The Kyoketsu Shoge, known by various names including Kogetsu Kuge, Kyotetsu Kuge, Koygetsu Kuge, and Kogetsu Shoge, represents an evolution of the Kusarigama. This weapon was utilized by ninjas, alongside the Kusarigama, during similar historical periods. The Kyoketsu Shoge features a unique blade that combines elements of a knife and a Kama (sickle).
Design
The blade of the Kyoketsu Shoge fuses the characteristics of a knife and a Kama. The Kama section of the blade is roughly sharpened, solely on its inner side, while the knife portion is finely honed, predominantly towards the end. The remaining part of the blade maintains a basic level of sharpness, with a notably pointed tip.
Effectiveness
The Kyoketsu Shoge stands out as a highly effective weapon in both close and wide-ranged combat scenarios. The chain's end is distinct from the Kusarigama due to its ring. The Kyoketsu Shoge commonly features a ring, sharp on its outer side and smooth on its inner side, rather than a ball or weight as seen on the Kusarigama. This ring serves diverse functions, from inflicting injury or death upon enemies in one swift motion to providing support for climbing or suspension. It can also be used to retain the weapon when thrown.
Handling
Primarily, the Kyoketsu Shoge is maneuvered using the arms. In certain Katas (forms or patterns), the feet and neck are employed more to modulate the movement's speed or to extend its range than to attack.
Popularity Among Ninjas
The Kyoketsu Shoge rapidly became a favorite weapon among ninjas owing to its versatility, effectiveness, and ease of use. It could be easily mistaken for a grappling hook used by mountain men or a hook used by peasants to carry straw bales. This dual-purpose equipment, akin to a soldier's knife in modern times, was highly appreciated. The manner in which it was wielded intrigued and destabilized enemies, making it a formidable tool. However, this was less a testament to the weapon itself and more an indication of the ninjas' skill in utilizing any weapon or non-weapon.