What is sasumata?

Sasumata is a traditional Japanese martial arts weapon that is used for restraining opponents in combat. It consists of a long pole with a forked metal head at one end, which is used to restrain an opponent by trapping their arms or legs. The sasumata is also known as a "man catcher" due to its ability to immobilize opponents without causing serious injury.

The sasumata was commonly used by the samurai and law enforcement officers in Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868) as a non-lethal alternative to weapons like swords and spears. It was particularly effective in crowded areas where using more traditional weapons could cause collateral damage.

The sasumata is still practiced and taught in various martial arts disciplines in Japan, such as Judo and Aikido, where it is used for self-defense and control techniques. In modern times, the sasumata is sometimes used by police forces in Japan and other countries as a non-lethal means of subduing suspects.