There are unusual weapons from around the world. This is a monthly column on Martial Journal in which we analyze and describe these weapons. Come back every month for a new installment.
The Uchine
Origin: Japan, Late 14th to Early 15th Century
History
The uchine was first described in manuals for archery and seem to have originated at the end of the Warring States period of Japan, and continued use through the Edo period. As such, it was originally a battlefield weapon of a sort, and later evolved into a self-defense weapon.
Description
The uchine is often described as a Japanese throwing dart. The way I would describe it to some living today would be to think of a lawn dart with a rope attached to the back of it. There is a “blade” at the front that was often robust, and triangular in cross section, much as Japanese spear heads tend to be. Behind the head is a short shaft, thicker than an arrow shaft. On the end of the shaft is often, but not always, feathered fletching. The feathers on the back of an arrow give it directional resistance in flight and is called “fletching.” There is often a notch at the end of the shaft, just like an arrow. Many extant examples, as well as instructions for making them, include the use of a rope attached to the end of the shaft, following the fletching.
Usage
Most of the earliest manuals on archery that mention the uchine describe its use as being “used like a shuriken” which means it was thrown at opponents, not as a killing blow but perhaps more as a distracting weapon. Once the Edo period started (1600), there were no wars to fight and high ranking samurai started traveling the country in palanquins. The uchine’s function adapted to this new lifestyle. Inside the palanquin is cramped and it is nearly impossible to draw a sword should one be attacked. This is where the uchine shines. By throwing it at attackers, it gives the samurai riding in the palanquin one split second to actually draw his sword and defend himself. It could also be held in the hand and used like a dagger to stab at opponents. This multifunction and short range made it suited for this use. In all, it is a 
very specific weapon for a very specific purpose.
Analysis
Many of the surviving examples were very high quality weapons passed down for generations. The steel head was forged and folded, like the Japanese blades. It shows how weapons can be repurposed as new circumstances and technology arise. Since so many mentions are made of them, they seem to have been more commonplace that one would think.
Further Research
There is only one really good source: Uchine by Fujita Seiko, Sakai Shigeki (translated by Eric Shahan). It is mentioned in several places, but this book is dedicated to it, and translates old manuals and scrolls on its use and construction. If you are curious about this weird weapon, check out the book.
Editor’s Note: If you are curious on the history of another weapon, be sure to check out Jaredd Wilson’s article on the History of Nunchaku as well!
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