Kama

Kama

Kama (鎌 or かま) are Okinawan and Japanese weapons that resemble traditional farming devices similar to a scythe. It was originally a farming implement, used for reaping crops. During the annexation of Okinawa by the Satsuma, all traditional weapons were outlawed. This led to the development of the kama and other Kobudo weapons. It is sometimes known as a 'Hand Scythe'.

When a kunai and chain, ball and chain or bare chain itself are attached to the end of the Kama, it becomes a kusari-gama, a formidable (if hard to master) weapon because its range makes it extremely difficult for opponents to approach the wielder.

When the student of Kenshin Kan begins training with Kama, he enters a whole new dimension in weapons. Kama are somewhat unique in kobudo as they are a cutting weapon. Up to now, none of the weapons utilized in kobudo training have been bladed and this adds a new dimension. Kama are a vicious weapon and training with them is not for the feint of heart or the poorly focused student. A person can seriously injure themselves, as well as their opponent, with kama so the training with them is of the utmost seriousness.