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RASETSU Octagonal Grip Dobari Shinai
A premium Dobari Jissengata Shinai with a large octagonal Koban grip, and one of the most specialised competition models in the range.
The RASETSU Octagonal Grip Dobari Shinai draws its balance firmly towards the hands with a Dobari body fuller through the lower section, a thinner Jissengata tip, and a large grip. That grip is an octagonal Koban shape, which fits the palm closely and gives strong feedback on the angle of the Shinai.
Its name, 羅刹, comes from a fierce guardian figure in Japanese Buddhism. Like every model in the Premium range, RASETSU is made to your specification: choose your fittings and Tsuru colour, or order the bamboo only.

A Grip That Settles the Hands
The large octagonal Koban grip fits closely into the palm, strengthening the grip and helping the hands settle into the correct Tenouchi. Its shape also tells the hands how the Shinai is angled, supporting the correct Hasuji.
With the balance close to the hands and high tip control, RASETSU suits quick combinations, Oji-Waza that catch the opponent as they start to move, and exchanges at close distance, ready to take the smallest opening.
Made to Your Specification
Choose your fittings and Tsuru colour and receive your RASETSU fully assembled and ready to use, or order the bamboo only to fit with your own fittings.
Key Features
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Large octagonal Koban grip
Fits closely into the palm for a secure grip and a well-settled Tenouchi. Approximately 28mm on size 39, measured on the bamboo without the Tsuka, with a 30mm grip also available. -
Strong directional feedback
The octagonal shape helps keep the correct Hasuji. -
Dobari Jissengata profile
A body fuller through the lower section and a thinner tip, both bringing the balance closer to the hands. -
High tip control
Suited to quick combinations, Oji-Waza, and close-distance exchanges. -
Choice of fittings
Three fitting options, or the bamboo only. -
Choice of Tsuru colour
Seven Tsuru colours for fitted options. -
Made to federation standards
Made according to the All Japan Kendo Federation and International Kendo Federation standards. -
Sizes for men and juniors
Available in men's size 39, and in junior size 38. -
Part of the Premium range
Each Premium model carries its own name in bronze engraving.
A Secure Grip
The octagonal Koban shape fits the palm for confident control.
Made Your Way
Your choice of fittings and Tsuru colour, assembled for you.
Ready for Any Opening
High tip control to take the smallest chance in Shiai.
Size and Specification Guide
All our Shinai are made according to the All Japan Kendo Federation and International Kendo Federation standards. The weights below are the minimum and the lengths the maximum set out in the All Japan Kendo Federation guidelines for each size.
Bamboo contains natural oil that dries out over time. To help your Shinai keep its proper weight, please oil it regularly.
| Size | Suitable For | Guideline Weight | Guideline Max. Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| 39 Men's | Men, university age and adult | 510g+ | 120cm |
| 38 | High school, approx. age 15 to 18 | 480g+ | 117cm |
Who Is RASETSU For?
RASETSU is for competition-minded Kendoka who want strong directional feedback and a secure grip, with a balance drawn firmly towards the hands.
It is one of the most specialised models in the range, and suits Kendoka who already know they prefer a large octagonal grip.
Choose Your Fittings
Fitted options are supplied fully assembled, with Tsuka, Sakigawa, Nakayui, and a Tsuru in your chosen colour. The options differ only in the Tsuka: the other parts are the same. Or order the bamboo only and fit your own.
| Option | What You Get | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| — | No fittings | The bamboo only, for Kendoka who prefer to fit their own Tsuka, Sakigawa, Nakayui, and Tsuru | |
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Single Folded Basic Fittings | A standard leather Tsuka, folded once at the end | |
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Single Folded Deluxe ‘Gin’ Leather Fittings | A softer Deluxe ‘Gin’ leather Tsuka, folded once at the end | |
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Double Folded Deluxe ‘Gin’ Leather Fittings | A softer Deluxe ‘Gin’ leather Tsuka, folded twice at the end with two loops for the Tsuru, for extra durability | |
Choose Your Tsuru Colour
If you choose fittings, you can also choose the colour of the Tsuru, the string that runs along the back of the Shinai, opposite the striking side.
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| White | Yellow | Black | Blue |
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| Purple | Green | Red |
Please note: Shinai are made from natural bamboo, so slight variations in colour, grain, weight, and finish are normal. The product received may vary slightly from the product images. Please inspect your Shinai regularly and maintain it correctly before and after practice.













