8. THE TOKKO… LAYOUT PLAN… UNSURPRISED… A unique Weapon with a surprising Religious twist. A somewhat specialised item. During troubled times a Priest may find much to fill time and travel, yet travel itself can become troubling. Many such took regular and necessary advantage of the many WALKING STICKS/STAFFS which at this time in History were an essential travel aid item. However… the usage of such indoors where space was limited and the Weapons reach advantages etc negated – a more personal defence system was req. In self-defence of the Religious… how far would you go ? The Priests of Buddhism and Tantrism were oft., like the renowned SHAOLIN MONKS in China, subject to particular persecution- Considering the Profession, a Symbol from Heaven was perhaps needed ? Introducing the surprising  TOKKO, an iconic Weapon, an icon that became a Weapon. Classic… and Unique indeed… not surprised ?…yet… photocredit/thanks:heianperiodjapan