It’s customary in Kongo-ryu Kobudo to use a 173cm (5’8”) instead of a standard Rokushaku (183cm or 6’) bo. The difference in length is purely an act of remembrance to Taira Shinken, who was the teacher of Ryusho Sakagami, the founder of Kongo-ryu Kobudo.

Bo’s of this length are extremely difficult to obtain commercially and custom bo’s are extremely expensive. A standard 6’ tapered bo can be cut down to the correct length by taking 2” off each end.

However, for anyone who is reluctant to take a saw to a 6’ bo, Dave Wilkins of Martial Arts Superstores in Leicester, will cut down standard 6’ tapered bo’s held in stock.

I have obtained two of these bo’s for club use and they seem to fairly robust Bo’s. They are made from red hardwood.

You can order direct fromDave Wilkins, specifying that you require customisation of the bo to the required length.

Bear in mind that postal charges on long items such as bo’s are fairly expensive, so it’s only cost effective if ordering multiple items.

I plan to place a multiple order in the coming months to obtain some bo’s of the desired length for club use so anyone wishing a customised bo please contact me first to avoid carriage and customisation charges. I currently have 1 customised bo for sale. Anyone who wishes to purchase one of these pre-cut bo’s please use the link below.

Cost £21.00