Since Iai-Do is the art of "fast drawing" with the sword, the Katana or Japanese samurai sword is the main weapon on which the practice of the art is centered. Beginners are introduced to the practice of the art using the Iai-To or katana with a dull blade for safety reasons. As the practitioner progresses and becomes more skillful maneuvering the katana, he/she will be authorized to be able to train with a Shinken or katana with real life blade. In a traditional Dojo this natural progression will happen by the reccommendation of the Sensei of the Dojo.

The Iai-Do practitioner will learn all the Kihon Waza (basic techniques) and Kata (forms) with the katana for the proper execution, but his/her training will be lacking of essence or real Budo meaning if the training does not include real contact. This type of practice will be conducted utilizing a Bokken or wooden sword. The nature of the material of the bokken will allow the Budo-ka to practice his/her techniques over a makiwara without damaging it, and with a partner in a more safely manner.

It is the Iai-Do practitioner's duty to learn as soon as he/she joins a Dojo the proper etiquette to handle a Katana, outside and inside the Dojo. It is important to know how to properly transport the sword outside the Dojo, how to carry it inside the Dojo, how to show respect to it at all times, how to clean it, and to keep it safe for everyone at the Dojo.