7 Best Martial Arts Weapons (Ranked and Reviewed 2023)

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No martial arts training is complete without learning how to properly wield a weapon. Not only will this give you an extra layer of protection, but it can also help you score some serious points during competition. But with so many different martial arts weapons out there, it can be hard to know which ones are the best.

Best Martial Arts Weapons

Without further ado, here are the seven best martial arts weapons:

#1 Bokken

A bokken is a wooden sword that is often used in training. It is much lighter than a regular sword, making it ideal for practicing your swings and improving your form. Bokkens are also very durable, so you won’t have to worry about them breaking easily.

#2 Bo staff

The bo staff is a martial arts weapon that is made from wood or bamboo. It is typically around six feet long and is used to strike, jab, and block your opponent. Bo staffs are also sometimes used in forms and katas.

#3 Nunchaku

Nunchaku are two wooden or metal rods that are connected by a chain or rope. They are often used in martial arts demonstrations and can be used to strike, jab, or block an opponent. Nunchaku can also be used in forms and katas.

#4 Sai

Sai are two short batons that are connected at the base by a ring. They have pointed tips that can be used to jab or strike an opponent. Sai are typically used in martial arts demonstrations and can also be used in forms and katas.

#5 Tonfa

Tonfa are two short sticks that are connected at one end by a hinge. They can be used to strike, jab, or block an opponent. Tonfa are typically used in martial arts demonstrations and can also be used in forms and katas.

#6 Kama

Kama are two short blades that are connected at the base by a handle. They can be used to slash or strike an opponent. Kama are often used in martial arts demonstrations and can also be used in forms and katas.

#7 Jo staff

The jo staff is a martial arts weapon that is made from wood or bamboo. It is typically four to six feet long and is used to strike, jab, or block your opponent. Jo staffs are also sometimes used in forms and katas.

The Research

Why trust us

We start by looking at hundreds of product reviews on major retailers, forums and product databases. Where possible, we then check with experts on what to consider when purchasing and what their top picks are. For each product, we check to see if the retailer and the manufacturer are reliable. You can see below for how we do this.

Who this is for

Martial arts weapons are used by martial artists of all levels, from beginner to expert. However, some weapons are better suited for those with more experience. In general, martial arts weapons can be categorized into three groups: striking, thrusting and cutting.

Striking weapons are designed to deliver powerful blows, such as nunchucks and staffs. These are typically the easiest weapons to use, making them a good choice for beginners.

Thrusting weapons, such as knives and spears, are designed to penetrate an opponent’s defense. These require more precision and training to use effectively, so they’re better suited for experienced martial artists.

Cutting weapons, such as swords and axes, are designed to slice through an opponent. These are the most difficult weapons to use, so they’re best suited for experts.

How we chose

When it comes to martial arts weapons, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, consider what type of martial arts you’re practicing. Different martial arts favor different weapons, so it’s important to choose one that’s well-suited to your style. For example, nunchucks are often used in karate, while swords are more common in kendo.

Next, think about your level of experience. As we mentioned earlier, some weapons are better suited for beginners while others are better left to experts. If you’re just starting out, it’s a good idea to stick with a simpler weapon like nunchucks or a staff.

Finally, consider your budget. martial arts weapons can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. If you’re just starting out, it’s a good idea to stick with a cheaper weapon until you’re sure you’re committed to martial arts.

How we find reliable products:

Search for retailer reviews: merchant name + ‘customer reviews’

Look for red flags: repeat failure to fulfill orders, fulfill wrong items, poor customer service.

Read policies: check to see at least a 30-day warranty. For big expensive items at least a one-year manufacturer’s warranty. For mid-priced items a 60-day warranty is good. 

Look for Digital Payment Methods: Do they have digital wallet services like PayPal or Amazon Pay.

Third-party sellers: Check if they’re fulfilled by Amazon. Check to see if the seller has consistent reviews. Check for a high customer satisfaction rating; 85% with 4+ stars.

FAQs

Q: What is the best martial arts weapon for self-defense?

A: The best martial arts weapon for self-defense is the one you’re most comfortable with. If you’re just starting out, a simple weapon like nunchucks or a staff may be all you need. If you’re more experienced, a thrusting or cutting weapon may be a better choice.

Q: What martial arts weapons are illegal?

A: In general, martial arts weapons that are designed to cause serious injury or death are illegal. This includes knives, swords, and firearms. However, there may be some exceptions depending on your local laws.

Q: How much do martial arts weapons cost?

A: martial arts weapons can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars. If you’re just starting out, it’s a good idea to stick with a cheaper weapon until you’re sure you’re committed to martial arts.

Q: Where can I buy martial arts weapons?

A: martial arts weapons are available from a variety of retailers, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. When shopping for martial arts weapons, it’s important to read reviews and compare prices to ensure you’re getting a good deal.

Final thoughts

In conclusion, martial arts weapons can be a great addition to your training. However, it’s important to choose the right weapon for your martial arts style and experience level. Additionally, be sure to read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.

We hope this guide has been helpful in finding the perfect martial arts weapon for you.

Sources

  1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_martial_arts_weapons
  2. https://wayofmartialarts.com/best-martial-arts-weapons/
  3. https://medium.com/martial-arts-unleashed/most-versatile-martial-arts-weapons-top-10-edb2580e17a6

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About the Author

I am a huge fan of both BJJ and MMA. Jiu-jitsu is my biggest passion, and I’ve been training it for more than 5 years. I have recently been promoted to a purple belt. In this blog, I will be giving you tips on how to improve and how to choose the best BJJ equipment! Learn More