Juttejutsu 十手術: The technique of control in feudal Japan

El Juttejutsu (十手術), or "jutte techniques", is a Japanese martial art that focuses on the handling of the jutte (Chinese: 李手), a short iron weapon similar to a club, equipped with a lateral projection known as kagi (鉤). Used primarily by feudal police and samurai warriors, the jutte was a versatile tool designed to disarm, block, and subdue without actually killing.

The jutte symbolized authority and control, and was an emblem of law enforcement officers during the Edo period (1603-1868). Its design and techniques made it a non-lethal weapon, ideal for capturing criminals and maintaining order in a society governed by strict codes of conduct.

The jutte has its roots in the Sengoku period (1467-1615), when constant conflict led to the development of practical and adaptable weapons. However, it was in the Edo period that the jutte reached its peak as a tool of samurai police officers (doshin) and his assistants (Okappiki).

During this time, the lower classes were prohibited by law from carrying swords. For this reason, the jutte became an accepted alternative, as it offered the ability to disarm an armed opponent without breaking strict regulations.

The jutte was also a symbol of authority. Officials wore it as a badge of their status and power within the social structure of feudal Japan. Its simple yet effective design embodied the philosophy of resolving conflicts with minimal violence.

The jutte, although seemingly simple, is precisely designed to maximize its functionality. Its main components are:

1. Bo (棒): The main body of the jutte, a straight iron staff ranging from 30 to 50 cm in length.
2. Kagi (鉤): The curved side projection near the top end, used to catch and disarm weapons such as swords.
3. Tsuka (柄): The handle, which may be wrapped in rope or leather for a firm grip.
4. Ishizuki (石突): The lower end of the jutte, sometimes reinforced for striking or applying pressure.
5. Kashira (頭): The upper end of the handle, which often served as a tool for pressing sore points or immobilizing.

The jutte's design allowed it to block attacks, deflect thrusts, and effectively control the opponent.

Juttejutsu includes a variety of techniques that combine defense, attack and control. These techniques reflect the samurai police philosophy of subduing opponents without causing unnecessary harm.

1. Weapon Lock: Using the bo or kagi to stop blows from swords or knives.
2. Disarms: Hooking the opponent's weapon with the kagi and applying torque to snatch it away.
3. Hard blows: Attacking vital points such as the wrists, torso or legs with the body of the jutte.
4. Immobilization: Using the jutte to apply pressure to sensitive points, immobilizing the opponent.
5. Self Defense: Quick, fluid movements to dodge attacks and counter with precise blows.

These techniques required precision and a deep understanding of the vulnerabilities of the human body.

Juttejutsu also included tactics for dealing with multiple attackers, as well as trapping techniques designed to minimize damage to the opponent. In the hands of an expert, jutte was an extremely versatile tool for conflict control.

The art of Juttejutsu has been passed down through several traditional schools, many of which continue to teach its techniques today.

1. Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū
   One of the oldest schools in Japan, it includes Juttejutsu as part of its repertoire of traditional weapons.

2. Yagyū Shinkage-ryū
   Known for its focus on defense and precision, it teaches jutte handling as a tool to neutralize sword attacks.

3. Katori-ryu
   It combines the use of the jutte with other weapons such as the bo and naginata, emphasizing versatility in combat.

4. Shinkendo
   A modern discipline that includes Juttejutsu as part of its comprehensive approach to traditional Japanese weapons.

5. Ono-ha Itto-ryu
   Integrates the use of jutte into unarmed combat techniques and small arms handling.

Schools like Bujinkan, Genbukan y Jinenkan They have adapted Juttejutsu to contemporary applications, teaching its use as a self-defense tool in modern situations. These schools preserve the spirit of Juttejutsu while adapting it to the needs of the present.

Juttejutsu was not only a martial art, but also a manifestation of the values ​​of feudal Japanese society. His emphasis on control and restraint reflected the philosophy of resolving conflicts with minimal violence.

Today, Juttejutsu continues to be studied by practitioners of traditional and modern martial arts. It is also an object of fascination for historians and collectors interested in the evolution of policing and social control tools in Japan.