Brief History of the Nunchaku
History :
Developed in the 17th century by Okinawans after the Japanese gained occupation
of their land, the nunchaku was one of many harmless looking farm tools
used as weapons for self defense. The nunchaku were made of two hardwood
sticks held together by a rope or chain. Originally the rope was made of
braided horse hair.
Traditional Use :
The nunchaku was an agricultural tool used for threshing grain, wheat and
rice. As a weapon the nunchaku was used in conjunction with various stances,
strikes and blocking techniques. Strikes were made over hand, under hand,
from the left and right side often incorperating a figure eight motion.
A good martial artist would be equally skillful with his left and right
hand. The sticks could be used for spearing, striking and blocking. The
rope or chain could choke, block or trap.
Current Use :
The nunchaku is a popular weapon for demonstrations. It is also used as
a weapon for self defense for karate stylists and law enforcement agencies.