Weighted chain
The ryofundogusari (double weighted chain) is often referred to
as "manrikigusari" (10,000 power chain). This latter name is
used by a particular school well known for its use. Other
terms used in a "fundogusari" (weighted chain) and "kusarifundo"
(chain and weight). Often, simply the abbreviation of
"manriki" is used.
The length of the chain and the size and shape of the weights
can vary considerably. The length can vary from approximately
30 to 120 cm. TJR uses a length of approximately 80 or 90 cm
and is best adjusted for the size of the person. When the
weights are held in each hand and the chain is wrapped once around
each hand, the chain will be a straight line between the hands as
they hang in their usual position at the side of the body.
Maintaining this distance between the hands is common. For
instance, holding a tanbo (short stick or baton) in two hands
produces the same result. It is also the distance between the
hands when using the Indonesian tongat.
The manriki is often referred to as a concealed weapon as the
smaller versions of weights can be hidden in one hand. It was
never a subject of independent classification and existed as part
of the curriculum of composite schools and probably more
particularly jujutsu schools.
The founder of the Masaki Ryu is said to have invented the
manrikigusari from his system of kusarigamatjutsu (sickle and chain
art) when required to provide security at Edo Castle. The
spilling of blood at the palace gates was not an option and so he
turned to the use of the chain without the sickle.
Whilst its initial primary purpose may have been to ensnare
weapons (as was the chain's primary function in kusarigama jutsu),
its modern day usage is best directed at the use of controlling
techniques by ensnaring an opponent's limbs or neck to lock,
strangle or immobilize. As with other weapons, its striking
capabilities need to be used judiciously.
The great advantage of the manriki is its flexibility -- a chain
that can take on a limitless number of shapes. It is being
able to control those shapes and the tension in the chain that
presents the great challenge in its successful manipulation.
The manriki has a number of reasonable substitutes, such as a
rope or dog chain.