boshuriken

Boshuriken are a type of Japanese throwing weapon, similar in form and function to shuriken. The term "boshuriken" is a combination of "bo," meaning stick, and "shuriken," which can be translated as "blade hidden within the palm" or "needle thrown by hand." This nomenclature reflects their characteristic long, slender, and often pointed shape, as opposed to the more common star-shaped shuriken.

These weapons were traditionally made from metal, often steel, and varied in length and thickness. Some were simple, straight rods with a sharpened point, while others might have had a flattened or slightly wider body. The design was often intended for ease of concealment and rapid deployment. Boshuriken could be thrown with considerable force and accuracy, and their sharp points were designed to inflict puncture wounds.

The use of boshuriken is often associated with shinobi, the covert agents and mercenaries of feudal Japan. Like other ninja tools, their purpose was multifaceted, serving not only as offensive weapons but also potentially for distraction or intimidation. Historical records and pictorial representations offer insights into their construction and application, though precise details about their widespread use and specific techniques can be scarce. The study of boshuriken contributes to understanding the diverse array of weapons employed during historical Japanese martial traditions.