Shuriken.Pdf
Introduction to shuriken, and a short History of the Art There are two basic types of shuriken, bo shuriken, or long thin blades, and hira shuriken (also called shaken), or flat, star-shaped or lozenge-shaped blades. The basic method of throwing of the shuriken varies little between schools, the main differences being the shape of the blades and their use. Origins The earliest mention of throwing blades comes from Ganritsu Ryu, founded by Matsubayashi Henyasai, a professional swordsman in service of the 18th lord of Matsuhiro in Kanei, around 1624. This school gave rise to Katono, or Izu Ryu, founded by a samurai of Sendai, called Fujita Hirohide of Katono, also known as Katono Izu, who was a student of Mastubayashi. He pioneered the use of a throwing needle, about 10cm in length and weighing about 20gm, several of which he wore in his hair. The needle was held between the middle and forefinger, and thrown like a modern dart into the eyes of an attacker. It was said that he could throw two needles at a time at a picture of a horse, hitting each hoof in turn. Enmei Ryu The famous swordsman Miyamoto Musashi was reportedly the founder of this school, which involves throwing a 40cm blade, probably a tanto, or knife. There is a story of a duel between Musashi and Shishido, an expert of the kusari-gama, a sickle and chain developed specifically to defeat the samurai's sword. As Shishido pulled out his chain, Musashi threw a dagger and struck him in the chest, killing him.
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