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Another of the multi-purpose weapon used in feudal Japan was the
kansashi. Again, like many other Japanese weapons, the kansashi (kanzashi) or long hairpin
could be used as an everyday tool and, in times of danger, as a deadly weapon!
Used mainly by the
women of the Samurai families, the kansashi was a long pin, about 6 inches in
length that was easily concealed in its entirety in a woman's long hair. This pin, as a hair
accessory, helped
women keep their long hair up, to suit a style of dressing employed on
formal occasions.
As a means of protection from assault, either in times of war or from street thugs,
women were trained to use the kansashi as a weapon. The long, sharp pin could be easily and swiftly
removed her bundle of hair and employed to pierce an enemy's throat or other vital
organ in an emergency.
Other women in other societies have also used the hairpin as a protective device. The hairpin allows
its wearer to be armed during occassions when more recognized weapons would not be permitted. And given
an element of surprise and a moment to act, the kansashi could be effective. Sometimes elaborately
ornamental,
hairpins such as the kansashi might have simple beads or jewels attached to the top end, or
enamaled tops, but,
rest assured, they were always kept sharp enough to pierce clothing and skin.
In Japan today, the kansashi or more usually spelled kanzashi refers to any traditional
hair ornament that would adorn a woman's hair while wearing a
Kimono.
While more typically used by women, a samurai with long hair might also employ the kansashi
to hold his hair in place, at times. A warrior who is prepared provides another possibility of survival...
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Another of the multi-purpose weapon used in feudal Japan was the
kansashi. Again, like many other Japanese weapons, the kansashi (kanzashi) or long hairpin
could be used as an everyday tool and, in times of danger, as a deadly weapon!
