Wooden Weapons

Wooden Weapons for Martial Arts Training

In Matayoshi Kobudo, students train with a variety of wooden weapons. Some of these include blades or other metallic elements, like the Kama or the Nunti Bo. Here’s an overview:

Primary Wooden Weapons:

  • Bo – A long staff
  • Tunkua – A weapon with handles
  • Nunchaku – Connected sticks
  • Eku – An oar-like weapon
  • Sansetsu Kon – A three-section staff

 

Mixed Material Weapons (Covered under Metal Weapons): These weapons combine wood with metal components:

  • Sai – Short metal tridents
  • Nunti Bo – Staff with a dagger end
  • Kama – Handled sickles
  • Tinbe and Nata – Shield and machete
  • Kuwa – Garden Hoe
  • Manji – Unique sai variant
  • Matayoshi Sai – Manji Sai variant

 

Wood Selection for Wooden Weapons

In the UK, Red Oak is a popular choice due to its weight and shock resistance. Here are other wood options:

  • Ash – Strong and affordable
  • Hickory – Highly durable
  • White Oak – Resilient but prone to warping
  • Purple Heart – Strong with a vibrant appearance
  • Kuba – From the Chinese palm tree

Exotic Woods: Occasionally used for smaller weapons, such as the Japanese Tanto (dagger):

  • Cocobolo
  • Green Heart
  • Snake Wood
  • Ebony
  • Lignum Vitae (Iron Wood)

These exotic woods are rare, valuable, and typically chosen for speciality items.

 

Buying Quality Wooden Weapons

Many wooden weapons in the UK are imported from Taiwan and are mass-produced. Here’s what to check to ensure quality:

  1. Appearance: Inspect for straightness by rolling the weapon on the floor to ensure it rolls true. Examine all joints on items like Tunkua, Kama, and Nunti Bo.
  2. Wood Condition: Look for cracks, splinters, or resin-filled areas, which may indicate weaknesses.
  3. Bend Test: Apply light pressure to test flexibility. If it breaks easily, it’s poorly made and could pose a risk during training.

 

With proper selection and care, wooden weapons can provide a safe, durable experience for martial arts training.

 

Preparing Wooden Weapons for Optimal Handling

Many wooden weapons come unfinished or coated with varnish, which can make them feel lifeless and harder to grip. Proper preparation can greatly improve the weapon’s feel and longevity. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Remove Varnish and Smooth the Surface for Certain Weapons
    Some cheaper weapons may need to have their surface prepared. Begin by sanding down the weapon to remove any varnish. Use a progression of sandpaper, from coarse to fine, depending on the weapon’s condition. You may also use fine steel wool for a smooth finish. Sand evenly by rotating the weapon and varying the length of your strokes. After sanding, inspect the weapon carefully for any cracks or splits. If these are present, avoid using the weapon, especially for partner training.
  2. Clean the Surface
    Once you’ve achieved a smooth surface, use a “tack cloth” to wipe away any dust left from sanding. This ensures a clean, dust-free surface for oil application.
  3. Apply Nourishing Oil
    Choose a wood-nourishing oil like Linseed Oil, Danish Oil, or Tung Oil. Apply the oil to a cloth and rub it into the wood. Let the oil sit for 10–15 minutes, then wipe off any excess. Allow the weapon to rest overnight to let the wood fully absorb the oil.

    Alternatively, you can soak the weapon in a dedicated oil bath for several days. This method deeply nourishes the wood, making it resilient and enhancing its natural grain.

After treatment, the weapon’s grain should stand out, and it will feel vibrant and responsive in your hands. Regular oiling helps maintain this quality over time.

 

Wooden Weapon Maintenance Guide

Wooden weapons can dry out quickly, especially in heated indoor environments, so regular maintenance is essential to preserve their integrity and performance. Here’s a guide to keeping your weapons in top condition:

  1. Regular Oiling and Sanding
    Every 6 months, if needed lightly sand the weapon with fine-grade sandpaper. Then apply a fresh coat of oil to the surface. This may need to be done more or less frequently depending upon the temperature and humidity of the country they are being used in.  
  2. Wipe Down After Use
    Before and after each use, wipe the weapon with a clean cloth to remove dirt, sweat, and oils. This helps prevent grime buildup, which can affect the wood’s condition.
  3. Proper Storage
    Store each weapon in its own bag to protect it from dust, damage, and contamination. For longer weapons like the Bo, Nunti, and Ueku, lay them flat, store them in a purpose-built vertical rack, or suspend them in a carry case. Avoid leaning them against walls, as this can cause warping over time.
  4. Extra Care After Outdoor Use
    After using your weapon outdoors, clean it thoroughly, as exposure to elements can accelerate wear.

Proper care will extend the life of your wooden weapons and help maintain their look and performance for years.

Pre-Use Safety Check for Tunkua and Nunchaku

Tunkua

Before using your Tunkua, ensure that the grip is securely attached to the main shaft. Low-quality Tunkua grips can become loose over time, posing a risk to you and others in the dojo. Always check for stability to avoid any accidents.

Nunchaku

Nunchaku should be maintained like other wooden weapons, with special attention to the string. If your nunchaku arrives untied, follow the video tutorial below to properly rethread it. Use a Triple String method for a secure connection between the two shafts. If your nunchaku is pre-threaded, consider rethreading it with high-quality nylon string to enhance durability.

Before each practice:

  • Inspect for cracks or fraying, especially around the string.
  • Test the strength of the string by giving it a firm pull to confirm it’s secure.

Taking these precautions will help ensure safe and effective practice with your Tunkua and Nunchaku.

 

How to Triple String Nunchaku