[Joe Demko]

a buddy did the flea market thing over the weekend and decided I needed a chrome-plated manriki gusari and a set of clear (acrylic?) nunchuku. I had a manriki years ago, and IIRC they are nearly as dangerous to the user as they are to the target unless you are pretty skilled in their use. As for the 'chucks...they look disturbingly like something from a pr0n video. I thanked him for his generosity and for thinking of me, but I believe I'll tuck these trinkets away somewhere and forget about them.

[p35]

When I was young and dumb enough to fool with nunchaku, I quickly learned that I was more likely to whack myself in the head than to whack anyone else.

Don't discourage your buddy, though- you never know when he might find, say, a USMC K-Bar at the swap meet.

[hso]

It's always interesting to see what folks find that they think are interesting and that you'll be interested in.

My father-in-law paid good money for this hideous stick tang short sword and gave it to me. He thought it was a great deal and that he had gotten something that I would appreciate. I did appreciate the gesture. The "sword", not so much. It resides in the attic now with a broken grip and badly bent tang and blade.

[Lt. G]

I have owned and used several manrikigusari. If you are going to carry it, (mine were heavy in the pocket) and use it, get some training,(if you don't already have it), I got some nasty lumps from it hitting me.

I am older now, and have started Tai Chi and my Sifu is encouraging me to branch out into Kung Fu, ( he is a wonderful respectful man, he will work with my physical problems in regards to the harder aspects, kicks,low stances , balance). please enjoy your new weapons. Much luck
Lt. G

[JShirley]

I've owned a few manriki (called "kusarifundo" by those I trained with). You have to learn how to dodge quickly to use them well.

I'll be happy to take it off your hands if you like, Joe. :)

[m.p.driver]

a friend got a great deal on some pakistani bowies,the plastic pearl handles were lovely,i think the blades were made out of a buick bumper,they disgusted me so much i couldnt stand the thought of them being in the same storage bin defiling my gerbers,kabars,bokers and ect..,i threw them in the garbage first chance i got