Weapons - Kama
鎌
Other names:
kai, rice sickle. Note that the weapon created by attaching a
chain to the end of the kama's handle is |
|
called kusarigama.
Long-handled sickles, typically with
larger blades and used for harvesting wheat and oats, are
usually |
|
described as war scythes. Our experience is that such scythes
are comparatively slow, tiring to wield, tactically limited |
|
(there's only the one more or less horizontal cut) BUT cheap and
effective in a group if accompanied by pikes.
|
| Versions
taught: none yet. Note: we do NOT teach
the Japanese Kanigawa and Tozan kata. This is NOT a canonical |
| weapon. Recommendations: can
be among the first edged weapons learned. Cost: varies quite a bit
with the material: |
| $12 to $18. We are
not fans of the versions with perforated blades. The modern
angled blade (called a natagama) is a fine |
| alternative - it is likely
structurally superior. |
