Bethlehem Karate Academy

The Nunchaku

The Nunchaku was usually made of two pieces wood about 6 to 8 inches in length and 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.  The two pieces of wood were connected with rope or chain.  The Nunchaka was originally used as a horse bit or to thresh grains.  As a weapon the Nunchaka was not as popular against the sword or the Bo, but  against the Tunfa or Kama it had a better chance.  The end of the weapon could be used to strike the opponent, while the rope could be used to choke or trap the opponent.

 

1. Himo - Connecting rope

2. Gedan tsukagashira - the end of the handle nearest the rope

3. Ana - the opening through wihich the rope is threaded

4. Jokon - upper area of the handle

5. Moto - the center of the handle

6. Kikon - lower area of the handle

7. Ushiro tsukagashira - then end of the handle furthest forom the rope