Bo Shuriken, Shaken, Senbon, which models to choose?

Katana, black outfit, shuriken, these are the characteristics of Japan's mercenaries: the ninjas. But outside the Japanese archipelago, the shuriken remains the most well-known weapon carried by these fighters. Shurikens are to ninjas what swords are to Samurai. Thus, questions arise: What are Shurikens used for? What are the different variations? How to use them? Let's break it down...

The Shuriken, an ambush weapon?

The origin of the Shuriken remains mysterious to this day. But we can affirm that this weapon was part of the ninja's arsenal, along with the kunai and the Tekko-Kagi. Commonly called ninja stars, shurikens are used in the practice of Shurikenjutsu, a popular martial art in Japan. And although its sharp and pointed blades suggest that it is a formidable bladed weapon, this is not the case. Unlike the Katana and Wakizashi, the shuriken is not a lethal weapon. In the past, it was used to distract the opponent and to ambush them. Light and enjoying a meticulous configuration, it is difficult to dodge once it has been thrown.

The different types of Shuriken

Non-practitioners of ninjutsu mistakenly believe that there is only one type of throwing star model. However, there are numerous variations. You will find:

Bo shuriken

These are certainly the most popular models on the market. On average, these shuriken measure between 15 and 20 cm and have a width between 3 and 10 mm. Shaped like a metal point, bo shuriken incorporate a heavy end, which increases the chances of hitting the target with the pointed side. They are also distinguished into three main categories: hari-gata, kugi-gata, and tanto-gata. While hari-gata stand out for their cylindrical shape, kuri-gata have a triangular configuration. As for tanto-gata, they closely resemble finely sharpened knives.

Shaken

Shaken, on the other hand, are shuriken that have a star-shaped form with a number of points that can vary from one model to another. The same goes for their diameter and thickness. On average, a 9-point shaken has a diameter of 12 cm with a thickness of 4 mm.

Senbon

Called ninja needles, senbon have the same design as bo Shuriken. But unlike the latter, senbon have two points. They are also the most difficult models to make, given that the thickest part must imperatively be at the center of the length. This means that each model offered is the result of demanding and meticulous forging work.

What about ninja cards?

Ninja cards are fairly recent shuriken models. Unlike traditional throwing stars, they have a design in the form of a throwing card made of steel. Today, they are increasingly used in the practice of shurikenjutsu.

How to use a shuriken?

Regarding the use of shurikens, it all depends on the type of model. Bo shuriken and shaken, for example, are placed in the hand lengthwise. They should not rotate during the throw. If you want to learn all the techniques for handling these weapons, practicing shurikenjutsu will be ideal.