Bethlehem Karate Academy

The Sai

The Sai is usually made of steel or metal about 18 to 22 inches in length.  The Sai was originally devised as a policing tool for the protection of the King.  They were also used in self defense against the swords.  Often three Sai were carried, one in each hand and the third in the waistband in reserve.  The traditional use of the Sai was used to pick up wheat or grass as a pitchfork.

 

The parts of the Sai

1. Tsukagashira – Handle butt

2. Tsuka – Handle

3. Moto - center point between the side guard

4. Yoko – Side guards

5. Tsume – Side guard tip

6. Monouchi - the blade of the sai

7. Saki - the very tip of the sai blade