About the Author

Carl E. Long has trained in the arts of karate, Japanese shito-ryu, Okinawan kobudo, shindo muso ryu jojutsu, and iaido--the art of samurai swordsmanship. As the vice chairman and director for the Jikishin-Kai International, he is responsible for the training and certification of the instructors and schools throughout the United States, Canada, Central America, South America, and Europe. He lives in Kingston, Pennsylvania. Masayuki Shimabukuro has trained in the arts of judo, karate, Okinawan kobudo, Japanese shito-ryu, and iaido. He is the international director for the Nippon Kobudo Jikishin-kai martial arts organization and represents authentic Eishin-Ryu samurai swordsmanship worldwide. He holds the title of hanshi--the highest recognition in traditional Japanese martial arts--and has been named Black Belt magazine's Weapons Instructor of the Year. He is the author of Flashing Steel and Living Karate. He lives in San Diego.