Kyoketsu shoge

The Kyoketsu Shoge, which means "to run about in the fields and mountains", is a double edged blade, with another blade attached at 90 degrees to it. This is attached to roughly 18 feet of rope, chain, or hair which then ends in a large metal ring. 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.

Parts of a Kyoketsu Shoge:
Blade	Sichelklinge
Handle	Griff

External links

* [http://www.kihon.com/articles/kyoketsu.html Flash Article] The first article written for the web. Most articles cite this as a reference.
* [http://www.geocities.com/remipulwer/Budo/Chain-weapons/KyoketsuShoge/kshoge.html Html Article] Very well written article that references above article and adds info from 2003 training lessons.
* [http://www.themmazone.net/index.php?pr=Ninja-Shoge Article on parts and the use of the Shoge.]