The tonfa is an Okinawan martial arts weapon from which the modern side-handled police baton is derived. Folklore says these were originally used as wooden handles that fit into the side of millstones, and were later evolved into weapons when Okinawan Islanders were banned, by the Japanese, from using weaponry. Other sources say the tonfa have a richer history extending back into Chinese martial arts, and appearing in Indonesian cultures.
The tonfa traditionally consists of two parts, a handle with a knob, and at 90 degrees to the handle, a shaft or board that lies along the hand and forearm. The shaft is usually 51-61 centimeters (20-24 inches) in length, and optimally extends about 3 cm past the elbow when held. Often the shaft has rounded off ends, which may be grooved for a better grip.
