Kyoketsu Shoge 距跋渉毛: Ninja cunning turned into a weapon

El Kyoketsu Shoge (距跋渉毛), which can be translated as "jump and escape from the abyss", is one of the most ingenious and versatile weapons in the ninja arsenal. This combat instrument combines a double blade with a long rope and a metal ring, making it a multi-functional tool suitable for close combat, ranged attacks and various strategic activities.

The design of the Kyoketsu Shoge reflects the ninja's focus on adaptability and improvisation. Designed to be effective in unequal combat situations, this weapon was not only lethal, but also allowed ninja to climb, disarm enemies, and cause distractions.

Kyoketsu Shoge was developed during the Sengoku period (1467-1615), an era of constant conflict where military innovation was key to survival. This period was also the heyday of ninja activities, who perfected their ability to operate underground and confront better-equipped forces, such as the samurai.

The Kyoketsu Shoge, though less well-known than other weapons such as the kusarigama or shuriken, was an essential tool in the ninja repertoire. Its multi-functional design allowed users to easily handle changing scenarios, being an extension of the ninja principle of "using the environment as a weapon."

The weapon consists of three main elements, each designed for a specific purpose:

1. Shoge (鋤毛):The double-edged blade includes a curved tip and a straight blade. The curved tip was used to hook armor, weapons, or limbs, while the straight blade allowed for lethal cuts or stabs.
2. Rope or chain (縄/鎖): Traditionally made of horsehair or, in some cases, metal, with a length of between 3 and 5 meters. This part allowed the user to strike, wrap or immobilize the opponent from a distance.
3. Kan (環): The metal ring at the opposite end of the rope. Used for both striking and distraction, as well as serving as a climbing tool.
4. Tsuka (柄): The handle of the blade, designed for a firm and precise grip during combat.

The unique design of this weapon combines lethality and practical utility, adapting to both combat situations and logistical tasks.

Kyoketsu Shoge is a perfect example of the ninja philosophy: maximizing the use of resources with creativity and ingenuity. Some of the main techniques and uses include:

• Melee attacks: The double blade allowed for quick cuts, thrusts and hooking movements to neutralize the opponent.
• Long distance strikes: The rope and ring were used to strike or wrap the enemy's weapons and limbs.
• Disarmament: Ninjas used rope to catch and remove weapons such as swords or spears from the hands of the enemy.
• Tactical distraction: The spinning ring distracted opponents, creating opportunities for a surprise attack.
• Climbing and mobility:The rope and ring were effective tools for scaling walls, crossing obstacles, and accessing difficult terrain.
• Improvised traps: Kyoketsu Shoge was also used to set traps on roads, making it difficult for pursuers to advance.

Although Kyoketsu Shoge is not as well known as other ninja weapons, it is still studied in several traditional and modern martial arts schools. These ryuha have preserved unique techniques related to this tool:

1. Togakure-ryū
   Founded in the Heian period (794-1185), this school is one of the oldest in ninjutsu. It emphasizes the use of Kyoketsu Shoge in combat and as a tool for infiltration.

2. Gyokko-ryu
   This school prioritizes quick and precise movements, teaching how to use Kyoketsu Shoge to disarm enemies with continuous flow techniques.

3. Koto-ryu
   Known for its focus on forceful attacks, this ryuha adapts striking and disarming techniques to Kyoketsu Shoge, maximizing their impact.

4. Kukishinden-ryu
   A school famous for its work with chain weapons, it includes advanced techniques for handling Kyoketsu Shoge tactically.

5. Hontai Yoshin-ryū
   This school combines traditional martial arts with weapons handling. Its methods include the use of Kyoketsu Shoge as a defensive and offensive weapon.

6. Bujinkan
   Modern organization that preserves techniques from various ryuha, including those related to Kyoketsu Shoge, teaching their tactical use in contemporary situations.

7. Genbukan
   Another modern approach to ninjutsu, this school teaches Kyoketsu Shoge as part of an integrated system of weapons and combat techniques.

8. Jinenkan
   Known for its precision and detail in training, this school studies the versatility of Kyoketsu Shoge, adapting it to realistic combat scenarios.

Cultural significance and legacy

The Kyoketsu Shoge is a symbol of the shrewdness and ingenuity of the ninja. Its multi-functional design reflects the philosophy of these warriors, who prioritized adaptability and strategic use of the environment. Over the centuries, this weapon has evolved from a lethal tool on the battlefield to an art preserved in modern martial disciplines.

Today, the Kyoketsu Shoge is an object of fascination for collectors, historians and martial artists. It represents the balance between form and function, and is a reminder of the enduring legacy of ninjas in Japanese and global culture.