Sai:
Thought to have been some kind of digging tool or seed planter, originating with the pitchfork, the art and practice of the Okinawan sai is somewhat obscure. Whilst there may be some dispute in the interpretation of whether weapons were actually confiscated, it certainly seems that the samurai were not allowed to carry weapons in public and increasingly relied on kakushi buki (practice of concealed weapons) to defend themselves, their family and their property. The samurai popularly chose the sai (iron trident or dagger) for this purpose, often concealing as many as three in the sleeves of their kimono and in their obi. This short, slim weapon originally had straight 'wings' to ensure that clothing was not snagged when the sai was withdrawn for action.

As a self-defence system, the use of the sai was swift and effective. Over time, however, the sai appears to have been used mainly for endurance training and was incorporated into other disciplines. Today, it is regularly used as a karate training weapon and practitioners study how to grip the sai, how to use their wrist in flipping it and how to develop a more effective strike. Having only a short range, it is essential to employ skilled footwork when using the sai.

Nunchaku:
Comprising two lengths of hardwood connected by a cord of horsehair, the nunchaku was an early device used to beat corn. This became widely used as a very powerful weapon and, according to Oriental tradition, the longer and harder you practiced with it, the more of your spirit and character would be taken on by your nunchaku.

Also known as nunchucks, this weapon was extremely versatile and easily portable. Unsavoury tales of the ninja are associated with many weapons, but their use of the nunchaku became legendary. They could strangle an opponent, or execute joint locks, with the cord or chain between the two wooden sticks, as well as trap the blade of an attacking sword. Curiously, the nunchaku had been completely forgotten by the Japanese until the western world was introduced to the delights of Bruce Lee. In his movies, Lee used the nunchaku to spectacular effect and it soon became a popular weapon of choice with martial artists.

Now coming in a variety of sizes, materials and colour, this small lightweight weapon requires extensive practice and expertise.

Tonfa:
Basically, this was a 15th century wooden handle that fitted into a hole on the side of a millstone used to grind rice and other grains. Once disengaged from the millstone, it became a very effective weapon of defence. A tremendous striking force can be generated by spinning the tonfa around the short handle, but by using the long portion in conjunction with the short handle several arm locks can be effected. Often two tonfa were used together to provide an efficient method of defence from armed attackers.

The tonfa is often used as an advanced training aid in karate, helping to develop upper body strength as well as block and strike strategies. It has also become popular with American law enforcement agencies and police officers carry them as nightsticks or batons.