for cane? I'm trying to find a little history on the cane as a weapon and need to know the Japanese word. All I've found is jo. Can anyone help?

Hanbo. "Han" = half, "bo"=staff. Literally "half staff", but used also about normal walking cane.

Here are some translations for cane and the arts that use it.

 

Hope this helps.

 

hanboujutsu - form of martial art using a short cane staff

 

jou - cane; whipping rod

 

joudou - form of martial art using a cane staff

 

joujutsu - form of martial art using a cane staff

 

shikomidzue - sword cane

 

tou - cane; rattan

 

tsue - cane; whipping rod

Hanbo. "Han" = half, "bo"=staff. Literally "half staff", but used also about normal walking cane.

 

Is it han with a long a? Like in ham?

If you are referring to a crooked cane, It is not a traditional Japanese weapon. Try looking at Chinese weapons and Korean weapons. I know that Hapkido and Hwa Hwrang (spelling?)Do use the cane. However these styles are more Chinese influenced styles so try Chinese martial history.