The Kusari-Fundo is a handheld weapon that originated in feudal Japan, characterized by a length of chain (Kusari Fundo) with a weight attached to each end. The construction of these weapons did not adhere to a set standard, resulting in various sizes and shapes for the chain and the weights. This weapon is also commonly known as the manriki-gusari, translating to "ten thousand power chains," or simply manriki.
The Chain (Kusari)
Typically, the length of the forged chain can range from approximately 12 to 48 inches. The chain can assume various shapes, including round, elliptical, and egg-shaped. The thickness of the chain also varies. Usually, the first link of the chain attached to the weight is round and often larger and thicker than the remaining links of the chain.
The Weight (Fundo)
The weights attached to each end of the chain can come in a variety of sizes and shapes. While the weights generally match in size and shape, in some weapon designs they can be completely different from each other. For instance, one weight might be much larger than the others, resembling a handle at one end, or one weight might be circular while the other is rectangular. Weight shapes include round, hexagonal, and rectangular. The weight could be quite light or very heavy, with the typical weight ranging from 56.25 grams to 112.5 grams.