The tonfa, also known as the tuifa or tong fa is a martial arts weapon. Though its origin is not known, it has a long history as a tool and a weapon. Today tonfas are used in conjunction with karate, usually in pairs.
Origins
The tonfa is a long baton made from hard wood with a side handle that juts out from the shaft at a 90 degree angle. Its origin goes back to Thailand and ancient China where it was first used as a tool for grinding rice. Later the tonfa was also used in Okinawa for the same purpose. Like many other farm implements in Okinawan culture, eventually the tonfa became a martial arts weapon.
Tonfa as a Weapon
As it became a popular part of Okinawan karate, for blocking and punching, the tonfa was modified. The handle was adjusted so that the body of the tonfa would rotate if it was spun while the handle was gripped. This expanded its range for striking and made it more difficult to block because of its circular motion.
Funtion
The tonfa is held by the short handle with the longer shaft running along the side of the forearm. When used for defense the shaft protects the arm and hand and the handle protects the thumb. It can also be held by each end of the shaft to block blows from other weapons such as swords. When used offensively, the tonfa can be swung in a circular motion so that the shaft strikes the target, or swung by the shaft so that the handle strikes the blow.
Tonfa in Modern Times
Today, the tonfa is used in jujutsu and karate, usually in pairs. The tonfa is so effective as a striking and blocking weapon that in modern times it has been incorporated into the police force, where it is used as the familiar police baton or nightstick.
Member Comments