WEAPONS
Marian K. Stricker
Black Belt Magazine
Karate means "empty hand," so karate weapons may seem like a contradiction in terms. But though weapons are not obligatory in this martial art, their use can double your strength, enhance your coordination, and make you a superior empty-handed fighter.
"Okinawan karate and weapons are like brother and sister," explains karate and kobudo (Okinawan weapons) expert Tadashi Yama****a. "They complement each other."
The physical conditioning that weapons offer karate stylists has increased their popularity in recent years, and people are eager to learn more about their history and current applications. "You try different foods," says Yama****a, "you must also try different weapons to see which are best for you. If you don't try, how do you know?"
Following is a list of some of the more common weapons of karate training, including their histories and current and traditional uses. You're sure to find the one that suits you.
KAMA (SICKLE)
History: In 1470, when traditional weapons were confiscated by the Japanese military, Okinawan commoners utilized the kama as a fighting blade, often attaching a chain to the base for greater reach. This longer weapon was known as a kusarigama.
Traditional use: The kama was originally used for cutting grass. In close range fighting, the sickle colid be used to trap an opponent's weapon, or for striking.
Current use: The kama is most commonly used in kata (forms) competition and demonstrations. The forms include circular movements which improve blocking and countering techniques.
NUNTE
History: Developed by Okinawan farmers, the multi-pronged nunte was usually placed on the end of a staff to form a spear, but it couid also be thrown, or handled as a dagger or mace.
Traditional use: In its most basic form, the nunte was a fishing tool. As a dagger or part of a spear, the nunte's center prong was used for striking, while its arms couid also catch and hold an opponent's weapon.
Current use: The nunte is now found most often in kata competitions and demonstrations, either in the hand or at the end of a staff.
BO (staff)
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 sixfoot length made it an apt weapon against swordsmen, disarming the opponent while allowing the user to remain at a safe distance.
Traditional use: The bo evolved from poles balanced across the shoulders to carry water or other loads. As a fighting instrument, it allowed liocking and striking against a range of weapons.
Current use: Now part of the budo (martial ways), the bo is still used in kata performance. Physical conditioning with the bo improves balance and upper-body strength.
SAI
History: Present in Okinawan and other Asian weapon arsenals, the sai (pronged truncheon) was used to stab, block, trap and punch. Practitioners often carried a sai in each hand, and a "spare"' at the belt. The weapon could also be thrown.
Traditional use: The sai is believed to have originated with the pitchfork. As a weapon, it was used in conjunction with various karate stances and techniques, and in defense against sword attacks.
Current use: With dulled points, the sai is now a karate training weapon. It tests accuracy in striking and quick block-and-counter techniques.