Saya (scabbard)

By Yossi Sheriff

Saya, (鞘), is the Japanese term for a scabbard. The scabbard can be a Tanto, Katana or even Naginata scabbard. The Japanese Saya is made from lightweight and soft wood that helps prevent blade scratches and has a minor role in humidity control. The softness of the japanese Saya necessitates a specialized draw that emphasizes the ridge of the sword instead of the blade.