In tankendo, exponents use a 53-cm-long bamboo sword, less than half the length of those used in kendo. As tankendo was originally based on bayonet fighting, thrusts form the main mode of attack. With its thrilling up-close action, the martial art is gaining enthusiasts worldwide. 6th dan expert Baptiste Tavernier discusses the French influence on tankendo as well as the overall efficacy of short sword fighting, and we report from an international tankendo seminar with attendees from 15 nations.