Crane Mountain offers a wide selection of woods. Which wood to select depends on the person and the intended use of the weapon. People smaller than the average person, need a lighter weapon.  A large person using a light weapon will have a difficult time getting speed and timing down.  Other people want a training weapon, which would be heavier than a competition kata weapon.

   There are a number of things to consider when choosing a weapon-appearance, strength, durability and weight. The appearance of the weapon is important for competition, however a kumite weapon needs strength and durability. Different woods are considerations for these two uses. Weight is another consideration in choosing a weapon. We have woods in many different weights so you can pick a wood for your size, use and comfort.

  Each wood sample has 1 to 5 ranking in (H) hardness, (F) flexibility, and (W) weight.  Hardness is based on the woods crushability from the side or how easy it dents.  Flexibility refers to the elastic character of the wood, how much it would bend before breaking.  The last parameter refers to the wood weight relative to the other hardwoods listed. Theses measurements are a average condition.  Wood is a living medium.  It’s flexibility and weight will vary greatly with age,  moister level, and grain density (from the core or external part of the tree).  The sub-species of the tree type can change its characteristics.  There are over 143 types of white oaks.  Appalachian red oak is much softer and lighter than its Asian cousin.

    

      The table below ranks the various woods to the different types of weapons.  Lower the rank, zero is don’t do it, to  a five is highly recommended.  These rankings are subjective and are relative to the other woods listed. 

Crane Mountain Weapons

Wood Selection

Toll free Phone: 1-888-527-9619

Email: sales@crane-mountain.com