Does Kempo Use Weapons?
Defense against knives and clubs are seen from yellow belt and up. They are considered prime weapons in which to defend against. Kempo also teaches its students how to use weapons to increase their understanding of defense. Weapons that are taught are both Chinese and Japanese in variety and vary widely. Some schools of Kempo teach the 8′ staff, while others teach Whip Chain and Sai. Commonly seen in Kenpo schools are the twin sticks of Escrima. Weapons training often begins at the green belt level. Some schools restrict it to those at black belt level and higher. At Kempo Academy, the primary weapons skills taught are: Stick(s), Half Staff (Jo), and 6′ Staff.