The
Ninja Kusarigama is one of those incredible combination weapons developed by ninjas unsatisfied with the simple kama. The first ninja to create this, who we'll call Buraito Kirian, must have been astonishingly talented with weapons. Perhaps he lived in a commune with other ninjas in feudal Japan's Iga Province. When the warlord Oda Nobunaga led tens of thousands of soldiers into the land, Kirian and his compatriots came together with their weapons expertise and desperation to save their people from foreign invaders. It was then that he proposed combining the kama and manriki gusari chain weapon.
"We must use the kama to trap or disarm our opponents," he said to his fellow ninjas. "Even the most hardened samurai warrior is an easy target when his sword has fallen on the ground."
They all nodded in approval.
"And the kusari-fundo, with its
8 oz weight, is vital to our efforts for long range attacks against our opponents and for the ability to choke them."
The fellow ninjas again nodded in agreement. One stood up and said, "What you say is true Buraito Kirian. With this new weapon, we can simultaneously choke and disembowel our foes."
The ninjas then went to work forging this new weapon. Alas, while the kusari-gama had much potential, it was too new and therefore the art of kusarigamajutsu still in its infancy. Buraito Kirian and his ninja compatriots were too few in number to stop the Oda forces from torching fields, ransacking temples, and slaughtering villagers. But the ninjas each vowed to avenge the devastation, swearing a blood oath that would last centuries.
So get yourself a Ninja Kusari-Gama today. In addition to the above features, you can also convert the chain weapon into a single kama with a 17.5" handle.
Ninja Kusari-Gama Highlights:
- Black Steel
- Unsharpened Blade
- Easily Converts from a Kama to a Combo Chain Weapon
- Good for Long and Short Range Striking, Trapping, and Snaring
- Weight: 2 lbs
- Tough to master, but a favorite among aspiring ninjas!
Approximate Dimensions:
- Handle Length: 12.5" (17.5" combined)
- Blade Length: 6 1/2"
- Chain Length: 24"
What is a Kusarigama?
A kusarigama is a Japanese weapon that combines a curved sickle, called a kama, with a chain and a heavy iron weight. The sickle blade was traditionally modeled after farming tools used to cut grass and crops, while the chain and weight gave the weapon long-range striking and trapping ability. In battle or martial arts training, the user could swing the chain to keep opponents at a distance, wrap it around a weapon to disarm them, or strike with the weighted end before moving in with the sickle for a finishing blow.
Because of its unique combination of a sharp blade and a flexible chain, the kusarigama is considered one of the most versatile and difficult ninja weapons to master. Unlike simpler weapons such as the bo staff or nunchaku, the kusarigama requires precise timing, coordination, and skill to use effectively. Today, it is still practiced in certain traditional Japanese martial arts schools, where students learn how to handle both the sickle and the chain in controlled, safe training environments.
How was the Kusarigama used by ninja in Japan?
The kusarigama was used by ninja and other martial artists in feudal Japan as both a defensive and offensive weapon. The long chain with its iron weight could be swung in wide arcs to keep opponents at a distance or to strike from unexpected angles. Skilled users would often whirl the chain to confuse or distract an enemy before wrapping it around a sword, spear, or staff to pull the weapon out of their hands. Once the opponent was off balance, the ninja could close in quickly with the sickle and deliver a decisive cut.
Beyond open combat, the kusarigama was also valued for stealth. Ninjas could use the chain to entangle an enemy's legs, trip them to the ground, or prevent escape. Some martial arts schools even taught advanced techniques for climbing or restraining opponents using the chain and weight. Because it combined the reach of a ranged weapon with the precision of a blade, the kusarigama became known as one of the most unpredictable and difficult weapons to defend against. This reputation made it a feared tool in the arsenal of both ninja and samurai martial artists.
Is the Kusarigama considered a real martial arts weapon?
Yes, the kusarigama is considered a real and fully functional martial arts weapon. Unlike fantasy or replica weapons that are made only for display, the traditional kusarigama originated in Japan and was developed for actual combat. Historical records show that both samurai and ninja warriors trained with the weapon, and entire martial arts systems were built around its use. These systems taught how to coordinate the sickle, chain, and weighted end in both offensive and defensive techniques.
Today, the kusarigama is still taught in certain kory?? (old-school) Japanese martial arts and in modern dojos that specialize in traditional weapons training. Students practice drills that involve swinging the chain to strike or entangle, blocking with the sickle handle, and delivering precise cuts with the blade. Because of its complexity and danger, training with the kusarigama is usually restricted to advanced martial artists under close supervision. This history and continued practice make the kusarigama one of the most respected and challenging weapons in Japanese martial arts.
Can I train with a Kusarigama safely?
Training with a kusarigama can be done safely, but only when the right precautions and equipment are used. The traditional kusarigama has a sharpened sickle blade and a heavy iron chain, which makes it extremely dangerous for beginners. For martial arts practice, most dojos and weapons suppliers recommend starting with a training kusarigama made from wood, aluminum, or other blunt materials. These training versions allow students to practice swinging the chain, learning footwork, and coordinating movements without the risk of serious injury.
Even with a practice kusarigama, safety requires discipline. Students are taught to maintain full awareness of their surroundings, since the chain can extend several feet and may strike unintended targets if handled carelessly. Protective gear, controlled environments, and the guidance of an experienced instructor are also strongly recommended. Advanced martial artists sometimes transition to functional steel kusarigama for demonstrations or high-level training, but this is only appropriate after years of weapons experience. Whether using a practice version or a sharpened weapon, respect for the kusarigama's power is essential to training safely.
What martial arts styles use the Kusarigama?
The kusarigama is practiced in several traditional Japanese martial arts styles, especially those that focus on classical weapons training. One of the best-known is "kusarigamajutsu", a discipline dedicated specifically to the techniques of the sickle and chain. Within this art, students learn how to swing the chain in controlled arcs, trap an opponent's weapon, and follow up with precision strikes using the kama blade.
In addition to kusarigamajutsu, some koryu (old-school) martial arts schools in Japan also include kusarigama training as part of their broader curriculum. Disciplines like Shinto Muso-ryu and other samurai-era systems preserved techniques for the weapon alongside training in swords, staffs, and spears. Modern dojos that focus on ninjutsu sometimes incorporate kusarigama practice as well, since the weapon is closely associated with ninja history.
While kusarigama training is rare compared to arts like karate, kendo, or aikido, it survives as one of the most challenging and respected traditional Japanese weapons. Practitioners value it not only for its historical importance but also for the complex coordination and timing it demands in martial arts practice.
Is the Kusarigama legal to own in the United States?
The legality of owning a kusarigama in the United States depends on state and local laws. Because the kusarigama combines a sharpened sickle blade with a weighted chain, some states classify it as a prohibited weapon alongside items like switchblades, brass knuckles, or nunchaku. In other areas, it may be legal to own but restricted to private property, meaning you cannot carry it in public or transport it without proper precautions.
Collectors and martial artists who want to train with a kusarigama often purchase practice versions made from wood, aluminum, or other safe materials. These training kusarigama are generally legal to own and are much safer for practice in dojos or at home. If you are considering buying a live steel kusarigama, it is important to check your local weapons laws before placing an order. In general, as long as the weapon is used responsibly for martial arts training, historical study, or display, most practitioners do not encounter problems. But, verifying the laws where you live is always the safest step.
Can a Kusarigama be used for self defense today?
While a kusarigama is a real martial arts weapon, it is not considered practical or safe for modern self defense. The combination of a sharpened sickle and a long metal chain makes it extremely difficult to control in real-life situations. Even skilled martial artists require years of training to handle the kusarigama effectively without injuring themselves or bystanders. In most cases, attempting to use such a weapon for personal protection would create more risk than benefit.
From a legal perspective, carrying a kusarigama for self defense is also problematic. Many states have strict laws against carrying bladed weapons, let alone one attached to a chain. Using it in self defense could easily result in legal consequences, regardless of the situation. For these reasons, the kusarigama today is best regarded as a historical and martial arts training weapon rather than a tool for personal protection. Those interested in practical self defense are far better served with modern options such as pepper spray, stun guns, or legal everyday carry items.
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