The Aikido Jo, along with the bokken and tanto, is one of three primary wooden weapons used in the martial art practice of Aikido. It's offered here in 2 quality grades, 2 diameters and various custom lengths
The Jo has its origins in the Shindo Muso Ryu - a koryu or "old school" martial art. Of unassuming character, it's linked historically with the Japanese sword. When compared with a live blade, it has some distinct advantages that make up for its simple shape and lack of a cutting edge. Unlike a sword, a Jo may be unexpectedly wielded from either end or any point in between. It also has a few more inches of reach than a sword. Although many weapons arose as a defense against the sword, some very effectively, the Jo is most notable and is used in the disciplines of Aikido and Jodo. Staffs are inconspicuous and, owing to their elegance and simplicity, are preferred by some martial artists above all other weapons.
The traditional dimensions of the jo are 15/16" x 50.25" but often, practitioners customize the size to fit their overall height and preferences. See this link for more information: choosing a jo.
Many of Kingfisher's staff designs are based on the Japanese Jo, a historical 17th century wooden staff that became embedded in history as the unlikely weapon used in a legendary duel with Japan's most celebrated swordsman. For a fascinating account - see this link: The Wooden Staff of Japan
Hi Brad I received the bokken and OH MY GOD, it is beautiful I almost don't want to use it, it looks so good. The jo and tanto are awesome too. One question on the bamboo tsuba, when I try to fit it, it got to 3/4 of the length of where it's supposed to be at the beginning of the tsuka. I didn't want to jam it in there forcefully, so is there a proper technique to install the tsuba? I'm assuming that I put an o-ring on each side of the tsuba. Makers response-Thanks so much! Tsuba are custom fit to individual bokken. They are intended to be a little snug at first however, they will seat into the transition ramp after a bit of use.
Hello, I'm mailing you to let you know i received the 42" aikiken i ordered near the beginning of the month. it is of the best quality i've ever seen. awesome, awesome sword, thank you! the grain on the chisel top is wild, changing color from light to dark with movement and the patterns within the wood make me feel like i'm handling a much more expensive piece of art. i hope to take care of it well enough to hand it down to my children! i can't wait to order another one of your wooden weapons. hopefully soon! - Andrew