The Bo
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History: The Bo is one of the five weapons systematized by the early Okinawan developers of the style known as te (hand). In feudal Japan it was part of the bugei (early Japanese martial arts) and was used by samurai, priests and commoners alike. Its six foot length made it an apt weapon against swordsman, disarming the opponent, as well as dislodging a man on horseback, while allowing the user to remain at a safe distance. Traditional use:The Bo evolved from a pole laid across the shoulders to carry water or other loads (fruits or vegetables). As a fighting instrument, it allowed blocking and striking against a range of weapons. Current use:Now part of the budo, the Bo is still used in kata performance, as well as Bo tai Bo training. Physical conditioning with the Bo improves balance and upper body strength. Remember a Bo can be found anywhere: a pool stick, tree limb, broom, mop, etc.. |
The Sai
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History: The Sai are present in Okinawan and in other Asian weapon arsenals. The Sai was used to stab, block, trap and punch. Practitioners often carried a Sai in each hand and a spare in the belt. An Okinawan could throw the third sai at an opponent and still maintain the other two for sword defense. Traditional use:The Sai is believed to have originated from basically nothing more than a digging tool used to pull out native potatoes and yams. As a weapon, it was used in conjunction with various karate stances, techniques and in defense against sword attacks. Current use:With sometimes dulled points, the Sai is now a karate training weapon. It tests accuracy in striking and quick block-and-counter techniques. It also develops strong shoulders, forearms and wrist strength. |
The Kama
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History: In 1470, when traditional weapons were confiscated by the Japanese military, Okinawan commoners utilized the Kama as a fighting blade. They used the Kama in place of the sword, often attaching a chain to the base for greater reach, known as a kusarigama. Traditional use:The Kama was originally used for cutting grass or sugar cane. In close range fighting, the sickle could be used to trap an opponent's weapon, followed by cutting and slashing with the other. Current use:The Kama is most commonly used in Kata competition and demonstrations although it is also still used in Okinawa today as a farming tool (many road maintenance crews use them for cutting and clearing brush). The forms include circular movements which improve blocking and countering techniques. This weapon will strengthen the wrist and forearm. |
The Tonfa
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History: The Tonfa was developed as a weapon by the Okinawans, specifically for use in conjunction with karate. Two Tonfa were often used simultaneously and were very efficient against armed assailants. Traditional use:A well crank was originally used to bring water up from a well. As a bean or rice grinder handle, the Tonfa's circular movements as a farm implement evolved into its rotating strikes as a weapon. The side of the Tonfa was used for blocking and the ends for direct punches. Current use:Now an advanced karate training aid, the Tonfa aids in development block-and-strike strategies and upper-body strength. It is also used by many police departments throughout the United States and is commonly referred to as a nightstick or policeman's baton. It is technically called a PR-24. |
The Nunchaku
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History: The Nunchaku was developed in the 17th century by Okinawans after the Japanese gained occupation of their land. The Nunchaku was one of many harmless looking weapons implemented at the time. The two equal sections were originally held together by horse hair and could be used against armed or unarmed assailants. Traditional use:The Nunchaku was originally an agricultural tool used for thrashing grain, some believe it was part of a plow horses bridle. As a weapon, it could be used for spearing or striking and the horse hair rope could choke, block, or trap. It was an excellent weapon for distraction. Current use:The Nunchaku is a popular weapon for demonstrations. It is also used as a weapon of self-defense by martial artists and some law enforcement agencies. It is also illegal to carry in some states! |
The Ekku
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History: The Ekku was and still is used as nothing more than a boat oar. Because the Okinawans were fisherman, this was a common device that was found around the beaches. Traditional use:The Ekku was very effective against the samurai warrior, because of it's length, they would be able to keep them at bay. Some techniques include: kicking the blade of the Ekku while in the sand, consequently throwing the sand into to eyes, using the blade to strike (similar to the samarai's sword) and using the opposite end to jab like the bo. Current use:The Ekku is mainly used by high level Kobudo practitioners and is not very often seen. Training with the Ekku develops coordination, upper body strength, and quickness. The same oar as we use in Kenshin Kan is the same oar they still use in the dragon boat races in Okinawa. |
