Installing the Hilt

The Hilts are designed in such a way to create a force fit with the Shinai in two locations. The first being where the hilt starts to taper and the second at the opening of the Hilt. You must follow the installation instructions to achieve this. If you just stick the Shinai into the Hilt with out modification, you will have a force fit only at the tapered part of the Hilt. This will result in the Shiani coming out during use.




		Step One: Take a #39 Shinai and remove the leather grip and cord connector, leaving only the leather tip cap. You can leave the binding tie strings but they will most likely come off during use unless you tape them on.


	Step two: Take the sizing ring provided and slide it up the Shinai until it stops. (Do not force it on or you will not be able to get it off) Mark a line at the “blade “end of the sizing ring. Remove the sizing ring and put it somewhere where you will not lose it since you will need it if you have to replace a broken Shiani.


	Step three: Set the Hilt next to the Shinai so the opening at the cross is lined up with the mark from the sizing ring. Mark a second line on the Shinai relative to where the Hilt grip starts to taper. On the Hand and Half Hilt, this will be about 6” from the first line.

Step four: Cut the Shinai at the second mark. Taper the cut end a bit (use a sharp knife or sander)so that it will seat into the tapered section of the Hilt.

Note: You can taper it a bit less than that shown in the picture.




		Step five: Slide the Hilt onto the Shiani. It should go right up to your first mark. Hold the Shiani and give it a STRONG downward strike to the ground to seat the hilt on. The Hilt should be driven on past your mark so there is no gaps or looseness of the Shiani. To finish up I put a bit of tape around the leather tip cap to secure it to the Shiani.




		It is a good idea to give the hilt a good seating tap before each use to guarantee a tight fit. If you would like added security you can put a bit of two-part epoxy on the Shinai at the end and upper part where it will fit to the Hilt.


	If you have questions please click here to E-mail them to me.


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