The Book of Five Rings by Miyamoto Musashi was written by the Kensei (Sword-Saint of Japan) during the final years of his life in order to preserve for his students his method of not only fighting, but the road map for the pursuit of what he refers to as the “true Way” of martial arts.
As with The Art of War from Sun Tzu, the Book of Five Rings by Musashi has been translated numerous times from the original language and multiple versions can be had today. The purpose of this undertaking is not to re-write the Book of Five Rings, but to take the lessons from nearly 400 years ago and apply them to today’s world where we do not carry swords, but guns.
Unlike The Art of War, the Book of Five Rings is not a “how to succeed in business” book. The Five Rings or five scrolls are about being victorious in one on one combat and seeking enlightenment through a thorough and unceasing pursuit of what the author calls “the spirit of the thing.” Whether swords and spears or pistols and rifles, the pursuit of the one true Way of the warrior is constant. This Study Guide was written to assist the dedicated student on their journey toward martial enlightenment.
The Book of Five Rings Study Guide for Modern Gunfighters is available right now on Amazon as a paperback, hardcover, Kindle version, as well as an audiobook. On April 7th 2026, this book was listed as the #1 Best Seller in the Shooting Sports category in Amazon books.