Kyoketsu Shoge

The kyoketsu shoge, which means "to run about in the fields and mountains", is a double edged blade, This is attached to 12-18 feet of rope, chain, or hair which then ends in a small metal ball. It is thought to have developed before the more widely known kusarigama (sickle and chain).

Almost exclusively used by the ninja, the kyoketsu shoge had a multitude of useful applications. The blade could be used for pulling slashes as well as thrusting stabs. The chain or cord, sometimes made from human hair or horsehair for strength and resiliency, could be used for climbing, ensnaring an enemy, binding an enemy and many such other uses. The long range of the weapon combined a cutting tool with the capability to strike or entangle an enemy at what he perceived to be a 'safe' distance out of the way. When skilled with this weapon it could be used to entangle a sword and rip from the opponents hands rendering him harmless.