Weapons and Karate-do by Funakoshi Gichin

 WEAPONS AND KARATE-DO

In karate from the beginning, the bare hands and feet have been considered as blades, and it should be practiced with the idea that they will cut when touched, so there is no need to be especially cautious when faced with a weapon, but it goes without saying that distance and body shifting methods should be varied depending on the type of weapon that is used by the opponent.

When sufficient skill has been acquired through practice, a sword, dagger, stick and so on should actually be used in practice to learn the techniques against these weapons and to prepare oneselfmentally against them.

On the other hand, when one is using a weapon, it is natural to begin depending upon it and consequently lose readiness in the use of the feet, the elbows and the free hand. Should an opponent neutralize the weapon, one could become weaker than a weaponless man.

When actually faced with a weapon, one's coat and shoes are useful, and even a handkerchief or piece of paper could become effective defensive weapons, depending upon their use. One could spit upon the opponent's face, emit a kiai, stamp one's foot or clap one's hands to distract the opponent as other means of defensive actions. Therefore, keeping in mind these methods, one will be able to easily control an opponent with a weapon.

Funakoshi Gichin

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