Bo Staff
The bo, or stick, is probably one of the first weapons that mankind used to defend
or hunt. It could easily be found, was not too difficult to handle and could be used
for multiple purposes.
In Okinawa, the bo probably originated from a farm tool called tenbin. It is a stick
held across the shoulders on which fish or water buckets could be hung.
It could also be originated from walking sticks monks used to ease hiking and
eventually defend themselves.
The bo, or stick, is probably one of the first weapons that mankind used to defend
or hunt. It could easily be found, was not too difficult to handle and could be used
for multiple purposes.
In Okinawa, the bo probably originated from a farm tool called tenbin. It is a stick
held across the shoulders on which fish or water buckets could be hung.
It could also be originated from walking sticks monks used to ease hiking and
eventually defend themselves.
Nunchaku
There are many theories regarding the origin of this weapon.
It is thought that the nunchaku descends from an Okinawan horse bit. It
has also been said to have been used as a rice flail or a tool for barking
banana trees.
There are many theories regarding the origin of this weapon.
It is thought that the nunchaku descends from an Okinawan horse bit. It
has also been said to have been used as a rice flail or a tool for barking
banana trees.
| A brief listing of a few of the traditional Okinawan weapons we practice: |
Tonfa
The tonfa, used in pairs, are wooden weapons 18 to 24 inches long.
Handles mounted about 4 inches from the end allow the tonfa to spin,
extending the length and adding momentum to the strike. The shape of
the tonfa varies from round, half-round, square or a combination. The
tonfa can be reversed so that the handles can be used to strike or hook.
Although several theories are surmised as to the origin of this weapon, the
most commonly believed one is that it is from the handle of a grain mill.
Tonfa’s unique shape is suitable for blocking and striking.
The tonfa, used in pairs, are wooden weapons 18 to 24 inches long.
Handles mounted about 4 inches from the end allow the tonfa to spin,
extending the length and adding momentum to the strike. The shape of
the tonfa varies from round, half-round, square or a combination. The
tonfa can be reversed so that the handles can be used to strike or hook.
Although several theories are surmised as to the origin of this weapon, the
most commonly believed one is that it is from the handle of a grain mill.
Tonfa’s unique shape is suitable for blocking and striking.
| Traditional Weapons Classes are a great compliment to any Martial Arts Program. Our classes are held weekly on Tuesdays. Check the Schedule of Classes for more info. |
| 331 Main Street Vacaville, CA 95688 707-446-2454 |