Kusarifundo Jutsu 鎖分銅術: art of the short chain in combat

El Kusarifundo Jutsu (鎖分銅術) It is the Japanese martial art that teaches the handling of kusarifundo, a short chain with weights on both ends. This seemingly simple weapon is an example of how Japanese warriors maximized the effectiveness of discrete, portable tools in combat situations. Although less well-known than other disciplines such as kenjutsu or jujutsu, Kusarifundo Jutsu stands out for its focus on precision, control, and adaptability in combat.

The kusarifundo combines lightness and versatility, allowing you to block, strike and disarm opponents with quick and strategic movements. These features make it an ideal tool for self-defense and combat situations in confined spaces.

Kusarifundo has its roots in the Muromachi period (1336-1573), an era characterized by the consolidation of martial techniques and the proliferation of weapons adapted to specific contexts. During this time, laws and restrictions on the carrying of weapons led to the development of discreet and easily concealable tools, such as the kusarifundo.

The weapon was used primarily by samurai police officers (metsuke y doshin), who needed non-lethal methods to capture and neutralize suspects. However, it was also adopted by warriors and spies, who valued its versatility and portability.

Kusarifundo Jutsu is closely related to other Japanese martial arts disciplines, such as hojōjutsu (the art of tying with ropes) and juttejutsu (use of jutte). Its focus on controlling the opponent without causing fatal injuries reflects the Japanese emphasis on balance between strength and restraint.

The kusarifundo is a simple tool in appearance, but its design is carefully optimized for combat.

1. Kusari (鎖): The central chain, usually made of steel, that connects the two ends of the weapon. It usually measures between 30 and 60 cm, depending on the style of use and the preferences of the practitioner.
2. Fundo (分銅): The weights at both ends of the chain, which can be of different shapes, such as spheres or cylinders, and are designed to strike, trap or disarm.
3. Tight Length: Unlike other chain weapons like the kusarigama, the kusarifundo is designed for short range, making it more manageable in tight spaces.

The compact and portable design of the kusarifundo makes it ideal for situations where speed and discretion are essential.

Kusarifundo Jutsu is based on total control of the weapon, allowing a variety of offensive, defensive and strategic movements. These are some of the main techniques:

1. Direct hits: Using weights to hit vulnerable points such as the head, wrists or legs.
2. Horizontal sweeps: Circular movements designed to destabilize the opponent or keep him at a distance.
3. Long range attacks: Throw one of the weights to hit the enemy from a safe distance.

1. Blockages and detours: Using the chain to stop attacks from weapons such as swords or batons.
2. Couplings: Catch enemy weapons with the chain to neutralize them.
3. Body protection: Wrap the chain around your arm to deflect blows.

1. Immobilization: Using the chain to wrap around the enemy's limbs, immobilizing them without causing serious damage.
2. Disarmament: To hook weapons such as knives or swords to take them away from an opponent.

Kusarifundo Jutsu demands precision and a deep understanding of distance and rhythm of combat. A miscalculated move could result in a failed attack or even self-harm.

Kusarifundo Jutsu is not only based on individual techniques, but also on complex strategies that include manipulation of the environment, deception and tactical adaptability:

The kusarifundo can be integrated into combat by using elements of the environment, such as columns or branches, to create anchor points or limit the enemy's movement.

Rapid chain movements create noise and confusion, diverting the opponent's attention and opening opportunities for a surprise attack.

Kusarifundo Jutsu teaches one to quickly adapt between close and medium range combat, switching between forceful strikes and capturing maneuvers.

These strategies require not only physical skill, but also a high level of concentration and situational analysis.

Several traditional schools have preserved Kusarifundo Jutsu as part of their martial repertoire. These include:

1. Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-ryū One of the oldest schools in Japan, it teaches kusarifundo as a complement to other traditional weapons.

2. Yagyū Shinkage-ryū
   Known for its emphasis on defensive techniques, it includes the kusarifundo in its arsenal to neutralize sword attacks.

3. Kukishinden-ryu
   Specializing in chain weapons, this school offers an in-depth focus on the use of kusarifundo and its tactical applications.

4. Hyoho Niten Ichi-ryu Founded by Miyamoto Musashi, it adapts the principles of double sword combat to the handling of the kusarifundo.

Contemporary schools such as Bujinkan, Genbukan y Jinenkan They have integrated Kusarifundo Jutsu into their training systems, adapting their techniques to modern self-defense contexts.

These schools ensure the continuity of Kusarifundo Jutsu, keeping its legacy alive through generations.

Kusarifundo Jutsu is a perfect example of how simplicity can be transformed into a sophisticated and effective tool. The weapon and its martial discipline represent the Japanese ingenuity in adapting ordinary tools to extraordinary situations.

Today, Kusarifundo Jutsu continues to be practiced by martial artists, both for its historical value and for its modern applicability in self-defense contexts. In addition, Kusarifundo is admired by collectors and martial arts enthusiasts as a symbol of the creativity and adaptability of the Japanese warrior.