The Kyoketsu Shuge (lit. running over the fields and mountains) is a double-edged blade with another blade protruding from its side at a 90-degree angle. The latter is tied to a chain or rope of between 3 and 6 meters that ends in a metal ring. It is believed that it was developed before the better known Kusarigama.1
Used almost exclusively by ninjas, the Kyoketsu Shoge has a multitude of technical applications. The blade can be used to cut and stab. The chain or rope, in the latter case sometimes made from human hair or horse hair, can be used for climbing, lassoing an enemy, and so on. The long reach of the weapon, combined with the cutting point, has the ability to attack or entangle an enemy from a safe distance. It can also be used to entangle the opponent's sword in the chain and tear it from their hands.