Iga Karuta with Kikko Tatami Taisho Yoroi

Iga Karuta with Kikko Tatami Yoroi is crafted by the best katchu-shi (Japanese armorer) at the Iron Mountain Armory in honor of Edo-period kacchu-shi Myochin Munechika 宗睦明神.  Myochin Munechika is credited with crafting the original tatami armor set, handcrafted between 1770 and 1779. The original Iga Tatami yoroi is owned by Hatsumi Masaaki of the Bujinkan Dojo stating it to be a fine example of shinobi (ninja) armor from the Iga province in Japan. Each kikko and karuta tatami yoroi plate (playing card sized folding armor plate) is shaped, cut and then assembled carefully by hand. The plates are then linked together with double linked kusari (chainmail) for a strong hold and added protection.  This unique tatami yoroi features a removable brass circle maedate (crest). The kote (armor sleeves) are crafted with kikko (hexagonal armor plates) for maximum protection from slicing and strikes, while only slightly reducing mobility.

The karuta zukin (armored hood), like the kikko tatami do flexes and folds with ease, while offering great protection.  The tatami yoroi can be worn over existing armor, as armor by itself and even hidden under the clothing, making it a perfect style of armor for shinobi (ninja).  The top armor plates of the do (cuirass) are joined with vertical tsutsu (hinge) and horizontal with odoshi (lacing) to maximize flexibility while not jeopardizing protection. Each kikko and karuta armor plate space is filled with kuzari (chainmail) to continue the maximum flexibility and protection.  All of these features work together, making this Iga Tatami Taisho Yoroi the more superior tatami set known.

The Taisho katchu-shi at Iron Mountain Armory will be honored to handcraft your very own custom iga tatami yoroi with the listed options.  

Features:  Taisho Quality

• Traditional design from original set
• Traditional crafting and materials
• Custom order options available

Your custom Iga Karuta with Kikko Tatami Taisho Yoroi will be handcrafted by the skilled katchû-shi (armorers) at Iron Mountain Armory. Please allow at least 8 to 10 weeks for custom handcrafting of this foldable shinobi ninja armor.

Accessories:

• Hikitate Eboshi – Add a traditional cloth hat to your order, traditionally worn by Samurai
• Sarashi Belt – A traditional long cotton belt, used by Samurai to to secure their katana
• Waraji Sandals – Bamboo straw sandals commonly used by samurai
• Waraji-Gake – Traditional type of Japanese sock that can be worn together with the Waraji sandals
• Tabi Socks – Two toe section sock for use with sandals
• Yugake – Traditional samurai gloves

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References: Arms and Armor of the Samurai: The History of Weaponry in Ancient Japan  /    The Samurai: Warriors of Medieval Japan, 940-1600  /  Samurai: The Code of the Warrior   /