NUNCHAKU

 

 

 

The Nunchaku - pronounced, noon-chah-koo (flail) is believed to have come from an agricultural tool that was used for pulverizing grain. This origin has been hotly debated for many years and has never been resolved. Others believe that the Nunchaku has other origins or another way 

A weapon constructed of two equal lengths of wood and connected together by a short length of rope or chain the nunchaku can be whipped or twirled in a manner that can generate great speed and powerful blows. Lacking any sharp edges for cutting, or sharp points for stabbing, the nunchaku like the tonfa is used primarily to pound ones opponent into submission. Either held in one hand or two the nunchaku is effective as an offensive or defensive weapon.
 

 

1. HIMO - Rope
2. KONTO - Top
3. ANA - Hole
4. JOKON BU - Upper Area
5. CHUKON BU - Middle Area
6. KIKON BU - Lower Area
7. KONTEI - Bottom

A true product of Okinawa the nunchaku was easily dismantled and hidden or disguised as something else at a time when weapons were forbidden by the Japanese military.
 
Two examples of nunchaku katas practiced today are Maezato no Nunchaku and Akamine no Nunchaku.

 

TRADITIONAL PROPER WAY TO STRING NUNCHAKU

Below is the original traditional way to string Nunchaku. There are practical combat related reasons for it to be tied in this fashion. This method is used by all members of the All Japan Buki Jutsu Federation. A Nunchaku speed tying contest is held annually. The current record for tying is just under 30 seconds, without the use of a paper clip.

  • Braided nylon cord - about two feet in length.

  • Candle wax

  • Paper clip

  • Bic lighter - to light candle and singe the ends

  • Scissors / Knife

 

 

SAKURA NUNCHAKU REPAIR KIT

PROPER WAY TO TIE NUNCHAKU

Cutaway view 2 Cutaway view 1
 Cutaway views
 
Wax application points
 Before tying, place candle wax on the points shown to ease tying and reduce friction during use.

DO NOT USE OIL
 
A - 1 1. Follow the diagram. Use a paper clip if needed A - 2 2. Push the end back up through the top.
 
A - 3 3. Pull cord tight here and make sure the loose ends are even B - 1 4. Start B the same way as A
 
B - 2 5. Insert the other end as shown.

Adjust the distance between the heads of the Nunchaku now before tying the final knot. One fist width is the standard.

 B - 3 6. A standard double knot is more than sufficient. You can clip the ends and singe the tips to finish.

Pull the Nunchaku apart firmly to seat the rope and knot.
 
B - 4 7. An alternate way to tuck and finish the ends. You can make another double knot on the other side.
A - TiedB - Tied
Cutaway Nunchaku made by Master Craftsman and SSK Student Norbert Jaeger

 

Link to a Nunchaku Club

NEO Nunchaku Combat Club London UK