It would be so cool if you could invite Seki Sensei to england to make videos and try different swords together? Maybe even friendly sparring? 👏🏻 😃 🥋 ⚔️
this is the cool part of the internet age. We can get 2 masters that would have never met, discussing pros/cons of differing styles and swords, with the possibly of meeting to play around
And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. -John 3:16 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out. - Acts 3:19 If are in North America, please go check out any of the churches available to you: PCA, OPC, Rpcna/Rpc, Urcna, or a canrc church (These are conservative and actual Presbyterian churches) If you can’t find one of the conservative presby churches then, maybe a Lcms or Wels Lutheran church. If you are Scottish, I recommend the Free Church of Scotland and the APC (Different from the Church of Scotland) If you are English I recommend the Free Church of England. (Different from the Church of England) Online you can look up church finders for each of the groups and it will show you locations :)
Imagine if Europe had taken as good care of its traditional martial arts and we still had people like him who had an unbroken lineage of passing these down.
That would have been amazing but I think Japan had some additional circumstances that enabled them to maintain traditions. Mainly the self imposed isolation period from 1603 to 1868 slowed down the speed of progress significantly and came at a perfect time to conserve blade based martial arts.
@@atom8248 : German, Austrian and Swiss students , some conservative traditional ones , still do , Accademic Fencing ', which is seen as last relict of german fencing Tradition. It has its roots in duels, but today only the partly sharpened swords the fact that Sekundanten/ seconders(?)watch the , Mensur ', and that a medical doctor must be there, remembers the former duel. That is what i know, can be wrong.
Thank you so much for this reaction video! I train with Seki Sensei's online class and we were all really excited to see what he discovered picking up the longsword! The katana vs longsword debate will forever rage in the sword community, but it's really great to see very experienced practitioners of different sword forms collaborating and discovering together. So thank you again! It was very informative, and I hope that this continues into several back and forth videos of discovery!
Eh, with WW3 seemingly ramping up, I'd say we put guys like him in a bunker somewhere, so that the emerging populace doesn't have to pass the stone age.
I'm sure there's a law in japan where it's illegal to bring it foreign swords. That said, perhaps feders and other training swords are probably exempt from this.
I think Jason Kingsley (or Ian LaSpina of KnyghtErrant) would be ideally placed to do that video! Not that Matt isn't knightly in his ways and abilities, and perhaps it's just me, but when I hear knight, those are the go-to names for me.
lol reminds me of the time i zwerchau on instinct when a guy in kenjitsu class attacked before i knew that the fight has started. ngl there are many same things u can do in hema and kenjitsu but there are quite a number of things you would want to do differently. its not that one technique is superior to another, its that 1 technique is better for a certain sword design. a reason y i love to fight with a kriegs messer is cause i get to use both kenjitsu and hema techniques with both, creating a heretical get sometimes effecttive blend
I hope Seki-sensei and Shogo do a reaction to this as a follow up. I love content like this, especially the respect shown to each other from one acknowledging their lack in knowledge while another acknowledging the humility and sharing their knowledge. I wish more content creators did this.
And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. -John 3:16 Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out. - Acts 3:19 If are in North America, please go check out any of the churches available to you: PCA, OPC, Rpcna/Rpc, Urcna, or a canrc church (These are conservative and actual Presbyterian churches) If you can’t find one of the conservative presby churches then, maybe a Lcms or Wels Lutheran church. If you are Scottish, I recommend the Free Church of Scotland and the APC (Different from the Church of Scotland) If you are English I recommend the Free Church of England. (Different from the Church of England) Online you can look up church finders for each of the groups and it will show you locations :)
"Willingness" might be an understatement. Matt seemed excited to learn, and Seki Sensei seemed thrilled like a kid in a candy store! It's a mark of a true professional - not above learning more about your field, even when you yourself are a master.
I've seen a lot of comments similar to yours. Seeing katanas in the west isn't rare at all and I find It interesting and respectable that your nation is so proud of it's culture that it doesn't partake in others as much... it's unfortunate you don't have places to practice other arts however.
I just finished watching that video and he was extremely humble, but figured some things out very quickly. I liked how they asked for help to figure the cross guard out, plus other techniques. I really hope they get to watch your video Matt. I think it'll answer a lot of their queries. Another great reply video!
They also mentions very subtle things l wouldn’t have thought of myself like how binding feels different with a straight blade and that longsword seems less effective when parrying with side. Would like to hear more from them in the future
Seki Sensei had two videos where he talked about different weapons in his system, and I'd love you to share your thoughts. One was this very weird but interesting weapon that had a stopper at the bottom; keep the stopper in it was a mace, but pull the stopper it became a flail where you could shorten the chain as you will. Love as always, Matt.
@@scholagladiatoriaIt really is wholesome. And also, seeing masters of their craft being humble, sharing and demonstrating de depth of their kniwledge and application, is very entertaining. Hopedully you can do a "hiw a knight would use a Katana" and even maybe....fly to japan and exchange techniques with Seiki Sensei??
Decades of experience training in various weapons and styles... and both turn into excited schoolboys discussing their shiny new/old favourite toys, while still educating each other and the audience. Wonderful stuff!
Imagine if Matt did a full on collaboration video with Shogo and Seki Sensei and they just spent the day teaching each other various things about longsword and katana techniques
I think the King should send Matt to Japan. As a gesture of collaboration in these troubled times. Of course it will be highly entertaining and it will improve the work on the Tempest program, that Japan also joined, but these are just side effects.
The universe works in mysterious ways, because literally half an hour ago youtube recommended that video with the Japanese master using the longsword! 🌌👽
A little biased here, but that's one of the beauty of Japanese culture, the pragmatic willingness to adapt to and absorb tools and traditions from different parts of the world. Seki Sensei's almost gleeful study of the long sword is truly a joy to watch, and it's great to see that he's almost spot on in his assessment of its strengths and some of its weaknesses (comparatively speaking). I'd second others in that I'd definitely love to see these two gentlemen sharing each other's techniques and tips on using both weapons.
@@HelloKamesan Thanks for sharing that insight. My own culture (United States) has gained incredible benefits from an openness to change and foreign ideas. It's been truly terrifying to watch the recent spike in xenophobia from so many of my countrymen precisely when we need to be more globally minded than ever!
I watched the sensei vid earlier this morning. You can tell thr experience of the man, respect, I mean,he grabbed the longsword and after a couple of swings anf moves,he could dance with it,fantastic!!! And Matt answering almost straightwayd makes that vif even better. Kudos.
I love this. One master of a style showing grace and respect to another master of a different style, when crossing that cultural and martial threshold. Thanks for sharing, Matt!
Please do a collaboration video with Seki-Sensei. It's so refreshing to see people on both sides of this argument who are humble enough to be honest about their respective art and be respectful towards the other.
In this case, no one is arguing.😅 They both are experts in their respective types of swords/fighting style, discussing how to use the other's sword effectively.
@@KickyFut "...no one is arguing". That's what makes this video refreshing to me. I do my best to study and respect numerous martial arts disciplines. 90% of the HEMA content that comes across my feed is some self-proclaimed HEMA expert dissing on katanas for one reason or another. Goodness, I'll look up videos for Korean sword forms (I'm preparing to become an instructor for Korean sword), and somehow those videos show up in the results. The apparently stereotyped lines that the makers of those videos mock us with (we get lumped in with them because Korean swords are very similar to Japanese swords) are things such as "my sword is made of the best tamahagane" among the most commonly (quoted?) line...except I've never heard anyone actually say that when advocating for katanas. They're probably all referencing the same video, which is likely some anime nerd who's never actually trained: the equivalent in our training community to the hipster/gamer kid who plays too much Skyrim. This is probably the first HEMA video I've seen where he admits that both weapons, katana and long sword, were designed for different purposes and for use with different armor, overall equipment, and fighting styles. To me, it's like comparing the AK and the AR rifle platforms: they're both incredible weapons, but they were definitely designed for different purposes.
SekiSensai developing active offensive and defensive techniques on the fly was seriously impressive. Seeing him use the side of the blade to block without damaging the edge then following up by using the extra reach of the stabbing point? Impressive.
'Sword diplomacy' usually means something a little different, but this is a lovely vein of content and it's great to see Matt looking so happy and energised! =)
Point of balance (plus percussion points) and weight distribution and leverage might also be an important factor here: while possible, it is still uncomfortable to perform “out of line” strikes like Krumphau or Zwerchau. A katana tends to remain in line with the forearm when cutting but a longsword can get outside of that line (remember that video of Martin Fabian mentioning the Liechtenauer Helicopter of Death) and most importantly, the longsword fencing plays a lot with the binds, changing the aiming of the edge and turning the blade quite often, while the katana, for what I have seen and practice, doesn’t do it that often. An advantage that the katana has but the longsword has not is that there are plenty of ways to carry and unsheathe it, getting into action quickly and giving the swordsman many options for openings. Also, notice how Seki sensei can feel the thumb grip even when he doesn’t even know that it is a thing. He is letting the sword tell him how to use it, and that in turn tells us a lot about his own skills as a swordsman. My respects.
Such a brilliant “answer “ to all of the questions that were raised over in Japan. Thank you, both channels, for sharing your insights, experience and honesty with us all. 😊👍😊
Regarding crossguards, I remember that a guide in Scotland told us that some soldiers took out the crossguards for that reason. He explained to us that when you need to draw your sword, the last thing you want is that it gets caught on the belt or other part of the clothing. He was a tour guide in some kind of palace in Scotland, that was build in the Napoleonic period .They were worried that the french reached there and they built this palace almost like a castle, with very thick walls and it was full of swords and armour everywhere.
Such an irony. I just saw Seki Sensei's longsword video yesterday, and my 1st experience with that channel. My first thought was, "I'd like to know what Matt Easton would say." I have 0 sword or martial arts experience, except the little that was taught in the US Army. However, I've watch a large number on your channel, so that's the reason I am glad, though ironic, you did a response.
I loved this response! the difference in the philosophy concerning binds was a major point I noticed in Seki-Sensei's appraisal, and I was happy to see you touch on that as well. I'd love to see more content like this. comparing and contrasting, but most importantly, understanding the commonality between cultures and techniques, is something I'm very intrigued by.
Most of what I said, you just said better. Much better. About the only thing I would add, I think they missed is the two types of fighting. Armoured versus unarmoured. I'd be interested to see how Shogo, Seki Sensei take to armoured fighting in a long sword. Rules of the long sword in armoured fighting. It's a very different style. I wonder if they'd finger the guard, how the grappling would look. If they'd discover the murder stroke.
it was a joy to watch Seki Sensi's video. because you could visibly see his enjoyment in trying out something new, but it was also a great example how experience with swords and how the human body works with them crosses over, he was quickly using his experience to find out what worked and how they differed from what he's trained with. I would love to see a collaboration between both of you due to the amount of experience both parties have, even in the form of a discussion due to Seki Sensi being on the otherside of the world from Matt.
Sweet! I've watched a few of Seki Sensei's videos and his style of kenjutsu is very pragmatic. He also uses sickles and staff a lot. This was a great response video.
Few people I would want to respond more than you, Matt! You always give very measured and mindful responses even when you ramble on. Hopefully Shogo and Seki-sensei get to watch the video and talk a bit more about their thoughts. Would be lovely to hear more of their insights after they take in a bit more information of European Sword Styles.
I'm not even slightly interested in medieval nor japanes stuff but Matt is such a good and charismatic presenter that I've learned more than I want to know about this stuff. Keep it up!
THIS WAS SO COOL! I love when two masters from completely different backgrounds enjoy sharing and discussing the differences in their arts. We as general public get to learn a lot about stuff we would probably never imagine! Thank you so much 👏👏👏
You can really tell how estatic you are to share all this with seki sensei. Looking forward to seeing more HEMA x Kenjutsu content. Hopefully, this really takes off!
I would love to see Seki Sensei and Matt take a class with each other for a week and see what they can learn of each others styles. Both have years of experience under their belts and seeing two fine teachers share notes would be amazing.
Awesome video and an awesome response! 6:21 While he is right that later katana tended to be very straight (this can also be seen in bokken shape) I do think a caveat is needed for this image. Many familiar with European swords may have seen images that depict the development of European swords almost like a family tree with branches extending to other types of swords and showing the gradual change in sword design through the centuries. The problem is that this image shown here does not show the same thing. I made the mistake of assuming this image definitively showed how Japanese swords progressed but one crucial detail that is missing is the shortening factor. On top of the fact that these are pictures of individual swords, many of them were shortened in the Edo period and the way they are currently doesn’t represent what they looked like originally. When I first saw this image I was left with the misconception that Japanese swords were always the same length throughout their history. 8:00 (Side note) Another trend during the Edo period was the prevalence of smaller guards. Muromachi era tsuba did tend to be larger. You probably wouldn’t be able to do the same technique with a longsword but it would be much more protective than the tsuba we have now. 9:46 I think a distinction should be made between a sword that is “spring tempered” and a swords that is made of “spring steel” particularly due to its point of failure. I think the term spring steel should be reserved for industrial era/modern swords as that is when it really began whereas swords have been spring tempered around the world for centuries. The real difference is that a sword can still be spring tempered and have a ferrite core meaning its point of failure will be much less demanding than the modern steel people think of when you say spring steel. I think calling period swords spring steel gives the wrong perception and makes people believe the steel back then is analogous to the steel used in reproductions today. But those are all just nitpicks. Still, it was great getting his input and thoughts. This was a crossover I’ve been wanting for a while. It’d be cool if they could have a discussion but language barrier might get in the way
I recall seeing a rare unmodified early edo period tachi with an 90 cm blade and a 13cm tsuba once, which is pretty close to a longsword functionally I feel. The guard is a bit smaller than on a longsword but it wouldn't be bad protection at all considering it has good protection on the sides as well. A bit on the extreme end even for a battlefield tachi but still shows how different the older swords could be compared to later examples.
@@atom8248 Where did you see this sword? Also while I do think a 13cm (I assume diameter) tsuba may seem on the larger side, a 90cm blade may not be so irregular for battlefield tachi. I am still researching a possible average for pre-Edo daito so I can’t say anything for certain but 90cm doesn’t seem so far out of reach for a typical sword of the period
@@outsideiskrrtinsideihurt699 search Inshu Kanasaki tachi. Interestingly it's mounted with katana fittings on the scabbard, so it's for inserting it into the sash. If I was to use it on the battlefield I would wear it in a sword hanging device for katana (forgot what they're called and there's many types but they basically work like the hangers for tachi). The length makes it hard to draw when you wear it so high. I think it's bigger in general than most swords. Looking at tachi and katana that survived unaltered from pre or early edo it seems that 70-80cm seems to be the general range, and the tsuba is definitely a bit on the large side.
@@atom8248 nice find, I always love seeing swords that managed to evade shortening. Those katana fittings (specifically called handachi) would indeed imply it was meant to be worn in the belt. I think I get what you mean when referring to the frog device to suspend the sword from the hip (I forgot the name too) but there are 2 other ways it could’ve been worn in battle. One way is that the samurai who owned it simply had a different mount (or maybe just a different saya with ashi sling mounts) made for the sword so it can be worn and drawn like a tachi. Another was it to simply wear it like a katana and draw it as is. Drawing a 35” blade is more difficult that way but with proper technique and practice, you can do it pretty effectively. I think Tenshin Ryu does this practice with their “Odachi”. (I believe O-katana is a term more popular over here than over there incidentally, so they call swords longer than their standard 28in katana “Odachi” even though it doesn’t fit with our idea of Odachi length) When it comes to the possible range of lengths pre-Edo daito could’ve had, you can’t just look at the ubu koto swords as they either were already compliant with the new laws or were close enough. What you also have to do is look at the suriage tangs and the O-suriage tangs and compar their frequencies to each other. From what I’ve seen so far, there are far far more suriage/O-suriage koto blades than there were ubu koto. Koto swords around that 28” range did exist but they were not common. Especially when looking at O-suriage blades, you can’t be sure exactly how long the blade may have been before shortening. It could’ve only been a tangs-length longer or it could’ve previously been an Odachi. You also have to pay attention to forgeries, something often neglected. If a blade was shortened and the original signature was lost, someone at some point in history may have put a false mei on the tang. So just because you see a fraudulent, yet complete mei, it doesn’t mean it is automatically ubu. Determining a more precise average is incredibly difficult and I haven’t yet looked at outside accounts talking about their lengths. I certainly don’t think pre-Edo daito were commonly 70-80cm like you say, but I will admit I can’t yet turn up any precise range. Although a large clue may be found in the account of Japan during the late 16th ce by Luis Frois. He was quite detailed and observant, taking notes and often exaggerating the difference he spotted. Yet despite his propensity to inflate some of the contrasts he saw, he never mentions anything on blade length which might tell us that he didn’t see them as being different enough to write about.
It would be awesome to see you and Seki Sennsei spar - each with the culturally appropriate sword. I studied Japanese karate in the US for many years & then joined a karate club at a Japanese university I attended & it was incredibly interesting how different practice & practical application were, even though the forms were identical.
I loved how Seki Sensei appeared to accurately derive some moves from HEMA and use his experience with the katana to replicate other moves more common to both.
When I was watching Seki Sensei's video I was thinking "man, how awesome would be a response by Metatron or Matt Easton", well here we are! Thank you, Matt!
I just discovered both of these guys today and I’m glad I did. This was a great response to Seki Sensei’s video. A lot of fun to watch them both. I hope they collaborate in the future!
I love to see experts of different but still similar arts have a open and respectful discourse about the arts. Something that is missing very much in our current society.
explained perfectly as always. this is what the Internet should be about and how people from all over the world should interact: with respect, joy of sharing information and learning some new knowledge from other cultures. I know it might be a trivial topic for most, I think this is a great example of what all humanity could be! thank you for this awesome video
Yeah when he lifted the sword all the way up and the cross guard got in the way I was just thinking how open he was. But a katana is an all or nothing blade.
Great response. Very informative. Also, I want to point out that you know a true professional by how they address those from "outside" their tradition. Instead of talking down to/belittling someone from a different discipline, there is respect shown for the knowledge and expertise of another martial artist. Well done.
I hope @letsasksekisensei sees this. I would love to see some collaboration between the two of you, though I'm not sure if language barriers would be a problem. Seki Sensei seemed to really enjoy his first experience using a longsword, and I'm guessing he would also enjoy learning about HEMA. What other weapons in HEMA do you think he might be interested in learning about the proper use of? Polearms? Zweihanders and greatswords? Maces and other blunt weapons? Different kinds of single-handed swords and axes, perhaps paired with different kinds of shields? I really enjoy seeing different cultures interact in this way.
It's so cool seeing experts getting so excited by the intricacies of each others arts. The energy of Seki Sensei's excitement using the longsword and your excitement replying is intoxicatingly infectious.
You and Seki-sensei need to have a discussion about the similarities and differences of HEMA and Kenjutsu and learn from each other. please make it happen
Both you and the japanese sensei are brilliant. Us average guys and gals could only hope to glean a tiny bit of wisdom and technique from such masters. Thank you so much.
Would absolutely love to see a collaboration between you and Seki Sensei at some point, either a discussion, or possibly even an in-person demonstration of techniques and how they compare and/or “sparring” match with the two similar weapons as a means of demonstrating their similarities, differences, and addressing in a practical/tactile way the question that’s generally only addressed in theory: how would katana and longsword masters/experts deal with each other’s techniques and weapons in a duel?
These two videos as a set are great. Now I'm waiting for Shogu's reaction to your reaction. I think the three of you should make a set of videos together. I'm sure Seki sensei would welcome the opportunity.
It was a very refreshing video. I enjoyed how it wasn’t a katana vs long sword debate but rather an appreciation of each weapons strengths and the differences between them.
I _really_ want to see Seki Sensei try a (slightly curved) Kriegsmesser/Grossmesser, because I have absolutely no doubt that after a few hours with it, he'd be a _freaking beast,_ using basically every technique he know and probably recreating a few more that are known in HEMA but impractical with a katana 11:42 One thing you don't mention, here, is that the false edge cut _can_ have slightly longer range, due to the mechanics and angles involved.
I watched the original video because youtube pushed it at me, and I'm SUPER happy that someone who knows a thing or two was able to respond on the longsword! SUPER cool!
Fantastic ❤ a very kind and friendly video in an answer to Seki Sensei 's video. His and Shogo-san's . I really enjoy this video. I'm definitely following it as both a martial artist, weapons collector, and Fencing enthusiast ( thanks to my father who was in the military and led me to this path ) I enjoyed this video and you got yourself a follower from America. ❤
What a great reply Matt! I enjoyed Seki Sensei's video and I thought your response was so informative! I hope more of our channels collab like this more often.
I've done both Japanese and European sword martial arts over many years now and have put those skills to use in both forms / styles although i will say that Kendo tournament combat won't allow for euro sword techniques to be used as its a very formalised style just like fencing is. In Kendo, if you're successful with a strike but don't use correct form, you'll not score the point, but in HEMA if you use a japanese styled strike successfully you'll generally score the point. I've given weapons / sword displays many times over the years and I've found that combatants doing only Japanese sword arts get easily bamboozled and become hesitant when they're up against an opponent with a longsword, especially when it comes to thrusting. If I'm using a sword and shield, this is even more confusing to them, which ultimately gave me the distinct advantage. I mean no disrespect to any style of sword martial art for they're products of their time and place and therefore are relevant. I enjoy the katana just as much as I do the longsword as well as sword and shield. The fact that I know many styles in the end helps me hone my craft and skills. I got the idea of learning different forms / styles from one of the greatest martial artists of all time who practised this same philosophy and excelled - the great Bruce Lee ( **bows in respect** ). His Tao of Jeet Kune Do (the way of the intercepting fist) elaborates this very philosophy. Learn as much as you can, and use well what works for you. Master Lee was well known to try many arts from boxing to fencing to kung Fu and even dancing, which gave him exceptional reflexes and resilience. Using this philosophy towards my sword arts training has made it very enjoyable for me over the years. Thankyou Matt for your vids, I've been a fan a long time now, and some of your advice has helped me in my own journey re Sword Arts. Also, thank you to Shogo, and let's ask Sensei. Seeing a master of their craft, no matter the discipline, is always a great experience.
That's because kendo is a sport and not a fight. In the same way that olympic fencing is very restricted. You aren't even allowed to move sideways, and you don't get a point if you stab your opponent while you're moving backwards. You only get a point if you're the "aggressor" as decided by the panel of judges. Japan for the past couple hundred years (or longer) has very much been focusing on either the sports part of sword fighting or the ART in "martial arts". The sports guys are very good within the rules limitations of their sport but will have weaknesses outside of that. The guys who focus on the art like the different schools of kenjutsu very rarely test how their techniques work in combat or against resisting opponents. Most schools of kenjutsu don't do any sparring. Japan doesn't really have any major movements equivalent to the HEMA, (there are small groups which focus on historical fighting but they're isolated) so if you go looking for somebody to teach you fighting with weapons, it's either focused on a sport or replicating techniques passed down generations without practising them in combat.
@killerkonnat I thought I'd covered this in short form text by saying, "Kendo is very formalised just like fencing," but ty for your in-depth elaboration ;)
I think people underestimate that people in history aren’t stupid. Soldiers in modern times can use a different country’s rifles, which are more different than two swords.
I had forgotten over the past couple years, how much I love your work. I apologize for having forgot you. Life is....... well life. So happy to have seen you again here, and now.
I wish there was a school of swordsmanship that unified the practices based on our time, and the similarities the whole world seemed to share between periods. Great video as always, Mr. Easton.
@bigguy7353 Depends on what use you're looking to get out of it. Self defense? 🤣 ... But the simple act of training (not just kenjutsu/Iaido but any physical art) does a lot for cognitive and metal health, as well as physical of course. It can help develop discipline, strength, courage... and if trained properly, an acceptance of mortality and spiritual growth. So I disagree with it being useless. Even though there's a higher chance of pigs flying than having to duel someone for your life with swords, even for self defense it would help you pick up a stick and be more effective lol....
@@wakingbear2778 I train to control my violence. I've experienced domestic gun violence with mum catching a bullet (it went through a wall, the real reason). I'm accountable for my swings, but not much more. And they still do their job, but the real "study" comes from the collective mind of humanity 👍👍👍
Oh, it's SO cool to see this. I've watched Ask Shogo for years before he even set up Seki sensei's channel, never would have expected to see him referenced on Matt's channel.
That last technique of switching side to side like a washing machine is what convinced me that longsword was an important weapon, I was used to using a katana and I visited a training group that used longsword. I got quite the surprise a number of times but this was a technique that knocked me senseless and with a not a lot of force either. I really hope Shogo and Seki Sensei see this, in fact it would be awesome for both Matt and the Ask Shogo team to meet and do a skills swap. Two groups of equal stature with enough humility to really shine in the sharing of ideas.
It was so nice to see Sensei take a look at a western blade. Something I thought was cool was to see how much he enjoyed the fact that the pommel could be used to retain the sword quickly upon throwing it forward. I may be wrong, but I believe that the goal of all martial art is to end the conflict as fast as possible, and by having a trick shot to throw the sword forward quickly, like drawing a pistol, if you're accurate, you may end the contest immediately. Something else I noticed, at the end of the video, was that they mentioned how you tend to touch blades more often in Japanese martial art OVER western forms, and not too sure what they meant by that, but it seems Sensei was of the opinion that to fight with the broadsword it would be better to not get locked into a wrestling match with the opponent as the blade can easily manuever or counter such an attack.
Shin to of katana tends to be fairly straight, matching the practice of kendo at the time. Much more spearing and stabbing technique is used with a straighter blade. This is like going back into some historical fencing, as Japanese swords started as Chinese straight sword profile and it is common practice to jab, stab and spear a lot with straight blade.
Hi Matt having no experience with sword fighting in geral I found the video of the katana master trying to use the long sword absolutely fascinating as you andhe said about no clue how to use it what was so amazing was how quickly he adapted what he knew and techniques he was used to to a completely different weapon and it also showed why he is a master and so greatly respected and also by the respect you showed him also kind regards nick tovey
@@scholagladiatoria No, I mean on making a video response, I was gonna try and bait them into a video call to talk about longsword use. I'm with MSS over in Canada XD
I just watched that video earlier and thought it was really interesting and it would be nice to see you respond and here you did! Awesome! Really good response video too and as always very fun to see the entusiasm you have for the art!
A really obvious one to me was the reasons for the straight balde over a curved blade. A huge amount of Japanese martial arts and even Asian martial arts are based around a cutting strike which favours a curved edge. This is largely due to the armours of the time being hide, padded, and hardened leather. In Europe however where iron was much more available, chain mail and even various forms of plate were available that would easily deflect such attacks. Also the use of shields were far more prevalent here. Due to this a thrusting or piercing strike became far more valuable thus the straight blades with a very sharp point. You see this a lot in daggers when comparing Asian and European styles.
I talked to a guy who fights HEMA and he said that the side ring on a long sword is prohibited, among other things, because it is dangerous, because the opponent's blade can enter this ring and is guided exactly into your hand. What should I think about it? I think it would be possible to place a sheet of metal in this place to prevent such an accident, but is it really a real threat?
Many tournaments don't allow them, but for different reasons. One is that they are an unfair advantage. Another is that they are a later design that most longsword sources (actually that's no really correct) and yes some people cite the safety reasons.
Its just marketing , nothing more. Cause european sword highly associated with cross guard they use it. Landsknecht swords of 16c got round guard but nobody cares:)))
@@scholagladiatoria You see, I found this safety argument weak, because if this danger is true, then real 16th swords should have protection against it. I've seen such "protection" on a sword in a museum, but it's rare. So I guess our ancestors didn't see it as a big threat.
@@scholagladiatoria A completely different matter: I recently talked to a guy who has a replica of an medieval firearm (hand cannon). We discussed the reason for placing such a small "cannon" on a very long stick. Our conclusion was that the idea was to keep this dangerous, potentially explosive weapon away from the face, but we also considered using it (once fired) as a long mace for close combat. What do you think about this? You have often emphasized that a rifle is not very good in hand-to-hand combat, but a long stick with a small metal cannon at the end - as a club?
I followed the thread from the original video. Great presentation. I love the comparison between the two weapons and swordsmanship styles. From my practice in Japanese swordsmanship, you're right in that attacks are made from the shoulder from the stance, Hasso no Kamae. Apparently, there was a fad or such of straighter katana with less sori at one point from swords smithed by Kotetsu and the variation of lengths, shapes and edge geometry of katana are as varied as longswords. It's great to see two masters displaying their craft. Excellent video!
This is an amazing response video. If it were possible to arrange between yourselves, I'd love to see you and Seki Sensei discuss the strengths and weaknesses of Western/Eastern swords and styles together. I know both of you would be respectful to each other and most likely come away from it with further knowledge.
Fantastic video! Loved seeing the demonstrations of dofferent fighting styles. I love the sword, and even more so the versatility of combat maneuvers thet can be accomplished with just a traditional long sword. I actually saw sekis video first, and was absolutely amazed out how talented he is. The fact he picked up the sword, and started using it correctly strategically within such a short period shows he's ACTUALLY a master of the blade, and not just katanas. Absolutely astonishing. Thank you for the different demonstrations of guard techniques!
![[#2024MAMA] G-DRAGON - 무제(Untitled, 2014)+POWER+HOME SWEET HOME+뱅뱅뱅+FANTASTIC BABY | Mnet 241123 방송](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Ox29z5Nf1Uk/mqdefault.jpg)
Apologies for the poor audio on this video due to the placement of the mic. I tried to improve it unsuccessfully!
with my potato sound system, i never notice these things
You worry too much. If anyone complains about it they need a life.
@@bigguy7353 i mean, if he didnt address it, the internet would be FURIOUS
It would be so cool if you could invite Seki Sensei to england to make videos and try different swords together? Maybe even friendly sparring? 👏🏻 😃 🥋 ⚔️
@@idleeidolon I thought I did address this, but maybe I can say more in a future video 😁
this is the cool part of the internet age. We can get 2 masters that would have never met, discussing pros/cons of differing styles and swords, with the possibly of meeting to play around
Absolutely! Love the video reaction conversation taking place. Hope it continues and maybe leads to collaboration!
And, you can see how excited he is to as well.
@@markgouthro7375 THIS IS WHAT I WANT 🥰
And in the matter of hours or days rather than months
Collab now pls!!!
This is the kind of European/Japanese sword comparison I like, respectful, realistic, mutually educational.
I know who you're referring to 👀
@@tiberiuscodius5828 Honestly, I’m referring to like 90% of discussions on this topic.
Lmao, the anti-weeb katana haters are almost as annoying as the weeb samurai worshippers.
@@FeiFongWang, agreed. I’m a huge katana guy since I practice Iaido, but I have love for all swords styles.
And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. -John 3:16
Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.
- Acts 3:19
If are in North America, please go check out any of the churches available to you: PCA, OPC, Rpcna/Rpc, Urcna, or a canrc church
(These are conservative and actual Presbyterian churches)
If you can’t find one of the conservative presby churches then, maybe a Lcms or Wels Lutheran church.
If you are Scottish, I recommend the Free Church of Scotland and the APC
(Different from the Church of Scotland)
If you are English I recommend the Free Church of England.
(Different from the Church of England)
Online you can look up church finders for each of the groups and it will show you locations
:)
It was fun to see how Seki Sensei came to the same conclusions and his big smile throughout
A child with a new toy, right? 😊
Such joy in the man.
He is a swordsman through and through.
He really seemed like a kid in a candy store.
I would love to see Sensei sparing someone with Polish sabre and trying Polish sabre.
Imagine if Europe had taken as good care of its traditional martial arts and we still had people like him who had an unbroken lineage of passing these down.
German
That would have been amazing but I think Japan had some additional circumstances that enabled them to maintain traditions. Mainly the self imposed isolation period from 1603 to 1868 slowed down the speed of progress significantly and came at a perfect time to conserve blade based martial arts.
@@brittakriep2938 Academic fencing?
France did with fencing, but it's still not really the same
@@atom8248 : German, Austrian and Swiss students , some conservative traditional ones , still do , Accademic Fencing ', which is seen as last relict of german fencing Tradition. It has its roots in duels, but today only the partly sharpened swords the fact that Sekundanten/ seconders(?)watch the , Mensur ', and that a medical doctor must be there, remembers the former duel. That is what i know, can be wrong.
Thank you so much for this reaction video!
I train with Seki Sensei's online class and we were all really excited to see what he discovered picking up the longsword!
The katana vs longsword debate will forever rage in the sword community, but it's really great to see very experienced practitioners of different sword forms collaborating and discovering together.
So thank you again! It was very informative, and I hope that this continues into several back and forth videos of discovery!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Let’s send Matt to Japan and see them share techniques!
Would love matt to show him how a rapier is used. Guessing that would be a lot more different to a katana than a longsword is.
@@lilbaz8073 this would be interesting
Eh, with WW3 seemingly ramping up, I'd say we put guys like him in a bunker somewhere, so that the emerging populace doesn't have to pass the stone age.
Would love to see them both fight against Godzilla. 🦖
I'm sure there's a law in japan where it's illegal to bring it foreign swords. That said, perhaps feders and other training swords are probably exempt from this.
I think you really need to do a "How would a knight use a katana" video. I bet that would make Seki's day
I think Jason Kingsley (or Ian LaSpina of KnyghtErrant) would be ideally placed to do that video! Not that Matt isn't knightly in his ways and abilities, and perhaps it's just me, but when I hear knight, those are the go-to names for me.
Need a guest who for some reason has never used a katana.
Same thing for a samurai with a long sword (one handed).
unlike Seki I believe Matt has some knowledge on how to use a Katana though, so it wouldn't be as natural
lol reminds me of the time i zwerchau on instinct when a guy in kenjitsu class attacked before i knew that the fight has started. ngl there are many same things u can do in hema and kenjitsu but there are quite a number of things you would want to do differently. its not that one technique is superior to another, its that 1 technique is better for a certain sword design. a reason y i love to fight with a kriegs messer is cause i get to use both kenjitsu and hema techniques with both, creating a heretical get sometimes effecttive blend
I hope Seki-sensei and Shogo do a reaction to this as a follow up. I love content like this, especially the respect shown to each other from one acknowledging their lack in knowledge while another acknowledging the humility and sharing their knowledge. I wish more content creators did this.
And you will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. -Jeremiah 29:13
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish, but have eternal life. -John 3:16
Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out.
- Acts 3:19
If are in North America, please go check out any of the churches available to you: PCA, OPC, Rpcna/Rpc, Urcna, or a canrc church
(These are conservative and actual Presbyterian churches)
If you can’t find one of the conservative presby churches then, maybe a Lcms or Wels Lutheran church.
If you are Scottish, I recommend the Free Church of Scotland and the APC
(Different from the Church of Scotland)
If you are English I recommend the Free Church of England.
(Different from the Church of England)
Online you can look up church finders for each of the groups and it will show you locations
:)
This crossover was well overdue. You both have unmatched experience and willingness to learn more at the same time
"Willingness" might be an understatement. Matt seemed excited to learn, and Seki Sensei seemed thrilled like a kid in a candy store! It's a mark of a true professional - not above learning more about your field, even when you yourself are a master.
Now clearly the community needs a collab between Matt and Seki Sensei. Excellent content.
とても興味深い動画でした。
私は剣道と柔術をやっていますが、日本では西洋剣術について学べる機会は非常に限られているので、このような動画を制作してもらえると学べるものがあって楽しいです。
ありがとうございました。
I've seen a lot of comments similar to yours. Seeing katanas in the west isn't rare at all and I find It interesting and respectable that your nation is so proud of it's culture that it doesn't partake in others as much... it's unfortunate you don't have places to practice other arts however.
I just finished watching that video and he was extremely humble, but figured some things out very quickly. I liked how they asked for help to figure the cross guard out, plus other techniques. I really hope they get to watch your video Matt. I think it'll answer a lot of their queries. Another great reply video!
They also mentions very subtle things l wouldn’t have thought of myself like how binding feels different with a straight blade and that longsword seems less effective when parrying with side. Would like to hear more from them in the future
Seki Sensei had two videos where he talked about different weapons in his system, and I'd love you to share your thoughts. One was this very weird but interesting weapon that had a stopper at the bottom; keep the stopper in it was a mace, but pull the stopper it became a flail where you could shorten the chain as you will.
Love as always, Matt.
Yup; that's it right there!@@ericgoldman7533
I love seeing Matt so EXCITED. The information is always good, but in this one it's like he's welcoming a new friend into his home.
The combination of Seki Sensei's video and yours is one of the best things I've watched for a while. I hope that the two of you can collaborate!
Wow, thank you!
@@scholagladiatoriaIt really is wholesome. And also, seeing masters of their craft being humble, sharing and demonstrating de depth of their kniwledge and application, is very entertaining.
Hopedully you can do a "hiw a knight would use a Katana" and even maybe....fly to japan and exchange techniques with Seiki Sensei??
I second the leading comment. This was fantastic content.
Decades of experience training in various weapons and styles... and both turn into excited schoolboys discussing their shiny new/old favourite toys, while still educating each other and the audience. Wonderful stuff!
Imagine if Matt did a full on collaboration video with Shogo and Seki Sensei and they just spent the day teaching each other various things about longsword and katana techniques
🤝
I think the King should send Matt to Japan. As a gesture of collaboration in these troubled times.
Of course it will be highly entertaining and it will improve the work on the Tempest program, that Japan also joined, but these are just side effects.
The universe works in mysterious ways, because literally half an hour ago youtube recommended that video with the Japanese master using the longsword! 🌌👽
Same
More like the almighty TH-cam algorithm. 😅
The algorithm works in predictable ways.
@@arcturionblade1077 I'm a astronomer, so I prefer to go with the; the universe is toying with me hypothesis! 😁
Same here 😂👍
It's always neat to see intellectual curiosity win out over tradition and culture that might otherwise limit us.
Follow the principals without being bound by them, Bruce Lee.
@@aaftiyoDkcdicurak principles might be the word you are looking for.
A little biased here, but that's one of the beauty of Japanese culture, the pragmatic willingness to adapt to and absorb tools and traditions from different parts of the world. Seki Sensei's almost gleeful study of the long sword is truly a joy to watch, and it's great to see that he's almost spot on in his assessment of its strengths and some of its weaknesses (comparatively speaking). I'd second others in that I'd definitely love to see these two gentlemen sharing each other's techniques and tips on using both weapons.
@@HelloKamesan Thanks for sharing that insight. My own culture (United States) has gained incredible benefits from an openness to change and foreign ideas. It's been truly terrifying to watch the recent spike in xenophobia from so many of my countrymen precisely when we need to be more globally minded than ever!
@@philadeos well said!
I watched the sensei vid earlier this morning. You can tell thr experience of the man, respect, I mean,he grabbed the longsword and after a couple of swings anf moves,he could dance with it,fantastic!!! And Matt answering almost straightwayd makes that vif even better. Kudos.
Well said!
I love this. One master of a style showing grace and respect to another master of a different style, when crossing that cultural and martial threshold. Thanks for sharing, Matt!
Please do a collaboration video with Seki-Sensei. It's so refreshing to see people on both sides of this argument who are humble enough to be honest about their respective art and be respectful towards the other.
In this case, no one is arguing.😅 They both are experts in their respective types of swords/fighting style, discussing how to use the other's sword effectively.
@@KickyFut "...no one is arguing".
That's what makes this video refreshing to me.
I do my best to study and respect numerous martial arts disciplines. 90% of the HEMA content that comes across my feed is some self-proclaimed HEMA expert dissing on katanas for one reason or another. Goodness, I'll look up videos for Korean sword forms (I'm preparing to become an instructor for Korean sword), and somehow those videos show up in the results.
The apparently stereotyped lines that the makers of those videos mock us with (we get lumped in with them because Korean swords are very similar to Japanese swords) are things such as "my sword is made of the best tamahagane" among the most commonly (quoted?) line...except I've never heard anyone actually say that when advocating for katanas. They're probably all referencing the same video, which is likely some anime nerd who's never actually trained: the equivalent in our training community to the hipster/gamer kid who plays too much Skyrim.
This is probably the first HEMA video I've seen where he admits that both weapons, katana and long sword, were designed for different purposes and for use with different armor, overall equipment, and fighting styles. To me, it's like comparing the AK and the AR rifle platforms: they're both incredible weapons, but they were definitely designed for different purposes.
SekiSensai developing active offensive and defensive techniques on the fly was seriously impressive. Seeing him use the side of the blade to block without damaging the edge then following up by using the extra reach of the stabbing point? Impressive.
'Sword diplomacy' usually means something a little different, but this is a lovely vein of content and it's great to see Matt looking so happy and energised! =)
Point of balance (plus percussion points) and weight distribution and leverage might also be an important factor here: while possible, it is still uncomfortable to perform “out of line” strikes like Krumphau or Zwerchau. A katana tends to remain in line with the forearm when cutting but a longsword can get outside of that line (remember that video of Martin Fabian mentioning the Liechtenauer Helicopter of Death) and most importantly, the longsword fencing plays a lot with the binds, changing the aiming of the edge and turning the blade quite often, while the katana, for what I have seen and practice, doesn’t do it that often. An advantage that the katana has but the longsword has not is that there are plenty of ways to carry and unsheathe it, getting into action quickly and giving the swordsman many options for openings.
Also, notice how Seki sensei can feel the thumb grip even when he doesn’t even know that it is a thing. He is letting the sword tell him how to use it, and that in turn tells us a lot about his own skills as a swordsman. My respects.
Such a brilliant “answer “ to all of the questions that were raised over in Japan. Thank you, both channels, for sharing your insights, experience and honesty with us all. 😊👍😊
Regarding crossguards, I remember that a guide in Scotland told us that some soldiers took out the crossguards for that reason. He explained to us that when you need to draw your sword, the last thing you want is that it gets caught on the belt or other part of the clothing. He was a tour guide in some kind of palace in Scotland, that was build in the Napoleonic period .They were worried that the french reached there and they built this palace almost like a castle, with very thick walls and it was full of swords and armour everywhere.
Such an irony. I just saw Seki Sensei's longsword video yesterday, and my 1st experience with that channel. My first thought was, "I'd like to know what Matt Easton would say." I have 0 sword or martial arts experience, except the little that was taught in the US Army. However, I've watch a large number on your channel, so that's the reason I am glad, though ironic, you did a response.
I loved this response! the difference in the philosophy concerning binds was a major point I noticed in Seki-Sensei's appraisal, and I was happy to see you touch on that as well. I'd love to see more content like this. comparing and contrasting, but most importantly, understanding the commonality between cultures and techniques, is something I'm very intrigued by.
Most of what I said, you just said better. Much better.
About the only thing I would add, I think they missed is the two types of fighting.
Armoured versus unarmoured. I'd be interested to see how Shogo, Seki Sensei take to armoured fighting in a long sword. Rules of the long sword in armoured fighting. It's a very different style.
I wonder if they'd finger the guard, how the grappling would look. If they'd discover the murder stroke.
it was a joy to watch Seki Sensi's video. because you could visibly see his enjoyment in trying out something new, but it was also a great example how experience with swords and how the human body works with them crosses over, he was quickly using his experience to find out what worked and how they differed from what he's trained with. I would love to see a collaboration between both of you due to the amount of experience both parties have, even in the form of a discussion due to Seki Sensi being on the otherside of the world from Matt.
I’m not a big European sword guy but you’re so cool and respectful I had to subscribe
This is the most animated I've seen Matt in a while. And it's always good to see different traditions come together.
Sweet! I've watched a few of Seki Sensei's videos and his style of kenjutsu is very pragmatic. He also uses sickles and staff a lot. This was a great response video.
Humbleness and respect over martial arts and cultures makes cool things like this happen
Few people I would want to respond more than you, Matt! You always give very measured and mindful responses even when you ramble on.
Hopefully Shogo and Seki-sensei get to watch the video and talk a bit more about their thoughts. Would be lovely to hear more of their insights after they take in a bit more information of European Sword Styles.
I appreciate that!
I'm not even slightly interested in medieval nor japanes stuff but Matt is such a good and charismatic presenter that I've learned more than I want to know about this stuff. Keep it up!
THIS WAS SO COOL! I love when two masters from completely different backgrounds enjoy sharing and discussing the differences in their arts. We as general public get to learn a lot about stuff we would probably never imagine! Thank you so much 👏👏👏
You can really tell how estatic you are to share all this with seki sensei. Looking forward to seeing more HEMA x Kenjutsu content. Hopefully, this really takes off!
I would love to see Seki Sensei and Matt take a class with each other for a week and see what they can learn of each others styles. Both have years of experience under their belts and seeing two fine teachers share notes would be amazing.
So glad you got ahold of that video! I was dying to get your impression and praying you'll make a journey......for educational purposes
So much knowledge in these duo videos, wow. Thank you. This is so rare.
I'd LOVE for Seki-sensei to see this video. Such a fantastic exchange of martial knowledge going on right now.
Awesome video and an awesome response!
6:21
While he is right that later katana tended to be very straight (this can also be seen in bokken shape) I do think a caveat is needed for this image. Many familiar with European swords may have seen images that depict the development of European swords almost like a family tree with branches extending to other types of swords and showing the gradual change in sword design through the centuries.
The problem is that this image shown here does not show the same thing. I made the mistake of assuming this image definitively showed how Japanese swords progressed but one crucial detail that is missing is the shortening factor. On top of the fact that these are pictures of individual swords, many of them were shortened in the Edo period and the way they are currently doesn’t represent what they looked like originally. When I first saw this image I was left with the misconception that Japanese swords were always the same length throughout their history.
8:00
(Side note) Another trend during the Edo period was the prevalence of smaller guards. Muromachi era tsuba did tend to be larger. You probably wouldn’t be able to do the same technique with a longsword but it would be much more protective than the tsuba we have now.
9:46
I think a distinction should be made between a sword that is “spring tempered” and a swords that is made of “spring steel” particularly due to its point of failure. I think the term spring steel should be reserved for industrial era/modern swords as that is when it really began whereas swords have been spring tempered around the world for centuries. The real difference is that a sword can still be spring tempered and have a ferrite core meaning its point of failure will be much less demanding than the modern steel people think of when you say spring steel. I think calling period swords spring steel gives the wrong perception and makes people believe the steel back then is analogous to the steel used in reproductions today.
But those are all just nitpicks. Still, it was great getting his input and thoughts. This was a crossover I’ve been wanting for a while. It’d be cool if they could have a discussion but language barrier might get in the way
Thank you!
I recall seeing a rare unmodified early edo period tachi with an 90 cm blade and a 13cm tsuba once, which is pretty close to a longsword functionally I feel. The guard is a bit smaller than on a longsword but it wouldn't be bad protection at all considering it has good protection on the sides as well. A bit on the extreme end even for a battlefield tachi but still shows how different the older swords could be compared to later examples.
@@atom8248 Where did you see this sword?
Also while I do think a 13cm (I assume diameter) tsuba may seem on the larger side, a 90cm blade may not be so irregular for battlefield tachi. I am still researching a possible average for pre-Edo daito so I can’t say anything for certain but 90cm doesn’t seem so far out of reach for a typical sword of the period
@@outsideiskrrtinsideihurt699 search Inshu Kanasaki tachi. Interestingly it's mounted with katana fittings on the scabbard, so it's for inserting it into the sash. If I was to use it on the battlefield I would wear it in a sword hanging device for katana (forgot what they're called and there's many types but they basically work like the hangers for tachi). The length makes it hard to draw when you wear it so high.
I think it's bigger in general than most swords. Looking at tachi and katana that survived unaltered from pre or early edo it seems that 70-80cm seems to be the general range, and the tsuba is definitely a bit on the large side.
@@atom8248 nice find, I always love seeing swords that managed to evade shortening. Those katana fittings (specifically called handachi) would indeed imply it was meant to be worn in the belt. I think I get what you mean when referring to the frog device to suspend the sword from the hip (I forgot the name too) but there are 2 other ways it could’ve been worn in battle.
One way is that the samurai who owned it simply had a different mount (or maybe just a different saya with ashi sling mounts) made for the sword so it can be worn and drawn like a tachi. Another was it to simply wear it like a katana and draw it as is. Drawing a 35” blade is more difficult that way but with proper technique and practice, you can do it pretty effectively. I think Tenshin Ryu does this practice with their “Odachi”.
(I believe O-katana is a term more popular over here than over there incidentally, so they call swords longer than their standard 28in katana “Odachi” even though it doesn’t fit with our idea of Odachi length)
When it comes to the possible range of lengths pre-Edo daito could’ve had, you can’t just look at the ubu koto swords as they either were already compliant with the new laws or were close enough. What you also have to do is look at the suriage tangs and the O-suriage tangs and compar their frequencies to each other. From what I’ve seen so far, there are far far more suriage/O-suriage koto blades than there were ubu koto. Koto swords around that 28” range did exist but they were not common.
Especially when looking at O-suriage blades, you can’t be sure exactly how long the blade may have been before shortening. It could’ve only been a tangs-length longer or it could’ve previously been an Odachi. You also have to pay attention to forgeries, something often neglected. If a blade was shortened and the original signature was lost, someone at some point in history may have put a false mei on the tang. So just because you see a fraudulent, yet complete mei, it doesn’t mean it is automatically ubu. Determining a more precise average is incredibly difficult and I haven’t yet looked at outside accounts talking about their lengths.
I certainly don’t think pre-Edo daito were commonly 70-80cm like you say, but I will admit I can’t yet turn up any precise range. Although a large clue may be found in the account of Japan during the late 16th ce by Luis Frois. He was quite detailed and observant, taking notes and often exaggerating the difference he spotted. Yet despite his propensity to inflate some of the contrasts he saw, he never mentions anything on blade length which might tell us that he didn’t see them as being different enough to write about.
It would be awesome to see you and Seki Sennsei spar - each with the culturally appropriate sword.
I studied Japanese karate in the US for many years & then joined a karate club at a Japanese university I attended & it was incredibly interesting how different practice & practical application were, even though the forms were identical.
I loved how Seki Sensei appeared to accurately derive some moves from HEMA and use his experience with the katana to replicate other moves more common to both.
just watched the video that this one is in response to and i need to say thank u for answering him in such a kind and positive attitude :D
When I was watching Seki Sensei's video I was thinking "man, how awesome would be a response by Metatron or Matt Easton", well here we are! Thank you, Matt!
I just discovered both of these guys today and I’m glad I did. This was a great response to Seki Sensei’s video. A lot of fun to watch them both. I hope they collaborate in the future!
I love to see experts of different but still similar arts have a open and respectful discourse about the arts.
Something that is missing very much in our current society.
explained perfectly as always.
this is what the Internet should be about and how people from all over the world should interact: with respect, joy of sharing information and learning some new knowledge from other cultures.
I know it might be a trivial topic for most, I think this is a great example of what all humanity could be! thank you for this awesome video
Well said!
So glad you did a video on this, was literally just watching the video and seeing some of the mistakes and wondering what you'd think of it! 😂
Yeah when he lifted the sword all the way up and the cross guard got in the way I was just thinking how open he was. But a katana is an all or nothing blade.
Great response. Very informative.
Also, I want to point out that you know a true professional by how they address those from "outside" their tradition. Instead of talking down to/belittling someone from a different discipline, there is respect shown for the knowledge and expertise of another martial artist. Well done.
I just saw Shogo and Seki Sensei video on the long sword and wanted to see a HEMA expert response. Awesome timing!
Just found my way here. Mad respect for a reaction video done right. No theft. Only additional knowledge. Cheers!
I hope @letsasksekisensei sees this. I would love to see some collaboration between the two of you, though I'm not sure if language barriers would be a problem. Seki Sensei seemed to really enjoy his first experience using a longsword, and I'm guessing he would also enjoy learning about HEMA. What other weapons in HEMA do you think he might be interested in learning about the proper use of? Polearms? Zweihanders and greatswords? Maces and other blunt weapons? Different kinds of single-handed swords and axes, perhaps paired with different kinds of shields?
I really enjoy seeing different cultures interact in this way.
It's so cool seeing experts getting so excited by the intricacies of each others arts. The energy of Seki Sensei's excitement using the longsword and your excitement replying is intoxicatingly infectious.
love the doublet Matt, the buttons on the side are great
It was really great hearing two experts in their martial arts discussing this topic! Really interesting to watch and listen to.
You and Seki-sensei need to have a discussion about the similarities and differences of HEMA and Kenjutsu and learn from each other. please make it happen
So cool. I’ve been following Shogo for some time and watched the video earlier. Super pumped to see your comments!
Both you and the japanese sensei are brilliant. Us average guys and gals could only hope to glean a tiny bit of wisdom and technique from such masters. Thank you so much.
Awesome response .. I just watched the original video earlier today. I hope they see your response. I am intrigued by the cultural exchange here.
I hope so too!
i love that you made this video, i saw shogo's video just yesterday and it was fascinating
Would absolutely love to see a collaboration between you and Seki Sensei at some point, either a discussion, or possibly even an in-person demonstration of techniques and how they compare and/or “sparring” match with the two similar weapons as a means of demonstrating their similarities, differences, and addressing in a practical/tactile way the question that’s generally only addressed in theory: how would katana and longsword masters/experts deal with each other’s techniques and weapons in a duel?
Never dawned on me to thrust with the zweihander. Nor would I have “believed” how easily done it would be had you not held it out. Super cool.
These two videos as a set are great. Now I'm waiting for Shogu's reaction to your reaction. I think the three of you should make a set of videos together. I'm sure Seki sensei would welcome the opportunity.
Awesome to see your take on the video with Seki Sensai & Shogo, watched it the other day and didn't expect you to react to it... ❤
Glad you enjoyed it
It was a very refreshing video. I enjoyed how it wasn’t a katana vs long sword debate but rather an appreciation of each weapons strengths and the differences between them.
I _really_ want to see Seki Sensei try a (slightly curved) Kriegsmesser/Grossmesser, because I have absolutely no doubt that after a few hours with it, he'd be a _freaking beast,_ using basically every technique he know and probably recreating a few more that are known in HEMA but impractical with a katana
11:42 One thing you don't mention, here, is that the false edge cut _can_ have slightly longer range, due to the mechanics and angles involved.
I watched the original video because youtube pushed it at me, and I'm SUPER happy that someone who knows a thing or two was able to respond on the longsword! SUPER cool!
I would live to see you and Seki Sensei spend two weeks togeather training with each other. The video would be amazing.
Fantastic ❤ a very kind and friendly video in an answer to Seki Sensei 's video. His and Shogo-san's . I really enjoy this video. I'm definitely following it as both a martial artist, weapons collector, and Fencing enthusiast ( thanks to my father who was in the military and led me to this path ) I enjoyed this video and you got yourself a follower from America. ❤
あー、こないだの関先生のに答えたのか！英語でTH-camやるとこういうリスポンスが来るんですね〜素晴らしいと思います😊✨✨✨
お二人が会って立ち会うとさらに面白そうですね。いつか実現することを願います🤲
What a great reply Matt! I enjoyed Seki Sensei's video and I thought your response was so informative! I hope more of our channels collab like this more often.
I've done both Japanese and European sword martial arts over many years now and have put those skills to use in both forms / styles although i will say that Kendo tournament combat won't allow for euro sword techniques to be used as its a very formalised style just like fencing is. In Kendo, if you're successful with a strike but don't use correct form, you'll not score the point, but in HEMA if you use a japanese styled strike successfully you'll generally score the point. I've given weapons / sword displays many times over the years and I've found that combatants doing only Japanese sword arts get easily bamboozled and become hesitant when they're up against an opponent with a longsword, especially when it comes to thrusting. If I'm using a sword and shield, this is even more confusing to them, which ultimately gave me the distinct advantage.
I mean no disrespect to any style of sword martial art for they're products of their time and place and therefore are relevant. I enjoy the katana just as much as I do the longsword as well as sword and shield. The fact that I know many styles in the end helps me hone my craft and skills.
I got the idea of learning different forms / styles from one of the greatest martial artists of all time who practised this same philosophy and excelled - the great Bruce Lee ( **bows in respect** ). His Tao of Jeet Kune Do (the way of the intercepting fist) elaborates this very philosophy. Learn as much as you can, and use well what works for you. Master Lee was well known to try many arts from boxing to fencing to kung Fu and even dancing, which gave him exceptional reflexes and resilience. Using this philosophy towards my sword arts training has made it very enjoyable for me over the years.
Thankyou Matt for your vids, I've been a fan a long time now, and some of your advice has helped me in my own journey re Sword Arts.
Also, thank you to Shogo, and let's ask Sensei.
Seeing a master of their craft, no matter the discipline, is always a great experience.
That's because kendo is a sport and not a fight. In the same way that olympic fencing is very restricted. You aren't even allowed to move sideways, and you don't get a point if you stab your opponent while you're moving backwards. You only get a point if you're the "aggressor" as decided by the panel of judges.
Japan for the past couple hundred years (or longer) has very much been focusing on either the sports part of sword fighting or the ART in "martial arts". The sports guys are very good within the rules limitations of their sport but will have weaknesses outside of that. The guys who focus on the art like the different schools of kenjutsu very rarely test how their techniques work in combat or against resisting opponents. Most schools of kenjutsu don't do any sparring. Japan doesn't really have any major movements equivalent to the HEMA, (there are small groups which focus on historical fighting but they're isolated) so if you go looking for somebody to teach you fighting with weapons, it's either focused on a sport or replicating techniques passed down generations without practising them in combat.
Unless your opponent has 3 arms or 4 legs it's all the same style, Bruce Lee.
@killerkonnat I thought I'd covered this in short form text by saying, "Kendo is very formalised just like fencing," but ty for your in-depth elaboration ;)
THANK YOU Matt!! The respectful conversation between west and east makes my heart happy. Peace to you!
I wonder how many people thought that because he's a katana user he'd know absolutely nothing about other swords.
I think people underestimate that people in history aren’t stupid. Soldiers in modern times can use a different country’s rifles, which are more different than two swords.
I had forgotten over the past couple years, how much I love your work. I apologize for having forgot you. Life is....... well life. So happy to have seen you again here, and now.
I wish there was a school of swordsmanship that unified the practices based on our time, and the similarities the whole world seemed to share between periods.
Great video as always, Mr. Easton.
I love it personally, but I readily admit it's an almost useless skill.
@bigguy7353 Depends on what use you're looking to get out of it. Self defense? 🤣 ... But the simple act of training (not just kenjutsu/Iaido but any physical art) does a lot for cognitive and metal health, as well as physical of course. It can help develop discipline, strength, courage... and if trained properly, an acceptance of mortality and spiritual growth.
So I disagree with it being useless. Even though there's a higher chance of pigs flying than having to duel someone for your life with swords, even for self defense it would help you pick up a stick and be more effective lol....
@@wakingbear2778 what's the point on learn how to use a sword if you want to use a stick in real life? just learn how to use a stick
@@vonakakkola That's true... I think you missed my point, but you're correct
@@wakingbear2778 I train to control my violence. I've experienced domestic gun violence with mum catching a bullet (it went through a wall, the real reason). I'm accountable for my swings, but not much more. And they still do their job, but the real "study" comes from the collective mind of humanity 👍👍👍
Thanks for responding to Let's Ask Seki Sensei's video. I casually wondered about this sort of thing for years and I really enjoyed both video.
Our pleasure!
I thought it was a cool video and seems like one style of sword expert could pick up another type of sword and be pretty proficient
Oh, it's SO cool to see this. I've watched Ask Shogo for years before he even set up Seki sensei's channel, never would have expected to see him referenced on Matt's channel.
That last technique of switching side to side like a washing machine is what convinced me that longsword was an important weapon, I was used to using a katana and I visited a training group that used longsword. I got quite the surprise a number of times but this was a technique that knocked me senseless and with a not a lot of force either.
I really hope Shogo and Seki Sensei see this, in fact it would be awesome for both Matt and the Ask Shogo team to meet and do a skills swap. Two groups of equal stature with enough humility to really shine in the sharing of ideas.
It was so nice to see Sensei take a look at a western blade. Something I thought was cool was to see how much he enjoyed the fact that the pommel could be used to retain the sword quickly upon throwing it forward. I may be wrong, but I believe that the goal of all martial art is to end the conflict as fast as possible, and by having a trick shot to throw the sword forward quickly, like drawing a pistol, if you're accurate, you may end the contest immediately. Something else I noticed, at the end of the video, was that they mentioned how you tend to touch blades more often in Japanese martial art OVER western forms, and not too sure what they meant by that, but it seems Sensei was of the opinion that to fight with the broadsword it would be better to not get locked into a wrestling match with the opponent as the blade can easily manuever or counter such an attack.
Shin to of katana tends to be fairly straight, matching the practice of kendo at the time. Much more spearing and stabbing technique is used with a straighter blade. This is like going back into some historical fencing, as Japanese swords started as Chinese straight sword profile and it is common practice to jab, stab and spear a lot with straight blade.
Hi Matt having no experience with sword fighting in geral I found the video of the katana master trying to use the long sword absolutely fascinating as you andhe said about no clue how to use it what was so amazing was how quickly he adapted what he knew and techniques he was used to to a completely different weapon and it also showed why he is a master and so greatly respected and also by the respect you showed him also kind regards nick tovey
awww you sniped me
You still count as first!
@@scholagladiatoria No, I mean on making a video response, I was gonna try and bait them into a video call to talk about longsword use. I'm with MSS over in Canada XD
I just watched that video earlier and thought it was really interesting and it would be nice to see you respond and here you did! Awesome!
Really good response video too and as always very fun to see the entusiasm you have for the art!
A really obvious one to me was the reasons for the straight balde over a curved blade. A huge amount of Japanese martial arts and even Asian martial arts are based around a cutting strike which favours a curved edge. This is largely due to the armours of the time being hide, padded, and hardened leather. In Europe however where iron was much more available, chain mail and even various forms of plate were available that would easily deflect such attacks. Also the use of shields were far more prevalent here. Due to this a thrusting or piercing strike became far more valuable thus the straight blades with a very sharp point. You see this a lot in daggers when comparing Asian and European styles.
How exciting to see this response video pop up & give contextual answers to the questions raised by Seki Sensei; I was curious too!
I talked to a guy who fights HEMA and he said that the side ring on a long sword is prohibited, among other things, because it is dangerous, because the opponent's blade can enter this ring and is guided exactly into your hand. What should I think about it? I think it would be possible to place a sheet of metal in this place to prevent such an accident, but is it really a real threat?
Many tournaments don't allow them, but for different reasons. One is that they are an unfair advantage. Another is that they are a later design that most longsword sources (actually that's no really correct) and yes some people cite the safety reasons.
Its just marketing , nothing more. Cause european sword highly associated with cross guard they use it.
Landsknecht swords of 16c got round guard but nobody cares:)))
@@scholagladiatoria You see, I found this safety argument weak, because if this danger is true, then real 16th swords should have protection against it. I've seen such "protection" on a sword in a museum, but it's rare. So I guess our ancestors didn't see it as a big threat.
@@scholagladiatoria A completely different matter: I recently talked to a guy who has a replica of an medieval firearm (hand cannon). We discussed the reason for placing such a small "cannon" on a very long stick. Our conclusion was that the idea was to keep this dangerous, potentially explosive weapon away from the face, but we also considered using it (once fired) as a long mace for close combat. What do you think about this? You have often emphasized that a rifle is not very good in hand-to-hand combat, but a long stick with a small metal cannon at the end - as a club?
Wonderful, respectful, educational reply. Thank you so much for the great content.
I followed the thread from the original video. Great presentation. I love the comparison between the two weapons and swordsmanship styles. From my practice in Japanese swordsmanship, you're right in that attacks are made from the shoulder from the stance, Hasso no Kamae. Apparently, there was a fad or such of straighter katana with less sori at one point from swords smithed by Kotetsu and the variation of lengths, shapes and edge geometry of katana are as varied as longswords. It's great to see two masters displaying their craft. Excellent video!
The cheerful, respectful geeking out in this is beautiful. Screw the katana vs longsword hate, I want more of this!
I love both of these channels so much and I just tickled to death that this video is happening.
This is an amazing response video. If it were possible to arrange between yourselves, I'd love to see you and Seki Sensei discuss the strengths and weaknesses of Western/Eastern swords and styles together. I know both of you would be respectful to each other and most likely come away from it with further knowledge.
Maybe one day!
Fantastic video! Loved seeing the demonstrations of dofferent fighting styles. I love the sword, and even more so the versatility of combat maneuvers thet can be accomplished with just a traditional long sword.
I actually saw sekis video first, and was absolutely amazed out how talented he is. The fact he picked up the sword, and started using it correctly strategically within such a short period shows he's ACTUALLY a master of the blade, and not just katanas. Absolutely astonishing.
Thank you for the different demonstrations of guard techniques!
Really interesting respond. Hope they will see it and retry it haha. Love to see that ! Really cool stuff here !!!