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Kyudo Equipment
Tsuru (bow string)
Tsuru are made from natural hemp fibers or from synthetic materials such as kevlar. It goes without saying that the synthetic strings are more durable, but they will not produce the clear sounds at the release that a natural string will. Natural strings are only recommended for bamboo yumi and experienced kyudoka. Tsuru are also available in a mix of synthetic and hemp, and are more durable than pure hemp strings.
Tsuru come in lengths that correspond to the different sizes of yumi (see illustration for size chart). Natural tsuru also come in different weights or thicknesses known as monme (an ancient measurement). The most common monme measurements for strings are 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0. These measurements coincide with the pull strength of a yumi: 1.6 monme for any yumi up to fifteen kilograms, 1.8 monme for a sixteen to seventeen kilogram yumi, and 2.0 monme for a yumi that is eighteen to twenty kilograms.
For yumi over 20 kg, 2.1 to 2.4 monme tsuru are also available.
Please note that these recommendations are for experienced kyudoka. Individual ability can affect the durability and length of use of the tsuru.
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The tsurumaki is a woven rattan holder for spare bowstrings. A small powder horn for giriko is often attached to the tsurumaki.
Shaping blocks are made of soft wood and are usually available in pairs, large and small. They are used to keep a bamboo yumi in good shape.
The waraji is used in conjunction with kusune to condition a natural string. The pad is coated with kusune, and when rubbed over the string the friction melts the kusune which then helps to re-bind loosened fibers.
Better quality yazutsu are made of woven rattan, and use a pair of decorative tassels to secure the separate top section.
Most yumibukuro are made from cloth or silk and are usually quite decorative. They also serve the purpose of protecting the yumi from scratches.
A cloth or silk bag used to protect the leather yugake.
The muneate is made of leather or open mesh and is used only by women. They are available in white or black.
Kusune softens when heated and is used to bind the loosened fibers of a hemp tsuru.
Giriko is a type of rosin that is applied to the thumb of the shooting glove to keep the fingers from slipping during shooting.
Fudeko is made of fine ash and is used to reduce moisture on the hands and grip during shooting.
| This site is maintained by Dan and Jackie DeProspero, co-authors with their teacher, Hideharu Onuma Hanshi, of the books Kyudo: The Essence and Practice of Japanese Archery and Illuminated Spirit: Conversations with a Kyudo Master http://www.kyudo.com.html—Revised April 2, 2012 Copyright © 1998 Dan and Jackie DeProspero |
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