The Jo staff, along with bokken and tanto, are fundamental wooden practice weapons used in the martial art, Aikido. This EnhancedJo is our highest quality version, offered in 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
