Martial Arts Weapons Information
Most martial arts weapons were developed from farm tools. According to the History of Japanese Weapons, Japan conquered the island of Okinawa in the early 17th century. The Japanese emperor declared it illegal for citizens to own weapons, so the Okinawans developed self-defense techniques using simple implements.
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Bo
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The bo is a 6-foot wooden staff. According to Weapons of Traditional Karate, the bo was used as a weapon by bushi (military warriors) and peasants. Bo movements allow the practitioner to disarm a swordsman from a safe distance and counterstrike from various angles.
Sai
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The sai is a three-pronged implement that was used by farmers to dig in rice patties. Usually used in pairs, the sai's long middle prong can stab, and the shorter side prongs can hook an attacker's wrist and dislodge a weapon
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Nunchuku
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The nunchuku is made from two 1-foot pieces of hardwood held together by a string. It was used by farmers to beat rice. It can be used to strike, choke or lock up a limb.
Tonfa
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Originally used to grind beans or rice, the tonfa is made of wood nearly the length of a forearm with a knob at one end. Typically used in pairs, the tonfa can be twirled out to strike or thrust forward to reinforce a punch.
Kama
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The kama is composed of a sickle-shaped blade attached to a wooden handle. It was originally used to harvest rice and cut back tall grass. Often used in pairs, kama can hook or slice an attacker's body, or deflect an attack.
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