Jitte (Japanese: 十手, "ten hands") is a traditional Japanese weapon that originated during the Edo period. It is a metal truncheon or iron rod with a handle. The name "Jitte" is derived from its unique characteristic of having ten prongs or tines on one side of the weapon.
History
The Jitte was primarily used by law enforcement officers called "Kanaban-shi" who were responsible for maintaining peace and order in feudal Japan. They were granted the authority to carry and use the Jitte as a defensive tool to apprehend criminals and subdue unruly individuals. The Jitte was especially effective in restraining an opponent by hooking the weapon around their sword or other objects they might be holding, giving the wielder a significant advantage in combat.
Design and Usage
The Jitte features a straight iron rod with a handle, and on one end, it has ten prongs arranged in a unique pattern. The prongs are strategically placed to form a curved shape, resembling the shape of a set of fingers. This design allowed the Jitte to be used for various defensive techniques, such as blocking and parrying strikes, as well as for offensive maneuvers to disarm or immobilize opponents.
The Jitte is a versatile weapon that can be employed in both armed and unarmed combat scenarios. Its unique design and construction make it an effective tool for neutralizing and subduing adversaries without causing severe injury. In skilled hands, the Jitte can be used to redirect and control an opponent's weapon, providing the wielder with a significant tactical advantage.