noun
Specifically the grip part of a sword, dagger, or similar bladed weapon. Not used for general tool handles like a hammer or kitchen knife.
刀の柄を握る。
Grip the hilt of the sword.
その短剣の柄には美しい装飾が施されていた。
The dagger's hilt was beautifully decorated.
握り can refer to a grip or handle in a broader sense, including sword hilts, but is less specific than 柄.
The kanji 柄 is used for handles in general, but the reading つか is specifically associated with sword hilts. The historical derivation of the reading is uncertain.