Tuifa are the ancestor of the billy club, and are meant to be used in pairs (as are most of the single-handed kobudo weapons). Tuifa go by more names and/or spellings than any other kobudo weapon, as they are also known as tonfa, tunfa, toifua, tonkua, tunkua, taofua, tonfua, and tuiha. Tunfa or tonfa are the Japanese (and American) version, tonkua or tunkua are Chinese terms, and tuifa (and probably similar spellings) is Okinawan. This weapon develops grip strength and the muscles of the forearms, and teaches dexterity and awareness of arm and hand positioning.

This weapon originated from an ordinary household utensil, a handle for a mortar (or a hand mill). Its main purpose is defense. Attacking with Tonkua can also be powerful with the proper use of the wrist. This art descended from martial artist Master Irei in Nozato Chatan village.

 

 

 

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