Weaponry

Weapons at Zen Dan Kwan are grouped as follows:

Natural Weapons

This category includes weapons made of natural material such as wood and bamboo. This includes the Bo, or long staff, the Arnis Sticks and the Dan Bong, or short stick. These weapons are common to many areas of Asia and many Martial Arts styles. All of these weapons are considered the core weapons of Zen Dan Kwan and students are examined on these weapons as part of their Black Belt Exam.

Bladed Weapons

This category is concerned largely with the weapons of Okinawa, and includes the Kama, Sai and certain aspects of sword training. The bladed weapons at Zen Dan Kwan are an optional study, and are not examined prior to Black Belt level.

Sword

The Sword is an important and serious weapon at Zen Dan Kwan School of Martial Arts. Students who choose to study the sword have the opportunity to learn about blades and to learn the traditions and etiquette of the sword. Students also practice drawing resheathing and striking, as well as having the opportunity to practice tameshigiri, or practice cutting.