Weapons of Ryukyu Kobudo

weap_bo“ROKU-SHAKU-BԔ, a staff of about 182cm length, is said to be the most important and most difficult weapon to handle in RYÛKYÛ KOBUDÔ. It was used for the daily work on the fields, and as a weapon, of course. Nowadays, there are 13 recognized BÔ-KATA, but many more than these are practiced. The original BÔ was made of red oak, is a little bit flexible and conical (the middle of the BÔ is the thicker than the tips).

SAI

weap_saiTrident forks made of metal, which are usually used as a pair in order to block, thrust or pierce. Originally come from China, they have been used as weapons for ages.

ÊKU

weap_ekuPaddles or oars, which were used by the Okinawan fishermen. The oars were handmade and their size depended on the person who made it. A typical ÊKU-technique is to thrust the oar in the ground in order to throw some sand into the opponent’s face, before he is able to attack.<br><br>

KAMA

weap_kamaThe sickle is a widespread weapon. It consists of a metal blade and a wooden handle. The Kama are used by the people of Okinawa for a number of agricultural activities. It is usually used in pairs (NICHÔ-KAMA).

TINBÊ und RÔCHIN

weap_tinbeTINBÊ (shield) and RÔCHIN (dagger / short spear) – These were tools of the native fishermen. The shield was made of tortoise shells. The short spear was used to kill fish, when the nets were hauled in.

TEKKÔ

weap_tekkoThis was originally a metal horseshoe, which was carried inside the KIMONO, to allow the carrier to defend himself in case of being attacked. Two horseshoes were tied together in order to form a closed handle of oval shape.

NUNCHAKU

weap_nunchakuIn former times this weapon would be used as threshing flail or as bridle for horses, which could be hidden easily inside the KIMONO. Swung in a figure-8-like movement, it could develop an enormous force to smash the helmet of any warrior.

TUNFA

weap_tonfaOriginally, this weapon is thought to have been derived from the wooden handle of a millstone. Taken out of the millstone, it could be swung in a figure-8-like movement developing a tremendous amount of power. Sword attacks could also be blocked without any risks.