⚔Join the Online Kobudo Training with Seki Sensei⚔ Sign Up HERE (One Lesson FREE): www.patreon.com/lets_ask_sekisensei Interested in taking lessons directly from the 22nd headmaster of Kobudo Asayama Ichiden Ryu, Seki sensei? Sign up to learn authentic samurai skills with 400 years of history with perfect English interpretation from Let’s ask Shogo (ruclips.net/user/LetsaskShogoYourJapanesefriendinKyoto). ❶ No previous martial arts experience is required; you can catch up anytime ❷ Every lesson will be RECORDED and will be available to rewatch anytime ❸ You can ask Seki Sensei questions about the techniques and samurai culture/history ❹ You can join even if you belong to another Ryuha style ❺ You can receive OFFICIAL DAN RANKS by taking exams online (and opening a DOJO in the future) 🛍Purchase the Equipment You Need for Training: tozandoshop.com/letsaskshogo🛍 🗡Iaitō (training katana): tozandoshop.com/collections/habahiro-heavy-weight-iaito/products/byakko-tenryu-semi-custom-iaito?variant=34479502164101 *🗡Bokutō (wooden katana) with plastic Saya (scabbard): tozandoshop.com/collections/iaido-bokuto/products/the-nyumon-iaido-beginners-set 🥋Dōgi and Hakama: tozandoshop.com/collections/kendo-uniform-sets/products/basic-synthetic-kendo-uniform-set-1?variant=39417538216069 🥋Inner Obi (any color): tozandoshop.com/collections/iaido-obi/products/cotton-kaku-obi?variant=34282096230533 🥋Outer Obi (must be WHITE): tozandoshop.com/collections/aikido-obi/products/white-aikido-obi?variant=34120442413189 🦯Short Jō staff: tozandoshop.com/collections/polearms/products/4-21-shaku-jo?variant=39604823195781 🦯Long Jō staff: tozandoshop.com/collections/polearms/products/5-shaku-bo?variant=34073586106501 🧐Frequently Asked Questions About Our Online Lessons: Q❓: I have no experience with katana. Will I still be able to catch up? A💡: You don’t need any previous katana martial arts experience to participate in our lessons. Seki Sensei, the instructor of the online lessons, will carefully give you instructions on how to handle the katana regardless of your level. You will also be able to access all the videos of the past lessons, so you can watch what every other student has learned in the past. You can also send us videos of your progress, and Seki Sensei will be happy to give you feedback. Q❓: What is the right length of the Iaito (zinc alloy training katana) I should use? A💡: Please purchase an Iaitō that is at least two blocks longer than the standard length. The standard length for Seki Sensei is about 177cm, so he should use a 2.45 Shaku long katana. However, he uses a 2.6 Shaku-long katana that is supposed to be used by someone 190cm tall. If the katana is too short, it becomes too easy to draw, which is not good for training. Q❓: Can I join even if I belong to a different Ryuha style? A💡: Yes, it’s not a problem at all. The Seki Sensei himself has trained in more than five styles and various other weapons. If you don’t want others to know that you are participating, you can join the online lessons with your camera off. To have the Sensei check your progress, you can send us a video of you practicing. 🗡Join the Online Iaido Training with Seki Sensei🗡 Sign Up Here (One Lesson FREE): www.patreon.com/sekisenseiiaidotraining Interested in taking Iaido lessons directly from the 8th Dan Iaido Master with 40 years of experience in Musō Shinden Ryu, Seki sensei? Sign up to learn authentic samurai skills with perfect English interpretation from Let’s ask Shogo. ❶ No previous martial arts experience is required; you can catch up anytime ❷ Every lesson will be RECORDED and will be available to rewatch anytime ❸ You can ask Seki Sensei questions about the techniques and samurai culture/history ❹ You can join even if you belong to another Ryuha style 💻Seki Sensei's Official Website💻 sekisensei.com/ 🎵Original Opening Theme Song "Hyakuren"🎵 Performance: Hanafugetsu (Singer/Suzuhana Yuko, Shakuhachi/Kaminaga Daisuke, Koto/Ibukuro Kiyoshi) Compositions & Arrangements: Suzuhana Yuko Mixing & Mastering: Watabiki Yuta ❓What is Asayama Ichiden Ryu? / Who is Seki sensei?❓ ruclips.net/video/2aBKmWmJpJw/видео.html 📱Instagram📱 instagram.com/lets_ask_sekisensei/ *Please ask us questions through the DM here ♪Music♪ elements.envato.com/audio otowabi.com/category/material/japan #katana #iaido #kenjutsu #kobudo #asayamaichidenryu
The so called "reverse grip" on the tanto is called the icepick grip for western daggers and short weapons. For the same reason it is effective with the tanto: stabbing and hooking motions. It's like you're using an icepick to break a block of ice.
No! The difference is the position of your thumb if u place u thumb on the bottom of the handle its an ice pick grip, for more stability and a better thrusting ability. If u use a reverse grip u thumb is on the side of the handle, so it's much easier to switch back to your regular position. A lot of people get confused by these. Hope u all have a nice week. :3
@@tsuukimarunakayama9055 that only applies depending on the length of the handle of the weapon. Look at most icepick grips in HEMA. There is no such specification on thumb placement.
@@idleeidolon I would love to see somebody try to place their thumb on the bottom of a rondel dagger's handle lol. Gotta love how the "experts" crawl out of the woodwork in the comment sections of all weapon demonstration videos.
Semantics? Ice pick is still a reverse grip, because you have to hold an ice pick this way to use it. Besides that, the knife, dagger, sword, is a blade and not an ice pick. Who would've guessed?
The use that Europeans or occupation that requires the breaking of ice does not define something for the rest of the world. HEMA is not the origin of all things.
I see the practicality of the “close distance problem” often in the instances of the opponent using a knife/tanto and the defendant needing to use these techniques with their sword. My master once said “in the chaos of battle its best to have trained everything and know your weapon from every inch and angle”
That applies not only to weapons but fighting styles. Take for example boxing: even though modern boxing only has punching attacks, a boxer that has trained how to use his boxing against other fighting styles will do better than a Karateka tgat has only practiced against other Karatekas
Better advice: "In the Maelstrom of Battle, it is best to do your fighting from a great distance." There's not a sword style on the planet that can beat me from 20 yards with a Glock.
@@Sue_Me_Too Except only applies traveling within the US. Out of state is a little different story. Then again, the odds of needing swordsmanship only means that either you are a very unlucky 0.001% person or a fool looking for a fight. Boxing and Jujitsu probably all you need I guess.
@@jestfullgremblim8002 boxing is more than just throwing punches. It's all about endurance, techniques and proper breathing and not using all your energy and strength since not everyones gonna knock out on the first fight.
I do appreciate that you asked about scenarios in which the sword is already drawn. While I do love HEMA as well, I am rather annoyed that they tend to look at combat in a vacuum that does not address how and when fights break out. They just act like every scuffle starts like a duel at 20 paces.
HEMA does that, because duels was the most common situation where you would use a sword outside of battle. This is why the concept of iai doesn't really exist in HEMA, because it was way more focused on judicial duels.
Culture and context The things people do in war is different than what they do in a lord's court. And as others have said, judicial duels were a thing. Considering that most swords were generally considered as sidearms to a war dedicated weapon, most of these sword on sword duels were judicial, or the sword was already drawn as a sidearm because the primary weapon of war was not available or unapplicable. Beyond this, it seems like the Eastern use of the reverse grip is just a way of buying yourself time to return to a normal grip.
Maybe you haven't heard? Different culture and techniques. HEMA is basically duels. Some of these techniques can be viable if done correctly and implemented into proper actions.
6:08 Golden rule of historical fencing: if it wasn't done, it was most likely impractical or unnecessary; people back then knew way more about fencing than we do now, so we should always look back and consider their opinions. There's no techniques in HEMA either (that i know of) where the reverse grip is used over the normal grip for the entire duration of a duel and outside of very specific techniques
Exactly. Historical in pretty much all styles including eastern. Theres no evidence of it being used. Just because someone teaches it doesnt mean its legit.
Spot on. All anyone has been asking for is live sparring effectiveness to prove it works. Not this 'Heres a guy that teaches it and maybe it could be used for this'
If you pull off that iai technique from the video, then you've basically used reverse grip for pretty much the entire duration of a duel. It was just a very short duel.
How come people from the past knew more about fencing than we do now? Did they have proper protection, and actually use it, to test all techniques at full speed? Did they have high-speed cameras to examine every minute detail of their technics? Did they have today's knowledge of biology or physics? No, they didn't. Nowadays we don't encounter situations where we have to fight with swords, but we do study it and we develop new technics. We create new equipment like a Belgian "pistol" grip that is far better than the standard one. People from the past had a better understanding and experience of fighting where you could be injured or killed but this is another topic. And yes, the reverse grip is garbage :P
i know he's a master but still seeing the amount of katas sensei has memorized with different weapons and for different scenarios is just mindblowing especially when you consider the details like flipping the saya sheathe and probably lots more we don't even notice 🤯
Reverse grip absolutely does suck in general, BUT it is very important to observe the ways in which reverse grip is being used here and understand the specific reasoning and situational context for why these techniques exist. As stated in the video, the reverse grip is only used for iai, and it is explained that the context is when the opponent is too close (which can occur for a number of reasons). If your sword is already out, reverse grip offers no advantages, and we can see that this ryu recognizes that by not having any non-iai reverse grip techniques (as stated by Seki-sensei). Also, notice how the reverse grip iai techniques are applying the one and only cut that reverse grip can do better than normal grip, which is the inverse "down to up" vertical cut. This is a very situational cut, but in the situations shown, it becomes something extremely tricky for the opponent to deal with. On top of that, notice how the kata takes into account the changing distance; for example, in the basic skill draw, the reverse grip is used just for iai, representing the close range condition, and then a standard grip is immediately adopted to perform the final "killing" cut. The fact that this detail exists is extremely significant. In fact, all the small details shown have meaning - I don't feel like writing a full essay, but I would encourage any watcher to re-watch everything and pick one part of Seki-sensei to focus on (for example, the feet). When you watch what he does and think about how each movement connects to the rest, you will start to get a glimpse of the 400 year history behind this martial art in a way that even a history book couldn't explain. I came into this video rather skeptical, because people who think reverse grip "works" are generally untrained and unskilled individuals, but the details shown through the kata here are demonstrative of an extremely well-developed martial art and are indicative of the full and complete legitimacy of this style and its techniques. I made this comment because I hope that other people might understand the true significance of the small details demonstrated here - this is the real deal, no doubt about it. As for the tanto, reverse grip techniques are well known to exist in styles across the world for knife-length weapons, and reverse grip is fully legitimate and practical for such a weapon, so no issues there.
Thank you for articulating that so well and saving me 15 mins. I'm glad I found this channel, and hope all of the truly observant warriors out there find it as well. And hopefully people who already follow know the significance of the intuitiveness of this style. I have over a decade of martial arts experience and started training my swordsmanship just a few months ago, not finding this channel for the first month, and when I did stumble across it...I was basically already practicing it😂 Seki Sensei has very high kinetic intelligence built up over decades of experience, and truly moves like a master. He has my deepest respect.
actually in his long sword reverse grip he did a dual cut the first reverse the second standard grip cut for extra measure the first reverse cut is pretty much the fatal cut since it's range is from lower torso to upper torso 3:58 5:23 9:27.🤔🤨🧐
A true master can wield his sword however he chooses and be effective. I practice a technique that in fact gives me more reach as well as the ability to evade simultaneously. It's probably why you see it used with the tanto due to its lack of reach. Don't limit yourself to other people's ideas.
As a westerner with a keen interest in Japanese weapons, armor, and martial techniques, Seki Sensei is amazing. Not only because of his expertise, but his willingness to show us these techniques. There are no Japanese weapon-based schools near me, some of what others have online is clearly nonsensical, some is very gate-kept in the "we teach you in private and you can never teach anyone else" secret lineage. This is an excellent video to dispel the myth of "never reverse grip, you mall ninja".
I've been seeing a lot of shorts from that one guy who practice western sword fighting (not sure if it is fencing or HEMA). He's been constantly shitting on reverse grip, to which I agree its ineffectiveness and overrepresentation in anime and shows. This video really clarifies WHEN it is used for longer swords, which is essentially helps with unsheathing at close quarter. Reverse grip for daggers are for dodging next to the enemy while attacking and hooking. Lastly, I just LOVE how clean Seki sensei does every move. So relaxed but so fast at the same time.
I love how smooth his technique is. That left handed draw looks like something Duncan Macleod would do in The Highlander. I really wish I could afford to do Seki Sensei's weekly video lessons 😞
I've always said that reverse grip with swords is something that I might do in specific situations, but it's not a grip I'm going to try to use for an entire fight. The problem with talking about reverse grip being effective or not is that some people have this image that ONLY using reverse grip is badass and effective, when it's really more of just a situational thing where it can be an option under some specific circumstances.
PRetty much, and then we have some foolish skeptics that want to prove that reverse grip is bad, and test it on normal situations, completely ignoring why the damn thing exists. And then they come here complain about lack of range. Of course you'll have problems when you use a technique wrongfully.
I've never scene any demonstration of effectiveness of reverse-grip without involving surprises/trickery. So yeah definitely a thing for assassination, not so much for 1-on-1 duel in open field.
Yeah it is situational at best.... But it isnt usless, if you are up close to a target and cant back up using the end of the hilt or crossgard to hit them in the face would be a good example. Or you are stuck between two people and dont have time to move down fully to block flipping your sword backwards and chaeging in to knock them down and stabbing them, other than that and pure down ward thrusts while you on the ground and slight cuts when dodging it doesnt have much use, its more of a reactive defense than anything, its somewhat like half swording aswell, just less effective. But half swording does pretty much every reverse grip can do. And more.
@@bloody4558 I think you're missing the context of modern media than often depicts reverse grip as a viable option for longer blades. People testing the broad application of reverse grip are the natural results of it being depicted as effective in so many movies.
@@Madcowdiseiz and you're missing the context of those Reverse Grip situations yourself. It's all about looking cool, and not about lecturing people on how much better it is.
Seki sensei makes any technique look so easy, such dedication and mastery, makes me so proud to get to train with sensei and cant wait ti get ti japan and meet you shogo san and sensei
I was actually very skeptical when I heard that a long blade like a katana is going to be used in reverse grip. But looking at the demonstration, it seems like a sound technique even with a resisting opponent. For example: at 3:35, I assume that the opponent would try to grab the handle since he can't do much else that would make sense. With the reverse-grip, the sensei could then easily use a greater leverage by pushing the spine of the blade to cut from below. It would be interesting to ask the sensei what weaknesses the demonstrated techniques have.
The fact that he could use the spine of the blade for leverage definitely also shows one advantage of having a single edged blade over a double. I imagine a similar technique to this could be done with something like a langmesser.
I was lucky enough to be taught some of these draws when a young Judoka, exploring other arts. When I then started doing some other arts (Shorinji Khan Jiu Jitsu), I would practice these draws a lot often to some ridicule. This was definitely an eye opening video, to see it described and shown in such detail, I feel vindicated in some of my earlier forms. Thank you.
Another interesting exposition. Gyakute-uchi (reverse-grip cut) is a rare bird indeed. I had only encountered it once using the katana in a kata of Shindo Munen Ryu (a.k.a. Hosoda Ryu), and have seen it in the Okuden Kata of Mugai Ryu (which was above my 'pay grade" when actively training) - in both cases, the right hand was used. I do recall a workshop with a left-hand gyakute draw but I cannot recall what style that was. Unlike what I saw here, all of these were katate-tsuki (one-hand thrusts) to the rear. Also in Tendo Ryu, we do have a kata in which the naginata is abandoned (when the uchi-maai [effective cutting range] of the naginata has been breached), and one gets inside the uchi-maai of the bokuto, and threatens the neck using a kaiken/aikuchi (dagger) held in a right-hand gyakute grip drawn from the obi; although this is threat in the kata, in the drawing method a slash across the throat is implied to be followed by a tsuki. Obviously gyakute-uchi & gyakute-tsuki are specialized waza for use in specific situations.
This seems like such a good sensei! You can see in his movements that he is extremely skilled and also he has a great teaching style. Very wise and balanced
I am always amazed at the new stuff that Seki Sensei brings to us ! I have taken Iaido lessons in the past, it was not even remotely close to Seki's. His technique is so slick and extremely fluid, there is always a rational and pratical explanation related to realife situation. I am definitely going to support via Patreon ! Amazing work to both Shogo and Seki ! 😊
I have 20 years of budo experience, and I was very skeptical when clicking this video. However, I tried out the techniques in the video and can see the logic. I see that there are certain situations during iai when reverse grip makes more sense than conventional grip. This was a very good video which lays out some of those situations very well. Thank you. Just as Seki Sensei explained with the sword, the reverse grip with a knife makes it much easier to draw with the left hand, when your right hand is not available. When it comes to using a knife after it is drawn, I feel that a conventional grip is superior at a longer range (like issoku itto maai) due to having slightly longer reach, and the ability to pressure with the point, but a reverse grip could be a good alternative when closer to the opponent, grappling, or on the ground.
When you watch the films of Shintaro Katsu as Zatoichi, the blind swordsman, you see a lot of reverse-grip. It is the style that the character is said to have mastered (in the fictional books about him), and Katsu definitely uses the style. He always draws with the blade facing forward for an upward slash, then brings it down as he passes, just like Seki sensei demonstrates. It's quite devastating because it's a classic psych-out -- not many people expect it to be used, and as a result, it often throws opponents off. It's like being left-handed in baseball. since so few people are left handed, one left-hander can make a pitcher or catcher disoriented. But not for long. This is why it helps to be able to do these moves super-fast -- one of the goals of most martial arts -- be swift and accurate. Fast drawing and striking give you an advantage. Reverse grip enhances that.
Amazing techniques by Seki Sensei! The reverse draw with the left hand seems the same technique used by Toshiro Mifune in Akira Kurosawa's Sanjuro film in the final duel scene. This is the first time I see a clear demonstration and explanation of this rare technique.
And this is why I love these videos, they try it out dozens of ways to see if it works and how it'd work before making any final judgment. As they've said "its situational, depending"
I'd be interested in seeing Seki-Sensei demonstrate some of the Tanto reverse grip techniques by dual wielding Tanto. Perhaps in 1 vs 2 or more situation. Example draw, deflect and then Stab, draw 2nd Tanto move leg forward with a slash motion. Then, a backwards stab. Maybe.
Absolutely Love this video. A Rational Explanation of the Value and Defects of Reverse Grip without any Hyperbole. Clear Smooth Kata Flawlessly Executed and Explained. Just a Fantastic Treat today. Domo Arigato. Mahalo and Aloha.
This is amazing, I was taught that reverse grips should only be used when you dual wield swords and intend to use one of your swords as a shield. The exact system I'm referring to is Corja Shantung Northern Praying Mantis Kung Fu. The reverse grip is taught on the second grade with Chinese broad swords, the first grade is single, the second is dual weild. We were told to NEVER reverse grip a single sword. I'm so happy to see that single reverse grip has practical application.
Hmmm, still seems too limiting though as in order to block you have to let the opponents weapon get very close to you in order for you to block effectively. Plus it's only a sword they can get around it easily, I'd rather hold it normally to help keep my opponent at a distance and have more leverage
@@GrimViridian "in order to block you have to let the opponents weapon get very close" ...... Oh wow..... I learned something today. Sure, but we trained for that specific technique... We have our way of doing it... Kinda how martial arts work, no?
@@wewereneversane9833 sure but what I'm saying is reverse grip would literally put their weapon right next to your arm/body, no matter the training that's inherently more dangerous. I'd rather keep them at the length of my weapon
Basically going with, reverse grip with long weapons is situational. To be used properly it requires a keen sense of timing and distance and is most often used from the draw to gain a more advantageous position, or counter attack.
Fascinating. I've never fully trained with a Katana before. I use to think it what highly stylized for no reason until finding your channel. Now I see there is a lot of economy of movement, and every move was well thought out before hand. Since finding your channel I've started to fold a bunch of Katana techniques into my practice. Thanks for breaking everything down, you really make it easy to understand.
Very interesting to watch and see the practical moves of this style of swordmanship. The only thing I am unsure of, in terms of effectiveness, is the tanto reverse grip slash. I understand it's meant to give extended range to make the slash more likely to contact, but it seems to me that it has a very loose grip with the fingers. To me, in my line of thinking, this put the tanto in a position to be accidently dropped or knocked away; either by the tango hitting something hard enough that it causes the blade to slip out of the hand, or, if the opponent is quick enough, to smack the blade while there isn't a firm grip on the handle. Once the slash is done and fully back in the reverse grip, I see no issue from there. But this is me just thinking about it - I have no practical experience to make a definitive judgement on it's practicality. Again, I still find this totally fascinating to watch.
This reverse grip technique seems that it would be highly effective in a narrow walkway with an opponent close in front of you.i shall add this technique to my training. Many thanks master!
i think something to keep in mind here is the design and the style of in this particular example Japanese martial arts and techniques the way that the Katana,Uchigatana, and Tanto are designed can allow for more use with reverse grips due to the curve and design of the blades it may be practical for this region of the world but i still firmly stand in the boat that i would NEVER use my Longsword in this fashion XD but AMAZING video and its always incredible to watch the beauty and technical skill of Eastern Martial Arts
Fantastic video as always 👍But you need to get some rest after your long day, only saw you 3 hours ago 😴 Thank you 👍 Take care. Stay safe 🙏 John and Kate
Makes sense to use reverse grip for small arms, because your not sacrificing reach like you would with a sword or katana. Its already an inside weapon. So it makes sense there
For peapol like me... your videos of kobudo are puré gold ( thank you so much to show all this interesting technics ) best kuden we can faund in RUclips
I also wanna point out that if you use this sort of reverse grip draw at close quarters against a newer swordsman and you psyche them out it's pretty likely that when they let go of the handle they might just drop their sword, or even worse, try to catch it as it's falling (which would obviously end in them getting cut pretty badly)
This is a really good channel. I think Reverse Grip is also beneficial in situations where you must use 2 swords. Those situations are rare, but when applicable.. it is nearly impossible to wield 2 swords if you hold them both with a traditional one handed grip. If you wield a sword in your left hand using a reverse grip, and a sword with traditional grip in your right hand, the sword in your left hand becomes almost like a shield or buckler.
Synopsis; a special technique for limited situations. Would be the same for East or West swords, though cross guards would make the movements more difficult. I think that is the reason the Japanese went with a disc guard…or not. Liked the video regardless
There are several situational virtues to using reverse grip as this video points out. Generally speaking it’s not something to focus too heavily upon but it’s a nice tool to have in the toolbox.
if I'm ever attacked by a katana in my home, I would use reverse grip to tempt the attacker to swing at my head because I know my ceilings are too low for that and he'll get stuck :D
I'm currently playing Like a Dragon Ishin! and I couldn't help but think of the in-game Tennen Rishin style which uses the reverse grip with shorter uchi-katana. I know it's a game and the style was probably made more spectacular for entertainment reasons, but I can't help being curious about the style... Although I guess it would probably be more appropriate for an actual Let's Ask Shogo video... Just throwing the idea out there, could be interesting.
basically what I got out of this is that the reverse grip has its uses and so isn't as bad as people make it out to be, but should only supplement forward grip.
That was absolutely fantastic, and super cool! Thank you so much 🙏 I was wondering if there are any simple exercises you can do with a wooden sword to build strength, stamina and coordination? Again thank you so much, and I can't wait to see more 👍
Seems like basically how to use a sword in knife fighting or grappling distance. But what sort of contexts would you have a full length sword but not have a knife? knifes, daggers are cheaper and easier to wear infinitely easier to use and wear.
Yeah pretty much the exact reasons reverse-grip was used in medieval europe: you're at extremely close range with a sword and limited movement options (theoretically speaking, "The Bite" happened a lot more in actual warfare than in HEMA). such as your sword being locked in a bite, at which point, there are images of reverse-gripping the blade to more easily grapple the opponent so you can release the bite and stab them. It was also extremely effective with daggers on armoured opponents. Another time it was used historically was actually dropping into a reverse-grip to parry a low strike on your sword's side, where you then grapple them and draw the reversed blade up their torso to slice the stomach and possibly the neck depending on how much quicker you were. Basically reverse-grip is a surprise attack or an attack to get through armour with a small blade
Thank you for sharing these great techniques. Can these movements, maybe even some of the Tanto also be used with a Wakizashi? In indoor situations with limited movement samurai didn't always have Katana, but they did have their Wakizashi. These techniques could be extra usefull in those limited movement situations, right?
Seki-sensei's reverse grip demonstrations still show that the Reverse Grip is a transient state. When people say reverse grip is bad, they usually mean in the way it is used in some movies and games, where the user never uses standard grip at all. Zatoichi is a bit of a grey area, although he and Ichi (his daughter in a spin off movie), use reverse grip almost exclusively, they also do more of an ambush technique using iaido than a sustained duelling style. Reverse Grip has applications and advantages in specific contexts, but it is not a good idea to use it as your main fighting position, ESPECIALLY as a beginner.
Also Roman Legionnaires sheathed their Gladii on the right side, which suggests their swords were short enough to be drawn more quickly in reverse grip than in standard. It is likely they could draw in reverse, stab quickly, and then flip the sword around to standard grip when necessary.
Hì Sensei. Would love to learn more from you. Unfortunately not able to find any dojo where I live, Malaysia. The most I can get is watching your channel
During the katas the grip looks weak and it doesnt seem to be tight. I dont see it having enough leverage to cut that way, and it looks easy to parry too. It would be great to show the reverse grip drawing cutting tatami and applying it in light resistance situation.
Always loved tanto jutsu of all Aiki weapons- Seki Sensei is flawless!!🔥 @shogo - please can you list the different audio you use, it’s perfect background music!❤
Reverse-grip is obviously natural for knives (and tantö), but seeing it used with the uchi-katana is refreshing. Of course, one can imagine very particular and specific situations where the reverse grip might be useful, but seeing an actual master do it is much more meaningful.
All techniques are useful in the unpredictable nature of battle, if you’ve ever rolled with a knife reverse grip is pretty nice for burying a blade into someone and keeping ahold of the blade. Idk about swords but I could definitely see how it’d be useful. This debate is weird because obviously it’s not good as an entire fighting style unless it’s an anime and you have plot armor😂
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The so called "reverse grip" on the tanto is called the icepick grip for western daggers and short weapons. For the same reason it is effective with the tanto: stabbing and hooking motions. It's like you're using an icepick to break a block of ice.
No! The difference is the position of your thumb if u place u thumb on the bottom of the handle its an ice pick grip, for more stability and a better thrusting ability. If u use a reverse grip u thumb is on the side of the handle, so it's much easier to switch back to your regular position. A lot of people get confused by these. Hope u all have a nice week. :3
@@tsuukimarunakayama9055 that only applies depending on the length of the handle of the weapon. Look at most icepick grips in HEMA. There is no such specification on thumb placement.
@@idleeidolon I would love to see somebody try to place their thumb on the bottom of a rondel dagger's handle lol. Gotta love how the "experts" crawl out of the woodwork in the comment sections of all weapon demonstration videos.
Semantics? Ice pick is still a reverse grip, because you have to hold an ice pick this way to use it. Besides that, the knife, dagger, sword, is a blade and not an ice pick. Who would've guessed?
The use that Europeans or occupation that requires the breaking of ice does not define something for the rest of the world. HEMA is not the origin of all things.
I see the practicality of the “close distance problem” often in the instances of the opponent using a knife/tanto and the defendant needing to use these techniques with their sword.
My master once said “in the chaos of battle its best to have trained everything and know your weapon from every inch and angle”
That applies not only to weapons but fighting styles.
Take for example boxing: even though modern boxing only has punching attacks, a boxer that has trained how to use his boxing against other fighting styles will do better than a Karateka tgat has only practiced against other Karatekas
Better advice: "In the Maelstrom of Battle, it is best to do your fighting from a great distance."
There's not a sword style on the planet that can beat me from 20 yards with a Glock.
@@Sue_Me_Too Except only applies traveling within the US. Out of state is a little different story. Then again, the odds of needing swordsmanship only means that either you are a very unlucky 0.001% person or a fool looking for a fight. Boxing and Jujitsu probably all you need I guess.
I would like to see a test to show how effective as cut power of the sword - not on a naked body - compare with the normal grip cut.
@@jestfullgremblim8002 boxing is more than just throwing punches. It's all about endurance, techniques and proper breathing and not using all your energy and strength since not everyones gonna knock out on the first fight.
I do appreciate that you asked about scenarios in which the sword is already drawn. While I do love HEMA as well, I am rather annoyed that they tend to look at combat in a vacuum that does not address how and when fights break out. They just act like every scuffle starts like a duel at 20 paces.
HEMA does that, because duels was the most common situation where you would use a sword outside of battle. This is why the concept of iai doesn't really exist in HEMA, because it was way more focused on judicial duels.
Culture and context
The things people do in war is different than what they do in a lord's court.
And as others have said, judicial duels were a thing. Considering that most swords were generally considered as sidearms to a war dedicated weapon, most of these sword on sword duels were judicial, or the sword was already drawn as a sidearm because the primary weapon of war was not available or unapplicable.
Beyond this, it seems like the Eastern use of the reverse grip is just a way of buying yourself time to return to a normal grip.
@@Tunturisorsa some plays in Fiore's manuscript shows techniques from the draw I believe.
@@atom8248 I'm sure they existed. They weren't common though
Maybe you haven't heard? Different culture and techniques.
HEMA is basically duels.
Some of these techniques can be viable if done correctly and implemented into proper actions.
6:08
Golden rule of historical fencing: if it wasn't done, it was most likely impractical or unnecessary; people back then knew way more about fencing than we do now, so we should always look back and consider their opinions. There's no techniques in HEMA either (that i know of) where the reverse grip is used over the normal grip for the entire duration of a duel and outside of very specific techniques
Exactly. Historical in pretty much all styles including eastern. Theres no evidence of it being used. Just because someone teaches it doesnt mean its legit.
Spot on. All anyone has been asking for is live sparring effectiveness to prove it works. Not this 'Heres a guy that teaches it and maybe it could be used for this'
Ah, you've never seen the "jump on their back and stab them 36 times" technique.
If you pull off that iai technique from the video, then you've basically used reverse grip for pretty much the entire duration of a duel. It was just a very short duel.
How come people from the past knew more about fencing than we do now? Did they have proper protection, and actually use it, to test all techniques at full speed? Did they have high-speed cameras to examine every minute detail of their technics? Did they have today's knowledge of biology or physics? No, they didn't. Nowadays we don't encounter situations where we have to fight with swords, but we do study it and we develop new technics. We create new equipment like a Belgian "pistol" grip that is far better than the standard one. People from the past had a better understanding and experience of fighting where you could be injured or killed but this is another topic.
And yes, the reverse grip is garbage :P
i know he's a master but still seeing the amount of katas sensei has memorized with different weapons and for different scenarios is just mindblowing especially when you consider the details like flipping the saya sheathe and probably lots more we don't even notice 🤯
Like mastering a complex piano piece basically.
@@piotrmalewski8178 for him it's like memorizing every single thing Beethoven wrote
@@johnapple6646 no no, what you said is defenitely harder hahaha
Flipping the saya is definitely something he himself has forgotten to do at some point, judging by his face when he says it.
@@johnapple6646 I'd argue said music require orders of magnitude more moves to be mastered and memorised.
Reverse grip absolutely does suck in general, BUT it is very important to observe the ways in which reverse grip is being used here and understand the specific reasoning and situational context for why these techniques exist. As stated in the video, the reverse grip is only used for iai, and it is explained that the context is when the opponent is too close (which can occur for a number of reasons). If your sword is already out, reverse grip offers no advantages, and we can see that this ryu recognizes that by not having any non-iai reverse grip techniques (as stated by Seki-sensei). Also, notice how the reverse grip iai techniques are applying the one and only cut that reverse grip can do better than normal grip, which is the inverse "down to up" vertical cut. This is a very situational cut, but in the situations shown, it becomes something extremely tricky for the opponent to deal with. On top of that, notice how the kata takes into account the changing distance; for example, in the basic skill draw, the reverse grip is used just for iai, representing the close range condition, and then a standard grip is immediately adopted to perform the final "killing" cut. The fact that this detail exists is extremely significant. In fact, all the small details shown have meaning - I don't feel like writing a full essay, but I would encourage any watcher to re-watch everything and pick one part of Seki-sensei to focus on (for example, the feet). When you watch what he does and think about how each movement connects to the rest, you will start to get a glimpse of the 400 year history behind this martial art in a way that even a history book couldn't explain.
I came into this video rather skeptical, because people who think reverse grip "works" are generally untrained and unskilled individuals, but the details shown through the kata here are demonstrative of an extremely well-developed martial art and are indicative of the full and complete legitimacy of this style and its techniques. I made this comment because I hope that other people might understand the true significance of the small details demonstrated here - this is the real deal, no doubt about it.
As for the tanto, reverse grip techniques are well known to exist in styles across the world for knife-length weapons, and reverse grip is fully legitimate and practical for such a weapon, so no issues there.
Thank you for articulating that so well and saving me 15 mins. I'm glad I found this channel, and hope all of the truly observant warriors out there find it as well. And hopefully people who already follow know the significance of the intuitiveness of this style. I have over a decade of martial arts experience and started training my swordsmanship just a few months ago, not finding this channel for the first month, and when I did stumble across it...I was basically already practicing it😂
Seki Sensei has very high kinetic intelligence built up over decades of experience, and truly moves like a master. He has my deepest respect.
actually in his long sword reverse grip he did a dual cut the first reverse the second standard grip cut for extra measure the first reverse cut is pretty much the fatal cut since it's range is from lower torso to upper torso
3:58
5:23
9:27.🤔🤨🧐
A true master can wield his sword however he chooses and be effective. I practice a technique that in fact gives me more reach as well as the ability to evade simultaneously. It's probably why you see it used with the tanto due to its lack of reach. Don't limit yourself to other people's ideas.
I've seen Tanto length weapons or knife techniques which use this grip but not a longer Katana. It was really amazing to watch Seki Sensei. Thank you!
The reverse grip is good for hooking and stabbing with a shorter blade, where a full length sword would get in its own way.
I am going to be completely ignoring the debate about this subject from now on. This is absolutely the use case for such a technique.
As a westerner with a keen interest in Japanese weapons, armor, and martial techniques, Seki Sensei is amazing. Not only because of his expertise, but his willingness to show us these techniques. There are no Japanese weapon-based schools near me, some of what others have online is clearly nonsensical, some is very gate-kept in the "we teach you in private and you can never teach anyone else" secret lineage. This is an excellent video to dispel the myth of "never reverse grip, you mall ninja".
I've been seeing a lot of shorts from that one guy who practice western sword fighting (not sure if it is fencing or HEMA). He's been constantly shitting on reverse grip, to which I agree its ineffectiveness and overrepresentation in anime and shows. This video really clarifies WHEN it is used for longer swords, which is essentially helps with unsheathing at close quarter. Reverse grip for daggers are for dodging next to the enemy while attacking and hooking.
Lastly, I just LOVE how clean Seki sensei does every move. So relaxed but so fast at the same time.
I love how smooth his technique is. That left handed draw looks like something Duncan Macleod would do in The Highlander. I really wish I could afford to do Seki Sensei's weekly video lessons 😞
Yes learned a lot from watching Duncan use a reverse grip.
I've always said that reverse grip with swords is something that I might do in specific situations, but it's not a grip I'm going to try to use for an entire fight. The problem with talking about reverse grip being effective or not is that some people have this image that ONLY using reverse grip is badass and effective, when it's really more of just a situational thing where it can be an option under some specific circumstances.
PRetty much, and then we have some foolish skeptics that want to prove that reverse grip is bad, and test it on normal situations, completely ignoring why the damn thing exists. And then they come here complain about lack of range. Of course you'll have problems when you use a technique wrongfully.
I've never scene any demonstration of effectiveness of reverse-grip without involving surprises/trickery.
So yeah definitely a thing for assassination, not so much for 1-on-1 duel in open field.
Yeah it is situational at best.... But it isnt usless, if you are up close to a target and cant back up using the end of the hilt or crossgard to hit them in the face would be a good example. Or you are stuck between two people and dont have time to move down fully to block flipping your sword backwards and chaeging in to knock them down and stabbing them, other than that and pure down ward thrusts while you on the ground and slight cuts when dodging it doesnt have much use, its more of a reactive defense than anything, its somewhat like half swording aswell, just less effective. But half swording does pretty much every reverse grip can do. And more.
@@bloody4558 I think you're missing the context of modern media than often depicts reverse grip as a viable option for longer blades. People testing the broad application of reverse grip are the natural results of it being depicted as effective in so many movies.
@@Madcowdiseiz and you're missing the context of those Reverse Grip situations yourself. It's all about looking cool, and not about lecturing people on how much better it is.
Seki sensei makes any technique look so easy, such dedication and mastery, makes me so proud to get to train with sensei and cant wait ti get ti japan and meet you shogo san and sensei
Knew it didn't only look cool!
This is awesome, what I learned from seki sensei videos is that a skilled samurai could basically draw the katana from any position.
I could watch him do katas all day. So smooth and fluid with his motions it truly is a dance he’s doing.
I was actually very skeptical when I heard that a long blade like a katana is going to be used in reverse grip. But looking at the demonstration, it seems like a sound technique even with a resisting opponent.
For example: at 3:35, I assume that the opponent would try to grab the handle since he can't do much else that would make sense. With the reverse-grip, the sensei could then easily use a greater leverage by pushing the spine of the blade to cut from below.
It would be interesting to ask the sensei what weaknesses the demonstrated techniques have.
Even Longswords do it and there's arts of and pieces of old duels portraying it. And again very situational
"A long blade like a katana"
Excuse me, what?
It only works if the opponent is too close that you can't strike your opponent effectively with usual grip.
@@drifter-donosadventureobsc9565 Not as long as a greatsword, but as opposed to say, a tanto? Yes, a long blade.
The fact that he could use the spine of the blade for leverage definitely also shows one advantage of having a single edged blade over a double. I imagine a similar technique to this could be done with something like a langmesser.
I was lucky enough to be taught some of these draws when a young Judoka, exploring other arts. When I then started doing some other arts (Shorinji Khan Jiu Jitsu), I would practice these draws a lot often to some ridicule. This was definitely an eye opening video, to see it described and shown in such detail, I feel vindicated in some of my earlier forms. Thank you.
REVERSE GRIP TECHNIQUE REALLY DID SAVE ME HA?
With this treasure I summon
Another interesting exposition.
Gyakute-uchi (reverse-grip cut) is a rare bird indeed. I had only encountered it once using the katana in a kata of Shindo Munen Ryu (a.k.a. Hosoda Ryu), and have seen it in the Okuden Kata of Mugai Ryu (which was above my 'pay grade" when actively training) - in both cases, the right hand was used.
I do recall a workshop with a left-hand gyakute draw but I cannot recall what style that was. Unlike what I saw here, all of these were katate-tsuki (one-hand thrusts) to the rear.
Also in Tendo Ryu, we do have a kata in which the naginata is abandoned (when the uchi-maai [effective cutting range] of the naginata has been breached), and one gets inside the uchi-maai of the bokuto, and threatens the neck using a kaiken/aikuchi (dagger) held in a right-hand gyakute grip drawn from the obi; although this is threat in the kata, in the drawing method a slash across the throat is implied to be followed by a tsuki.
Obviously gyakute-uchi & gyakute-tsuki are specialized waza for use in specific situations.
This seems like such a good sensei! You can see in his movements that he is extremely skilled and also he has a great teaching style. Very wise and balanced
I am always amazed at the new stuff that Seki Sensei brings to us ! I have taken Iaido lessons in the past, it was not even remotely close to Seki's. His technique is so slick and extremely fluid, there is always a rational and pratical explanation related to realife situation. I am definitely going to support via Patreon ! Amazing work to both Shogo and Seki ! 😊
They need to create an anime character based on Seki sensei. He is just too cool and too smooth!
Seki Sensei's movements are so fluid and his explanation is very simple. Great video Shogo
I have 20 years of budo experience, and I was very skeptical when clicking this video. However, I tried out the techniques in the video and can see the logic. I see that there are certain situations during iai when reverse grip makes more sense than conventional grip. This was a very good video which lays out some of those situations very well. Thank you.
Just as Seki Sensei explained with the sword, the reverse grip with a knife makes it much easier to draw with the left hand, when your right hand is not available.
When it comes to using a knife after it is drawn, I feel that a conventional grip is superior at a longer range (like issoku itto maai) due to having slightly longer reach, and the ability to pressure with the point, but a reverse grip could be a good alternative when closer to the opponent, grappling, or on the ground.
This guy knows his stuff. Great video
I love how awesome Seki Sensei is about answering all of these amazing questions :)
@SellswordArts I summon you for the great reverse grip experiment 😂
When you watch the films of Shintaro Katsu as Zatoichi, the blind swordsman, you see a lot of reverse-grip. It is the style that the character is said to have mastered (in the fictional books about him), and Katsu definitely uses the style. He always draws with the blade facing forward for an upward slash, then brings it down as he passes, just like Seki sensei demonstrates. It's quite devastating because it's a classic psych-out -- not many people expect it to be used, and as a result, it often throws opponents off. It's like being left-handed in baseball. since so few people are left handed, one left-hander can make a pitcher or catcher disoriented. But not for long.
This is why it helps to be able to do these moves super-fast -- one of the goals of most martial arts -- be swift and accurate. Fast drawing and striking give you an advantage. Reverse grip enhances that.
Since Zatoichi is blind, he would be forced to be a close quarter combatant than mid or long ranged more often.
Seki sensei es un maestro excepcional,dominio y excelencia, gracias por compartir sus conocimientos
Seki sensei is amazing! His ki energy is always positive and joyful and his jutsu flawless. He is truly inspiring!
Amazing techniques by Seki Sensei! The reverse draw with the left hand seems the same technique used by Toshiro Mifune in Akira Kurosawa's Sanjuro film in the final duel scene. This is the first time I see a clear demonstration and explanation of this rare technique.
I saw these techniques on the Japanese channel and I could not have been more excited to see the explanations for it! Such amazing forms.
And this is why I love these videos, they try it out dozens of ways to see if it works and how it'd work before making any final judgment.
As they've said "its situational, depending"
I'd be interested in seeing Seki-Sensei demonstrate some of the Tanto reverse grip techniques by dual wielding Tanto.
Perhaps in 1 vs 2 or more situation.
Example draw, deflect and then Stab, draw 2nd Tanto move leg forward with a slash motion.
Then, a backwards stab. Maybe.
Why would you need two daggers? One stabby thing is enough. You're just taking away a free hand that can grapple.
@@jephilologist it's a demonstration request.
Absolutely Love this video. A Rational Explanation of the Value and Defects of Reverse Grip without any Hyperbole. Clear Smooth Kata Flawlessly Executed and Explained. Just a Fantastic Treat today. Domo Arigato. Mahalo and Aloha.
"Why the reverse grip is strong"
Lol I always love his face after he shows you something cool! You can tell he really loves what he does.
You honor me with your wisdom sensei. You have my deepest gratitude.
Sugaiii!!!!!, I wouldn’t want to have to duel seki Sensei in close quarters combat 😳
This is amazing, I was taught that reverse grips should only be used when you dual wield swords and intend to use one of your swords as a shield.
The exact system I'm referring to is Corja Shantung Northern Praying Mantis Kung Fu.
The reverse grip is taught on the second grade with Chinese broad swords, the first grade is single, the second is dual weild.
We were told to NEVER reverse grip a single sword.
I'm so happy to see that single reverse grip has practical application.
Hmmm, still seems too limiting though as in order to block you have to let the opponents weapon get very close to you in order for you to block effectively. Plus it's only a sword they can get around it easily, I'd rather hold it normally to help keep my opponent at a distance and have more leverage
@@GrimViridian "in order to block you have to let the opponents weapon get very close" ...... Oh wow..... I learned something today.
Sure, but we trained for that specific technique... We have our way of doing it... Kinda how martial arts work, no?
@@wewereneversane9833 sure but what I'm saying is reverse grip would literally put their weapon right next to your arm/body, no matter the training that's inherently more dangerous. I'd rather keep them at the length of my weapon
Basically going with, reverse grip with long weapons is situational. To be used properly it requires a keen sense of timing and distance and is most often used from the draw to gain a more advantageous position, or counter attack.
Fascinating. I've never fully trained with a Katana before. I use to think it what highly stylized for no reason until finding your channel. Now I see there is a lot of economy of movement, and every move was well thought out before hand. Since finding your channel I've started to fold a bunch of Katana techniques into my practice. Thanks for breaking everything down, you really make it easy to understand.
That reverse left hand grip looks amazing and unaware that it's coming from the bottom
This was a great example of reverse grip. I haven't seen an example like this anywhere. Really cool😄
Very interesting to watch and see the practical moves of this style of swordmanship. The only thing I am unsure of, in terms of effectiveness, is the tanto reverse grip slash. I understand it's meant to give extended range to make the slash more likely to contact, but it seems to me that it has a very loose grip with the fingers. To me, in my line of thinking, this put the tanto in a position to be accidently dropped or knocked away; either by the tango hitting something hard enough that it causes the blade to slip out of the hand, or, if the opponent is quick enough, to smack the blade while there isn't a firm grip on the handle. Once the slash is done and fully back in the reverse grip, I see no issue from there.
But this is me just thinking about it - I have no practical experience to make a definitive judgement on it's practicality. Again, I still find this totally fascinating to watch.
Amazing ! And very clearly explained too! Great contents. Thank you for sharing your videos with wealth of knowledge...
This reverse grip technique seems that it would be highly effective in a narrow walkway with an opponent close in front of you.i shall add this technique to my training. Many thanks master!
Sanjuro Climax Duel. Akira Kurosawa, 1962. Iconic cinematic moment and a classic demonstration of this technique.
i think something to keep in mind here is the design and the style of in this particular example Japanese martial arts and techniques the way that the Katana,Uchigatana, and Tanto are designed can allow for more use with reverse grips due to the curve and design of the blades it may be practical for this region of the world but i still firmly stand in the boat that i would NEVER use my Longsword in this fashion XD but AMAZING video and its always incredible to watch the beauty and technical skill of Eastern Martial Arts
Fantastic video as always 👍But you need to get some rest after your long day, only saw you 3 hours ago 😴 Thank you 👍 Take care. Stay safe 🙏
John and Kate
Makes sense to use reverse grip for small arms, because your not sacrificing reach like you would with a sword or katana. Its already an inside weapon. So it makes sense there
Excellent technique! Wonderful video Sensei.
For peapol like me... your videos of kobudo are puré gold ( thank you so much to show all this interesting technics ) best kuden we can faund in RUclips
I also wanna point out that if you use this sort of reverse grip draw at close quarters against a newer swordsman and you psyche them out it's pretty likely that when they let go of the handle they might just drop their sword, or even worse, try to catch it as it's falling (which would obviously end in them getting cut pretty badly)
seki sensei again with amazing content!
thank you
I'm surprised that no one mentioned Zatoichi. =)
I love this channel and I'm so happy that I discovered it.
This is a really good channel. I think Reverse Grip is also beneficial in situations where you must use 2 swords. Those situations are rare, but when applicable.. it is nearly impossible to wield 2 swords if you hold them both with a traditional one handed grip. If you wield a sword in your left hand using a reverse grip, and a sword with traditional grip in your right hand, the sword in your left hand becomes almost like a shield or buckler.
The Flow is amazing!
Synopsis; a special technique for limited situations. Would be the same for East or West swords, though cross guards would make the movements more difficult. I think that is the reason the Japanese went with a disc guard…or not. Liked the video regardless
i love rever grip at close range so much foot work but its great fun !
His art is beautiful. Thank you for sharing.
Awesome video Shogo, thank you very much. We learned lots of thing
There are several situational virtues to using reverse grip as this video points out. Generally speaking it’s not something to focus too heavily upon but it’s a nice tool to have in the toolbox.
if I'm ever attacked by a katana in my home, I would use reverse grip to tempt the attacker to swing at my head because I know my ceilings are too low for that and he'll get stuck :D
@@TrueFork Isn't something similar done in Hioyuki Sanada's Twilight Samurai? XD
I'm currently playing Like a Dragon Ishin! and I couldn't help but think of the in-game Tennen Rishin style which uses the reverse grip with shorter uchi-katana.
I know it's a game and the style was probably made more spectacular for entertainment reasons, but I can't help being curious about the style... Although I guess it would probably be more appropriate for an actual Let's Ask Shogo video... Just throwing the idea out there, could be interesting.
I would love to see him react to the Rurouni Keshin movies, they have great sword fights and I’d like to know his input as a real master
fantastic. ありがとう、先生
basically what I got out of this is that the reverse grip has its uses and so isn't as bad as people make it out to be, but should only supplement forward grip.
I love all these different techniques. ❤
your sensei is cool as heck.
That was absolutely fantastic, and super cool!
Thank you so much 🙏
I was wondering if there are any simple exercises you can do with a wooden sword to build strength, stamina and coordination?
Again thank you so much, and I can't wait to see more 👍
Thank you for the lesson!
Seems like basically how to use a sword in knife fighting or grappling distance. But what sort of contexts would you have a full length sword but not have a knife? knifes, daggers are cheaper and easier to wear infinitely easier to use and wear.
Yeah pretty much the exact reasons reverse-grip was used in medieval europe: you're at extremely close range with a sword and limited movement options (theoretically speaking, "The Bite" happened a lot more in actual warfare than in HEMA). such as your sword being locked in a bite, at which point, there are images of reverse-gripping the blade to more easily grapple the opponent so you can release the bite and stab them. It was also extremely effective with daggers on armoured opponents. Another time it was used historically was actually dropping into a reverse-grip to parry a low strike on your sword's side, where you then grapple them and draw the reversed blade up their torso to slice the stomach and possibly the neck depending on how much quicker you were.
Basically reverse-grip is a surprise attack or an attack to get through armour with a small blade
So willing and happy to teach.....
Reminds me of some of the movements in all the Zatoichi movies. Really Kool kata!
Amazing Seki Sensei 👍🏻👍🏻
Kodachi lends itself nicely to reverse grip fighting.
beautiful bladework. Thanks for sharing!
Super cool lesson!
Very impressive he knows so much so gifted thank you for sharing.😮
Thanks for the continuing education
Very beautiful to watch
Thank you for sharing these great techniques. Can these movements, maybe even some of the Tanto also be used with a Wakizashi? In indoor situations with limited movement samurai didn't always have Katana, but they did have their Wakizashi. These techniques could be extra usefull in those limited movement situations, right?
Seki-sensei's reverse grip demonstrations still show that the Reverse Grip is a transient state. When people say reverse grip is bad, they usually mean in the way it is used in some movies and games, where the user never uses standard grip at all.
Zatoichi is a bit of a grey area, although he and Ichi (his daughter in a spin off movie), use reverse grip almost exclusively, they also do more of an ambush technique using iaido than a sustained duelling style.
Reverse Grip has applications and advantages in specific contexts, but it is not a good idea to use it as your main fighting position, ESPECIALLY as a beginner.
Also Roman Legionnaires sheathed their Gladii on the right side, which suggests their swords were short enough to be drawn more quickly in reverse grip than in standard. It is likely they could draw in reverse, stab quickly, and then flip the sword around to standard grip when necessary.
I'd love to see polearm techniques: Naginata, Jumonji Yari, and that mancatcher.
Hì Sensei. Would love to learn more from you. Unfortunately not able to find any dojo where I live, Malaysia.
The most I can get is watching your channel
I want lesson about footwork in middle of fight
@Skallagrim needs to see this
During the katas the grip looks weak and it doesnt seem to be tight. I dont see it having enough leverage to cut that way, and it looks easy to parry too. It would be great to show the reverse grip drawing cutting tatami and applying it in light resistance situation.
Very nice, love it
Absolutely brilliant.
Always loved tanto jutsu of all Aiki weapons- Seki Sensei is flawless!!🔥
@shogo - please can you list the different audio you use, it’s perfect background music!❤
love these videos!
6:59 I just love the look on his face "I am so uncomfortable with you doing that in my face!" 😂
Simply beautiful
Reverse-grip is obviously natural for knives (and tantö), but seeing it used with the uchi-katana is refreshing.
Of course, one can imagine very particular and specific situations where the reverse grip might be useful, but seeing an actual master do it is much more meaningful.
All techniques are useful in the unpredictable nature of battle, if you’ve ever rolled with a knife reverse grip is pretty nice for burying a blade into someone and keeping ahold of the blade. Idk about swords but I could definitely see how it’d be useful. This debate is weird because obviously it’s not good as an entire fighting style unless it’s an anime and you have plot armor😂
There was one german HEMA style that does reverse with long sword. Ive used it and had it work twice, but after that, no because now its expected