The Legend Widely regarded as Miyamoto Musashi's greatest rival, the swordsman known as Sasaki Kojiro (佐々木 小次郎) was a samurai renowned for his usage of a straight-edged nodachi (Japanese great sword) that was over 2 feet and 11 inches in length. Having trained extensively in the way of the sword, Kojiro developed a legendary technique that was feared throughout feudal Japan called the "Turning Swallow Cut" or Tsubame Gaeshi (燕返し, "Swallow Reversal / Return"). This sword maneuver was so named because it mimicked the motion of a swallow's tail during flight as observed at Kintaibashi Bridge in Iwakuni. This cut was reputedly so quick and precise that it could strike down a bird in mid-flight. Their rivalry came to a head in the famous duel of Ganryū Island, where Musashi struck down his long-time rival after an intense duel. The Ring Sasaki Kojiro's flamboyant nature and exquisite swordsmanship is showcased in our KOJIRO ring, forged from Mokume-gane. Handcrafted by our smith using traditional Japanese smithing techniques, each KOJIRO ring is a testament to the acclaimed samurai's skill with the sword. Unlike the high-carbon katana steel that is used in our other accessories, Mokume-gane does not rust and will not require the addition of chromium! However, it is important to note the presence of copper in the alloy. If you are allergic to copper it is advisable to avoid purchasing this ring. Like the rest of our accessories, the KOJIRO is crafted entirely by hand, and comes with a custom bamboo box.
