Mekugi are important parts of the Japanese sword. They hold the handle in place and act as a locking mechanism. Traditionally, swords only needed one mekugi. Most modern swords, however, require two. Our Mekugi are made of wood and cured as they have been for hundreds of years. This strengthens the item and makes it less prone to failure. [Dimensions] About 1" long and 0.2" wide (diameter) [Material] Traditionally carved from Smoked Wood [Sword Construction] Holds the tang and the tsuka hilt together, keeping your prized katana from falling apart [Strong] Cured and smoked to enhance the strength of the item [Quality] All of our products are made of the finest materials, and are packaged securely in our own warehouse