The Sodegarami, also known as "Torimono sandogu" in Japanese, was a pole weapon used by law enforcement officers in Japan from the 13th to the 16th century.
Description and Appearance
This weapon consisted of a sturdy wooden shaft with an iron head. It was attached to the shaft using springs that were 50 to 75 cm long, secured on both sides with screws or bolts. The iron head at the top had various shapes, resembling either a halberd or a mace. Nails, small blades, or spikes were attached to the iron rails.
The tips of the heads were designed to easily catch on clothing. The primary purpose of the Sodegarami was not to inflict serious injuries on criminals or fugitives. It was primarily used to restrain and immobilize a perpetrator, break their resistance, and subdue them.
The spikes below the head prevented the person being restrained from grasping the weapon. The Sodegarami was used by city guards, police forces, and pirate hunters. It resembled the Sasumata and Tsukubō.
The Sodegarami was in use from the 13th century until the 18th century. Its significance diminished with the emergence of firearms in Japan. It shares similarities in function and purpose with European catchpoles.