Tetsu Jingasa are light weight “Military Hats” reserved for samurai and ashigaru. “Kasa” meaning hat and “Jin” meaning military. When the two words are combined, it is said “Jin-gasa“. Tetsu is the word used for iron, but became synonymous with steel as metal forging improved throughout Japan. The Jingasa was a light weight battle hat worn by samurai warriors of all ranks. Most jingasa were made from layers of paper, leather and/or hemp, glued together and then lacquered to hold the shape and waterproof the material. Specif shapes, designs and materials were often reserved for different class of samurai and could also differ depending on the Daimyo’s wealth. This particular Tetsu Jingasa style is a Taisho class “battle hat” most commonly used by the higher ranking samurai, warrior class. Although tetsu is slightly heavier, they offer the most protection.
Iron Mountain Armory crafts this tetsu jingasa from a high quality, light weight, .8 mm laminated steel and features fukurin (brass edge) to offer the most protection, comfort and elegance. Most military hats are black and feature the samurai family kamon (symbol) or the mon of the Daimyo he serves, painted in gold. Keeping with this tradition, Iron Mountain Armory will craft your jingasa with the option to add your own custom mon or the mon of your favorite samurai clan, engraved in brass. A brass kanamono resembling a tehen kanamono will be adorned at the top. A kasa jirushi no kan (ring) can be added at the back, to hold the agemaki bow upon request.
Like the Ichimonji Gasa, Ensui Jingasa, Mekure Toppai Gata Jingasa and Gashira Bajo Jingasa the Tetsu Kasa Taisho Jingasa features 4 loops attached to the inside. The loops support the rope which holds the samurai battle hat to the samurai’s head. To help hold it in place and add comfort when wearing, a small pad is added at the top of the head. With these features the Samurai’s military battle hat will fit snugly and can even be used while on horse back, as long as the samurai was not riding with haste. The jingasa could also be used as a shield/weapon while in combat.
Features: Taisho Class crafting.
- Traditional laminated multi-plate design.
- Optional paint colors and mon.
- Dimensions: 30x36x10cm
| Our skilled katchû-shi (armorers) at the Iron Mountain Armory will need at least 1 to 2 weeks, depending on options selected, and other scheduled orders, for the custom handcrafting of your reproduction samurai item. |
| For more information, please review our Order Options Explained, Glossary Terms or FAQ Pages. You can also Contact Us directly. We are always happy to be of service. |
SHIPPING & DELIVERY
At first I was hesitant because it is kind of expensive for such a “simple” jingasa. But after reading reviews and watching videos I decided to make the jump and ordered the tetsu jingasa. I must say the level of quality is quite impressive and can see why others have given 5 stars for product and services. Speaking of which, the customer support is 2nd to none. Fast response to emails and phone calls with follow up pictures of order progress. Who else does that? No one that I know of. 5 stars all around.