add a unique and personal touch to your training weapon, making it truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you choose to display your name, a meaningful symbol, or kanji characters, your bokken will reflect your individual style and identity. Please keep in mind that the quality of the engraving depends on the clarity and detail of the image or text you provide. If you have any specific requirements or questions about the engraving process, feel free to reach out to our team for guidance and assistance. We may reach out to clarify the location of the engraving if it is not specified.

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