Misplaced Pages

Shuriken: Difference between revisions

Article snapshot taken from Wikipedia with creative commons attribution-sharealike license. Give it a read and then ask your questions in the chat. We can research this topic together.
Browse history interactively← Previous editContent deleted Content addedVisualWikitext
Revision as of 17:09, 1 August 2009 editBeno1000 (talk | contribs)Pending changes reviewers3,659 editsm →In popular culture← Previous edit Latest revision as of 12:35, 12 December 2024 edit undoDocWatson42 (talk | contribs)Extended confirmed users, Pending changes reviewers217,456 edits →Legality: Moved a comma.Tags: Mobile edit Mobile web edit Advanced mobile edit 
(603 intermediate revisions by more than 100 users not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Short description|Throwable Japanese concealed weapon}}
] shuriken in ] Museum, Japan]]
{{Italic title|reason=]}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
]
] ''shuriken'' in ] Museum, Japan]]
{{Wikt | shuriken}}


A {{Nihongo|'''''shuriken'''''|]||lead=yes|extra={{lit|hand-hidden blade}}}} is a Japanese ] used by ] or ] or in ] as a hidden ] or '']'' to distract or misdirect.<ref>{{Cite book|last= Fletcher |first= Daniel|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=dUTRAgAAQBAJ&q=shuriken|title= Japanese Throwing Weapons: Mastering Shuriken Throwing Techniques (Downloadable Media Included)|date= 2012-08-21|publisher= Tuttle Publishing|isbn=978-1-4629-0985-8|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":0">{{Cite book|last= Mol|first= Serge|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=ZzIXkFec0e8C&q=history+of+shuriken&pg=PA156|title= Classical Weaponry of Japan: Special Weapons and Tactics of the Martial Arts|date= 2003|publisher= Kodansha International|isbn= 978-4-7700-2941-6|language=en}}</ref>
'''''Shuriken''''' (] 手裏剣; literally: "sword hidden in the hand") is a traditional ]ese ] that were generally for throwing, and sometimes stabbing or slashing. They are sharpened hand-held blades made from a variety of everyday items such as needles, nails, and knives, as well as ]s, washers, and other flat plates of metal.


Shuriken are commonly known in the West as "death stars", "throwing stars", "Chinese stars" or "] stars". However, the shuriken took many different shapes and designs during the time that they were used. The major varieties of shuriken are the ''bō shuriken'' (棒手裏剣, stick shuriken) and the ''hira shuriken'' (平手裏剣, flat shuriken), or ''shaken'' (車剣, also read as ''kurumaken'', wheel shuriken). Shuriken are also known as '''throwing stars''', or '''ninja stars''', although they were originally constructed in many different shapes. The major varieties of shuriken are the {{nihongo3|stick shuriken|棒手裏剣|bō shuriken}} and the {{nihongo3|flat shuriken|平手裏剣|hira shuriken}} or {{nihongo3|wheel shuriken|車剣|shaken|also read as {{nihongo|||kurumaken}}}}.


Shuriken functioned as supplementary weapons to the ] or to other weapons in a samurai's arsenal, although they often had an important tactical effect in battle.<ref name =bmbb>{{cite journal | last = Malmstrom | first = Bud| title = How To Make a Throwing Star| journal = Black Belt| volume = 22| issue = 10| pages = 61–64| publisher = Active Interest Media| year = 1984 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite book|last= Gruzanski|first= Charles|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=8YPQAgAAQBAJ&q=shuriken|title= Ninja Weapons: Chain and Shuriken|date= 2012-01-17 |publisher= Tuttle Publishing|isbn= 978-1-4629-0322-1|language= en}}</ref><ref name=":3">{{Cite book|last= Toda |first= Katsumi|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BdtTAAAACAAJ|title=The Ninja Star: Art of Shuriken Jutsu |date= 1984|publisher=Dragon Books|isbn=978-0-946062-10-2|language=en}}</ref>{{Better source needed|reason= Citation is non-scholarly and potentially unreliable source (commercial non-news magazine).|date=November 2020}} The art of wielding the shuriken is known as ]<ref name=":3" /> and was taught as a minor part of the martial-arts curriculum of many famous schools, such as ], ], ], ], and ].<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1">
Shuriken were mainly a supplemental weapon to the more commonly used '']'' (sword) or '']'' (spear) in a warrior's arsenal, though they often played a pivotal tactical role in battle. The art of wielding the shuriken is known as '']'', and was mainly taught as a minor part of the martial arts curriculum of many famous schools, such as Yagyu Ryu, Katori Shinto Ryu, Itto Ryu, Kukishin Ryu, and Togakure Ryu. In the modern western world, shuriken can often be purchased online as collector's items, but in some countries owners must possess a certificate for possession of knives.
{{Cite book |last1= Musashi|first1= Miyamoto|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=ivO9zQEACAAJ|title= Miyamoto Musashi & Shuriken |last2= Seiko|first2= Fujita|date= September 2020|publisher= Eric Michael Shahan|isbn= 978-1-950959-29-7|language=en}}</ref><ref name=":2">{{Cite book|last= Seiko|first= Fujita|url= https://books.google.com/books?id=4v2azQEACAAJ|title= Shuriken|date= July 2020|publisher= Amazon Digital Services LLC - KDP Print US|isbn= 978-1-950959-22-8|language=en}}</ref>


==Bo-shuriken== ==Bo-shuriken==
A ''bo-shuriken'' is a throwing weapon consisting of a straight iron or steel spike, usually four-sided but sometimes round or octagonal in section. Some examples have points on both ends. The length ranges from 12 to 21&nbsp;cm (5–8.5&nbsp;in) and the average weight from 35 to 150&nbsp;grams (1.2–5.4&nbsp;ounces).<ref name=mol>{{cite book | last = Mol | first =Serge|title = Classical weaponry of Japan: special weapons and tactics of the martial arts | publisher = Kodansha International | year =2003 | location =Tokyo | pages =159–160| isbn =978-4-7700-2941-6 }}</ref> They should not be confused with the ], which is a thrusting and stabbing implement that is sometimes thrown.
]
Bo-shuriken is a throwing weapon consisting of a straight, iron or steel spike, usually 4-sided but sometimes round or octagonal in shape. They are usually single-pointed, but there are some that are double-pointed. The length of ''bo-shuriken'' ranges from 12 to 21&nbsp;cm (5–8 1/2 in) and the average weight was from 35 to 150 ] (1.2–5.4 ounces). The ''bo-shuriken'' is thrown in a number of ways, such as overhead, underarm, sideways and rearwards, but in each case, the throw involved the blade sliding out of the hand through the fingers in a smooth, controlled flight. This is not to be confused with the ], which is a thrusting and stabbing implement that is sometimes thrown.


''Bo-shuriken'' were constructed from a wide variety of everyday items, and as such came in many shapes and sizes. Some derived their names from the materials of which they were made, such as ''kugi-gata'' (nail form), ''hari-gata'' (needle form) and '']-gata'' (knife form); some were named after an object of similar appearance, such as ''hoko-gata'' (spear form), ''matsuba-gata'' (pine-needle form); while others have names that are purely descriptive, such as ''kankyuto'' (piercing tool form), ''kunai-gata'' (utility tool form), or ''teppan'' (plate metal) and ''biao'' (pin).<ref name="mol" />
The major forms of throw are the ''jiki da-ho'' (direct hit method), and the ''han-ten da-ho'' (turning hit method). These two forms are technically different, in that the former does not allow the blade to spin before it hits the target, while the latter requires that the blade spin before it hits the target.


The ''bo-shuriken'' is thrown in a number of ways, such as overhead, underarm, sideways and rearwards, but in each case the throw involves the blade sliding out of the hand through the fingers in a smooth, controlled flight. The major throwing methods are the ''jiki da-ho'' (direct-hit method), and the ''han-ten da-ho'' (turning-hit method). These two are technically different, in that the former does not allow the blade to spin before it hits the target, while the latter requires that the blade spin''.''
''Bo-shuriken'' were constructed from a wide variety of everyday items, and thus there are many shapes and sizes. Some derive their name from the materials they were fashioned from, such as ''kugi-gata'' (nail form), ''hari-gata'' (needle form) and ''tanto-gata'' (knife form); others are named after the object to which they appear similar, such as ''hoko-gata'' (spear form), ''matsuba-gata'' (pine-needle form) while others were simply named after the object that was thrown, such as ''kankyuto'' (piercing tool form), ''kunai-gata'' (utility tool form), or ''teppan'' (plate metal) and ''biao'' (pin).
]


Other items were also thrown as in the fashion of ''bo-shuriken'', such as ''kogai'' (ornamental hairpin), ''kogata'' (utility knife) and ''hashi'' (]), although these items were not associated with any particular school of ''shurikenjutsu'', rather they were more likely just thrown at opportune moments by a skilled practitioner who was skilled in a particular method or school. Other items such as hairpins, ''kogata'' (utility knife), and chopsticks were thrown in the same way as ''bo-shuriken'', although they were not associated with any particular school of shurikenjutsu.


The origins of the ''bo-shuriken'' in Japan are still unclear, despite continuing research. This is partly because shurikenjutsu was a secret art and also due to the fact that throughout early Japanese history there were many independent exponents of the skill of throwing long, thin objects. The earliest-known reference to a school teaching shurikenjutsu is Ganritsu Ryu, active during the 17th century. This school utilized a long, thin implement with a bulbous head, thought to be derived from the arrow. Surviving examples of blades used by this school appear to combine an arrow's shape with that of a needle traditionally used in Japanese leatherwork and armor manufacture.<ref name=mol/>
===Origins===
The origins of the ''bo-shuriken'' in Japan are still unclear despite continuing research in this area. This is partly because shurikenjutsu is a secretive art, and also to the fact that throughout early Japanese history there were actually many independent innovators of the skill of throwing long, thin objects. The earliest known mention of a school teaching shurikenjutsu is Ganritsu Ryu, prevalent during the 1600s. This school utilized a long thin implement with a bulbous head, thought to be derived from the ]. Existing examples of blades used by this school appear to exhibit a mixture of an arrow's shape with that of a needle traditionally used in Japanese leatherwork and armor manufacture.


There are also earlier mentions in written records, such as the ''Osaka Gunki'' (大阪軍記, the military records of ]), of the standard knife and short sword being thrown in battle, and ] is said to have won a duel by throwing his short sword at his opponent, killing him. There are earlier mentions in written records,{{clarify|reason=Earlier than Ganritsu ref?|date=September 2014}} such as the {{nihongo3|the military records of ]|大阪軍記|Osaka Gunki}}, of the standard knife and short sword being thrown in battle. ] is said to have won a duel by throwing his short sword at his opponent, killing him.


==Hira-shuriken== ==Hira shuriken/shaken==
] ]]]
''Hira-shuriken'' are constructed from thin, flat plates of metal derived from a variety of sources including ''hishi-gane'' (coins), ''kugi-nuki'' (] tools), and ''senban'' (washers), and generally resemble popular conceptions of shuriken. These are sometimes called "ninja stars" as ninja are consistently seen throwing this which looks like a star. They often have a hole in the center and possess a fairly thin blade sharpened only at the tip. The holes derive from their source in items that had holes - old coins, washers, and nail-removing tools. This proved convenient for the shuriken user, as well, as the weapons could be strung on a string for transport, and the hole also had ] and weighting effects that aided the flight of the blade after it was thrown.


''Hira-shuriken'' generally resemble the popular conception of shuriken. They are constructed from thin, flat plates of metal derived from a variety of sources including ''hishi-gane'' (coins), ''kugi-nuki'' (carpentry tools), spools, and ''senban'' (nail removers).
There is a wide variety of forms of hira-shuriken, also known as ''shaken'', and they are now usually identified by the number of points the blades possess. As with bo-shuriken, the various shapes of hira-shuriken were usually representative of a particular school or region that preferred the use of such shapes, and it is therefore possible to identify the school by the type of blade used.


They often have a hole in the center and possess a fairly thin blade sharpened mainly at the tip. The holes derive from their source in items that had holes—old coins, washers, and nail-removing tools. This proved convenient for the shuriken user as the weapons could be strung on a string or dowel in the belt for transport, and the hole also had aerodynamic and weighting effects that aided the flight of the blade.<ref name=mol/>
Modern shuriken, unlike historical ones, are most often made of ]. They are commercially available in many knife shops in Europe and North America, although they are illegal in many states, countries, and provinces, such as the ] of ].<ref> outlaws the manufacture, import, sale, and possession of a large number of weapons (including shuriken) with limited exceptions for law enforcement and the motion picture industry.</ref>

There are a wide variety of forms of ''hira-shuriken,'' and they are now usually identified by the number of points the blades possess. As with ''bo-shuriken'', the various shapes of ''hira-shuriken'' were usually representative of a particular school ('']'') or region that preferred the use of such shapes, and it is therefore possible to identify the school by the type of blade used.<ref name=mol/>


==Usage== ==Usage==
Shuriken targets were primarily the more exposed parts of the body: the eyes, face, hands, or feet.<ref name=bmbb/><ref name=":2" />{{Better source needed|reason=Citation is non-scholarly and potentially unreliable source (commercial non-news magazine).|date=November 2020}} Shuriken, despite low mass, were capable of dealing lethal blows at short ranges. In some cases, shuriken were capable of partially disemboweling targets.<ref>{{Cite journal|url=https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20642255/|pmid = 20642255|year = 2010|last1 = Kettner|first1 = M.|last2 = Gade|first2 = G.|last3 = Ramsthaler|first3 = F.|last4 = Shah|first4 = S.|last5 = Pape|first5 = A.|last6 = Theisen|first6 = A.|last7 = Schmidt|first7 = P.|title = Experimental studies on the wounding capacity of recently developed shuriken/Throwing stars and their legal categorization--an interdisciplinary view|journal = Archiv für Kriminologie|volume = 225|issue = 5–6|pages = 167–180}}</ref>
Contrary to popular belief, shuriken were not primarily intended as a killing weapon, but rather as a secondary weapon that sometimes played a role supportive to a warrior's main weapon, usually the sword or spear, but it could be deadly in hands of a skillful ]. ''Shuriken'' were primarily used to cause either nuisance or distraction, both being tactics to gain an advantage in battle. Targets were primarily the eyes, face, hands, or the feet, the areas most exposed by a ]'s armor.


Shuriken, especially hira-shuriken, were also used in other novel ways – they might be embedded in the ground, injuring those who stepped on them, or wrapped in fuse to be lit and thrown to cause fire. They can also be used as a handheld striking weapon in close combat. Shuriken, especially ''hira-shuriken'', were also used in novel ways—they could be embedded in the ground, injuring those who stepped on them (similar to a ]), wrapped in a ] to cause fire, or wrapped in a cloth soaked in poison and lit to cover an area with a ].<ref name=DD>{{cite book | last = Draeger | first =Donn F.|title = Ninjutsu: The Art of Invisibility | publisher = Tuttle martial arts | year =2008 | location =Tokyo | pages =72–73| isbn =978-0-8048-3937-2 }}</ref> They could also be used as a handheld weapon in close combat.<ref name =aabb>{{cite journal | last = Adams | first = Andy| title = The Battle for Ninja Supremacy| journal = Black Belt| volume = 23| issue = 12| pages = 21–24| publisher = Active Interest Media| year = 1985 }}</ref>{{Better source needed|reason=Citation is non-scholarly and potentially unreliable source (commercial non-news magazine).|date=November 2020}}


There are reports of shuriken being coated with poison intended either for a throwing target or for whoever may pick them up when left in a conspicuous place. Other reports indicate that shuriken may have been buried in dirt or animal ] and allowed to rust and harbor the ] ] '']'' – if the point penetrated a victim deeply enough the bacteria would be transferred into the wound, causing a then-incurable ] infection. There are reports of shuriken being coated with poison, intended either as a throwing weapon or to be left in a conspicuous place for a victim to pick up.<ref>{{cite journal | last = Steele| first = David| title = Japanese Daggers| journal = Black Belt| volume = 19| issue = 2| pages =55–60 | publisher = Black Belt, Inc.| year = 1981 }}</ref><ref name=":2" />{{Better source needed|reason=Citation is non-scholarly and potentially unreliable source (commercial non-news magazine).|date=November 2020}} Other reports indicate that shuriken may have been buried in dirt or animal feces and allowed to harbor the bacterium '']''—if the point penetrated a victim deeply enough, the bacteria transferred into the wound could cause a then-incurable ] infection.<ref name=":2" />


Shuriken are a simple weapon, but their historical value, thanks to their wide variety of uses and the ready availability of material from which they could be made, has increased. Unlike katana and other bladed weapons, antique shuriken are not often well preserved, largely due to their original status as throwaway weapons. Shuriken are simple weapons, but their historical value has increased.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" /> Unlike the '']'' and other bladed weapons, antique shuriken are not often well preserved (although some are blackened in ash to prevent corrosion), largely due to their expendable nature.<ref name=cvg>{{cite book | last = Gruzanski | first =Charles V.|title = Ninja Weapons: Chain and Shuriken | publisher = Tuttle martial arts | year =1991 | location =Tokyo | pages =91–92| isbn =978-0-8048-1705-9 }}</ref>


==Legality==
== In popular culture ==
Modern commercially available shuriken, which are sold in ] and ], are often made of ]. However, in many countries and jurisdictions, they are illegal to possess or carry, such as in ], the ], ],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.canlii.org/en/ca/laws/regu/sor-98-462/latest/sor-98-462.html |title=Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and other Weapons, Components and Parts of Weapons, Accessories, Cartridge Magazines, Ammunition and Projectiles as Prohibited or Restricted, SOR/98-462|website=www.canlii.org}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gesetze-im-internet.de/waffg_2002/anlage_2.html |title=Point 1.3.3 |date=17 May 2022|website=www.gesetze-im-internet.de}}</ref> and the ] (manufacture, sale, distribution and import).<ref>{{Cite legislation UK | type = si | year = 1988 | number = 2019 | si = Criminal Justice Act 1988 (Offensive Weapons) Order 1988}}</ref> In the United States, they are prohibited in some states, such as ]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?division=9.&part=6.&lawCode=PEN&title=3|title=California Penal Code Section 22410|website=www.leginfo.legislature.ca.gov}}</ref> and ].<ref>{{cite web|title=New York Penal Law| quote= § 265.01 – Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree|url=http://law.onecle.com/new-york/penal/PEN0265.01_265.01.html |website=www.law.onecle.com}}</ref> In some cases they may be allowed, but may still be subject to specific local legislation. Owners may be required to possess a certificate for possession.
{{In popular culture|date=July 2009}}
Shuriken are popularly believed to have been used by Japanese ninja. They can be seen in a wide range of modern media set in both modern and ancient settings. While shuriken are almost always associated with ninja and to a lesser extent other thieves and assassins, they are sometimes seen as wholly separate from that context. Often used is a fictional enlarged version of shuriken, called ].

On some occasions, shuriken are actually fired from guns (such like in the video games '']'' and '']''; in the tabletop board game '']'', the ] race use guns that shoot razor-sharp rounded shuriken).

Occasionally, the use of shuriken does not even involve a human throwing them (in the film '']'', monster Guiron fires four-point shuriken from the sides of his head, in the film '']'', the ]'s disc changed from an actual disc into a shuriken-style throwing star, and in the film '']'' the monster Creeper uses shuriken made of human bones).

Prominent examples of shuriken in popular culture include:
*'']'' (video game): the ] fighter jet shoots shuriken-shaped projectiles, upgradable to kunai.
*'']'' (video game): ] and ] both use shuriken as their weapon of choice during combat.
*'']'' (TV series): an episode is named "Sword, ] & Shuriken". Magical shuriken are weapons of the major character Jezmine in the series.
*'']'' (video game), ] uses enormous shuriken as her primary weapon.
*'']'' (film): during a fight scene between Rod and his father, the latter throws a shuriken at Rod that gets embedded in his chest.
*'']'' (novel): the eponymous protagonist's visit to an apple orchard in upstate ] culminates with an unrealistic visit to a nearby blacksmith's shop, where he asks to have a ''shuriken'' made to his specifications.
*'']'': Most ninja in naruto used shuriken mostly for long-range attacks, occasionally using them to trap enemies by attaching wires to the whole in the centre of the shuriken and throwing it so that the wire wraps around the opponent. ] is known to possess a ] and used it try and free Kakashi from Zabuza one of the series first antagonists.
*'']'' (novel): the protagonist, Case, is fascinated by shuriken. He is later bought one by Molly.
*'']'' (TV series): the sixth and final Ranger to appear was ] (Green Samurai Ranger in the American version '']''), whose symbol on Shurikenger's shinobi medal was a green eight-point hira-shuriken. Also in ''Hurricaneger'', the three Hurricaneger fired shuriken from their Hurricane Gyro '']'' devices (replaced with lasers in ''Ninja Storm'' due to U.S. television regulations).
*'']'': the title character's love interest, Jasmine, is killed by four throwing stars in the back.
*'']'' (video game): the player character Lo Wang uses shuriken as weapon, and states: "I love the shuriken".
*'']'' (video game): Joe Musashi's primary weapon is the shuriken. They are also primary weapon of his son Hayate in '']''.
*'']'' (online comic): the character ] throws shuriken as a harrying tactic and to wound fleeing opponents, in particular in her fight with ] on the cliff in the Poconos, and her iconic duel with ].
*'']'' (TV series): in the episode "]," ] is depicted wielding a pair of shuriken, and maiming ] with them.
*''] (Video game): Cyborg Assassins use throwing stars as weapons.
*'']'' (film): the character Tiger Tanaka saves ] from being killed by ]'s gun by means of a throwing star. A similar thing happens in the film '']'', when the character Wai Lin saves James Bond from being shot by a henchman.
*'']'' The character Gonzo uses ]s as throwing stars.
*French ] MC ] is named after shuriken.


==See also== ==See also==
{{Portal|Japan}}
*]
{{colbegin}}
*]
* ]
*]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
* ]
{{colend}}


==References== ==References==
{{reflist}} {{Reflist}}


== Further reading ==
==Literature==
*Fujita, Seiko (1928) ''Zukai Shurikenjutsu'' (An Overview of Shuriken-jutsu) *Nawa, Yumio (1962) ''Kakushi Buki Soran'' (An Overview of Hidden Weapons)
*] (June 1964) (An Overview of Shuriken-jutsu)
*Nawa, Yumio (1962) ''Kakushi Buki Soran'' (An Overview of Hidden Weapons)
*Finn, Michael (1983) ''Art of Shuriken Jutsu'' *Finn, Michael (1983) ''Art of Shuriken Jutsu''
*Hammond, Billy (1985) ''Shuriken jutsu: The Japanese Art of Projectile Throwing'' A.E.L.S *Hammond, Billy (1985) ''Shuriken jutsu: The Japanese Art of Projectile Throwing'' A.E.L.S
*Shirakami, Eizo (1985) ''Shurikendo: My Study of the Way of Shuriken'' *Shirakami, Eizo (1985) ''Shurikendo: My Study of the Way of Shuriken''
*Iwai, Kohaku (1999) ''Hibuki no Subete ga Wakaru Hon'' (Hidden Weapons) BAB, Japan *Iwai, Kohaku (1999) ''Hibuki no Subete ga Wakaru Hon'' (Hidden Weapons) BAB, Japan
*Kono, Yoshinori (1996) ''Toru Shirai: Founder of Tenshin Shirai Ryu'' in ''Aikido Journal'' #108 *Kono, Yoshinori (1996) ''Toru Shirai: Founder of Tenshin Shirai Ryu'' in ''Aikido Journal'' #108
*Saito, Satoshi in Skoss, Diane ed. (1999) ''Sword & Spirit: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan Vol. 2'' Koryu Books *Saito, Satoshi in Skoss, Diane ed. (1999) ''Sword & Spirit: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan Vol. 2'' Koryu Books
*{{cite book |title = Classical Weaponry of Japan: Special Weapons and Tactics of the Martial Arts |last=Mol|first=Serge|publisher = Kodansha |year = 2003 |isbn=4-7700-2941-1|pages = 1–217}}
*Someya, Chikatoshi (2001) ''Shuriken Giho''
*Mol, Serge (2003) ''Classical Weaponry of Japan: Special Weapons and Tactics of the Martial Artists'' Kodansha


==External links== ==External links==
{{Commons category}} *{{Commons category-inline}}
*
*
*
*]


{{Japanese (samurai) weapons, armour and equipment}}
]

]
{{Authority control}}
]
]
]
]
]
]
] ]
]

<!-- Interwiki -->

]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]
]

Latest revision as of 12:35, 12 December 2024

Throwable Japanese concealed weapon

Five types of shuriken
Edo period shuriken in Odawara Castle Museum, Japan

A shuriken (Japanese: 手裏剣, lit. 'hand-hidden blade') is a Japanese concealed weapon used by samurai or ninja or in martial arts as a hidden dagger or metsubushi to distract or misdirect.

Shuriken are also known as throwing stars, or ninja stars, although they were originally constructed in many different shapes. The major varieties of shuriken are the bō shuriken (棒手裏剣, stick shuriken) and the hira shuriken (平手裏剣, flat shuriken) or shaken (車剣, wheel shuriken, also read as kurumaken).

Shuriken functioned as supplementary weapons to the sword or to other weapons in a samurai's arsenal, although they often had an important tactical effect in battle. The art of wielding the shuriken is known as shurikenjutsu and was taught as a minor part of the martial-arts curriculum of many famous schools, such as Yagyū Shinkage-ryū, Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū, Ittō-ryū, Kukishin-ryū, and Togakure-ryū.

Bo-shuriken

A bo-shuriken is a throwing weapon consisting of a straight iron or steel spike, usually four-sided but sometimes round or octagonal in section. Some examples have points on both ends. The length ranges from 12 to 21 cm (5–8.5 in) and the average weight from 35 to 150 grams (1.2–5.4 ounces). They should not be confused with the kunai, which is a thrusting and stabbing implement that is sometimes thrown.

Bo-shuriken were constructed from a wide variety of everyday items, and as such came in many shapes and sizes. Some derived their names from the materials of which they were made, such as kugi-gata (nail form), hari-gata (needle form) and tantō-gata (knife form); some were named after an object of similar appearance, such as hoko-gata (spear form), matsuba-gata (pine-needle form); while others have names that are purely descriptive, such as kankyuto (piercing tool form), kunai-gata (utility tool form), or teppan (plate metal) and biao (pin).

The bo-shuriken is thrown in a number of ways, such as overhead, underarm, sideways and rearwards, but in each case the throw involves the blade sliding out of the hand through the fingers in a smooth, controlled flight. The major throwing methods are the jiki da-ho (direct-hit method), and the han-ten da-ho (turning-hit method). These two are technically different, in that the former does not allow the blade to spin before it hits the target, while the latter requires that the blade spin.

Four antique forged Japanese bo shuriken (iron throwing darts with linen flights)

Other items such as hairpins, kogata (utility knife), and chopsticks were thrown in the same way as bo-shuriken, although they were not associated with any particular school of shurikenjutsu.

The origins of the bo-shuriken in Japan are still unclear, despite continuing research. This is partly because shurikenjutsu was a secret art and also due to the fact that throughout early Japanese history there were many independent exponents of the skill of throwing long, thin objects. The earliest-known reference to a school teaching shurikenjutsu is Ganritsu Ryu, active during the 17th century. This school utilized a long, thin implement with a bulbous head, thought to be derived from the arrow. Surviving examples of blades used by this school appear to combine an arrow's shape with that of a needle traditionally used in Japanese leatherwork and armor manufacture.

There are earlier mentions in written records, such as the Osaka Gunki (大阪軍記, the military records of Osaka), of the standard knife and short sword being thrown in battle. Miyamoto Musashi is said to have won a duel by throwing his short sword at his opponent, killing him.

Hira shuriken/shaken

Various types of shuriken at the Iga-ryū Ninja Museum

Hira-shuriken generally resemble the popular conception of shuriken. They are constructed from thin, flat plates of metal derived from a variety of sources including hishi-gane (coins), kugi-nuki (carpentry tools), spools, and senban (nail removers).

They often have a hole in the center and possess a fairly thin blade sharpened mainly at the tip. The holes derive from their source in items that had holes—old coins, washers, and nail-removing tools. This proved convenient for the shuriken user as the weapons could be strung on a string or dowel in the belt for transport, and the hole also had aerodynamic and weighting effects that aided the flight of the blade.

There are a wide variety of forms of hira-shuriken, and they are now usually identified by the number of points the blades possess. As with bo-shuriken, the various shapes of hira-shuriken were usually representative of a particular school (ryū) or region that preferred the use of such shapes, and it is therefore possible to identify the school by the type of blade used.

Usage

Shuriken targets were primarily the more exposed parts of the body: the eyes, face, hands, or feet. Shuriken, despite low mass, were capable of dealing lethal blows at short ranges. In some cases, shuriken were capable of partially disemboweling targets.

Shuriken, especially hira-shuriken, were also used in novel ways—they could be embedded in the ground, injuring those who stepped on them (similar to a caltrop), wrapped in a fuse to be ignited and thrown to cause fire, or wrapped in a cloth soaked in poison and lit to cover an area with a cloud of poisonous smoke. They could also be used as a handheld weapon in close combat.

There are reports of shuriken being coated with poison, intended either as a throwing weapon or to be left in a conspicuous place for a victim to pick up. Other reports indicate that shuriken may have been buried in dirt or animal feces and allowed to harbor the bacterium Clostridium tetani—if the point penetrated a victim deeply enough, the bacteria transferred into the wound could cause a then-incurable tetanus infection.

Shuriken are simple weapons, but their historical value has increased. Unlike the katana and other bladed weapons, antique shuriken are not often well preserved (although some are blackened in ash to prevent corrosion), largely due to their expendable nature.

Legality

Modern commercially available shuriken, which are sold in Europe and North America, are often made of stainless steel. However, in many countries and jurisdictions, they are illegal to possess or carry, such as in Belgium, the Netherlands, Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom (manufacture, sale, distribution and import). In the United States, they are prohibited in some states, such as California and New York. In some cases they may be allowed, but may still be subject to specific local legislation. Owners may be required to possess a certificate for possession.

See also

References

  1. Fletcher, Daniel (21 August 2012). Japanese Throwing Weapons: Mastering Shuriken Throwing Techniques (Downloadable Media Included). Tuttle Publishing. ISBN 978-1-4629-0985-8.
  2. ^ Mol, Serge (2003). Classical Weaponry of Japan: Special Weapons and Tactics of the Martial Arts. Kodansha International. ISBN 978-4-7700-2941-6.
  3. ^ Malmstrom, Bud (1984). "How To Make a Throwing Star". Black Belt. 22 (10). Active Interest Media: 61–64.
  4. Gruzanski, Charles (17 January 2012). Ninja Weapons: Chain and Shuriken. Tuttle Publishing. ISBN 978-1-4629-0322-1.
  5. ^ Toda, Katsumi (1984). The Ninja Star: Art of Shuriken Jutsu. Dragon Books. ISBN 978-0-946062-10-2.
  6. ^ Musashi, Miyamoto; Seiko, Fujita (September 2020). Miyamoto Musashi & Shuriken. Eric Michael Shahan. ISBN 978-1-950959-29-7.
  7. ^ Seiko, Fujita (July 2020). Shuriken. Amazon Digital Services LLC - KDP Print US. ISBN 978-1-950959-22-8.
  8. ^ Mol, Serge (2003). Classical weaponry of Japan: special weapons and tactics of the martial arts. Tokyo: Kodansha International. pp. 159–160. ISBN 978-4-7700-2941-6.
  9. Kettner, M.; Gade, G.; Ramsthaler, F.; Shah, S.; Pape, A.; Theisen, A.; Schmidt, P. (2010). "Experimental studies on the wounding capacity of recently developed shuriken/Throwing stars and their legal categorization--an interdisciplinary view". Archiv für Kriminologie. 225 (5–6): 167–180. PMID 20642255.
  10. Draeger, Donn F. (2008). Ninjutsu: The Art of Invisibility. Tokyo: Tuttle martial arts. pp. 72–73. ISBN 978-0-8048-3937-2.
  11. Adams, Andy (1985). "The Battle for Ninja Supremacy". Black Belt. 23 (12). Active Interest Media: 21–24.
  12. Steele, David (1981). "Japanese Daggers". Black Belt. 19 (2). Black Belt, Inc.: 55–60.
  13. Gruzanski, Charles V. (1991). Ninja Weapons: Chain and Shuriken. Tokyo: Tuttle martial arts. pp. 91–92. ISBN 978-0-8048-1705-9.
  14. "Regulations Prescribing Certain Firearms and other Weapons, Components and Parts of Weapons, Accessories, Cartridge Magazines, Ammunition and Projectiles as Prohibited or Restricted, SOR/98-462". www.canlii.org.
  15. "Point 1.3.3". www.gesetze-im-internet.de. 17 May 2022.
  16. "Criminal Justice Act 1988 (Offensive Weapons) Order 1988", legislation.gov.uk, The National Archives, SI 1988/2019
  17. "California Penal Code Section 22410". www.leginfo.legislature.ca.gov.
  18. "New York Penal Law". www.law.onecle.com. § 265.01 – Criminal Possession of a Weapon in the Fourth Degree

Further reading

  • Nawa, Yumio (1962) Kakushi Buki Soran (An Overview of Hidden Weapons)
  • Seiko Fujita (June 1964) Zukai Shurikenjutsu / 図 解 手 裏 剣 術 (An Overview of Shuriken-jutsu)
  • Finn, Michael (1983) Art of Shuriken Jutsu
  • Hammond, Billy (1985) Shuriken jutsu: The Japanese Art of Projectile Throwing A.E.L.S
  • Shirakami, Eizo (1985) Shurikendo: My Study of the Way of Shuriken
  • Iwai, Kohaku (1999) Hibuki no Subete ga Wakaru Hon (Hidden Weapons) BAB, Japan
  • Kono, Yoshinori (1996) Toru Shirai: Founder of Tenshin Shirai Ryu in Aikido Journal #108
  • Saito, Satoshi in Skoss, Diane ed. (1999) Sword & Spirit: Classical Warrior Traditions of Japan Vol. 2 Koryu Books
  • Mol, Serge (2003). Classical Weaponry of Japan: Special Weapons and Tactics of the Martial Arts. Kodansha. pp. 1–217. ISBN 4-7700-2941-1.

External links

  • Media related to Shuriken at Wikimedia Commons
Japanese weapons, armour and equipment
Swords
Construction
Knives and daggers
Polearms and spears
Practice weapons
Armour
Types
Clothing
Samurai accoutrements
Chain and rope weapons
Clubs and truncheons
Staff weapons
Projectile and throwing weapons
Firearms and guns
Improvised and other weapons
Signal devices
Users
Categories: