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BÔ - “ROKU-SHAKU-BÔ”, this about 182cm tall stick is said to be the most important and most difficult weapon to handle in RYÛKYÛ KOBUDÔ. It was usually 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 trained. The original BÔ was made of red oak, is a little bit flexible and conical (the middle of the BÔ is the thickest part of it).
SAI - Trident forks made of metal, which are usually used as a pair in order to block, thrust or “pierce”. Originally com from China to Okinawa they have been weapons for ages.
ÊKU - paddles or oars, which were used by the Okinawan fishermen. The oras were handmade and their size depended on the person who made it. The 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.
KAMA - Widespread sickle with a sharp bent steel-leaf and a wooden handle, which is used by the people of Okinawa for a multiplicity of agricultural activities. It is normally used in pairs (NICHÔ-KAMA).
TINBÊ (shield) and RÔCHIN (dagger / short spear) - These were tools of the native fishermen. The shield was made of tortoises’ shells. The short spear was used to kill fish, when the nets were hauled in.
TEKKÔ - This was originally a metal horseshoe, which was carried inside the KIMONO to be able to defend in case of being attacked. Two horseshoes were tied together in order to develop a closed handle in an oval shape.
NUNCHAKU - In former times this weapon could have been used as threshing flail or as a bridle for horses, which could be hidden easily in the KIMONO. Swung in an 8-movement it could develop an enormous force to smash a warrior’s helmet.
TUNFA - This weapon was the handle of millstone, which could be taken away. Used in pairs and swung in an 8-movement this utensil could develop an unbelievable power. Sword attacks could also be blocked without any risks.
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