All categories
Business & Offices
Electronics & Media
Fashion & Accessories
Groceries & Essentials
Health & Personal Care
Home & Living
Kids & Family
Sports & Outdoors
Search in ZoneOffer
Picking the right martial arts weapon is more than a fashion choice — it shapes how you train, improves your technique, and keeps you safer on the mat. Whether you’re practicing traditional kata with a wooden bokken or drilling stick patterns with kali sticks, the feel, weight, and length of your weapon make a big difference. In the UK there are reliable specialist retailers and big marketplaces offering everything from foam practice gear to display katanas. This guide walks you through the best places to buy, what to look for, and practical safety and legal points so you can train confidently.
When shopping for martial arts weapons in the UK, you can choose between specialist martial arts shops, general combat-sport retailers, and major online marketplaces. Each has pros and cons: specialist stores often provide deeper product knowledge and authentic gear, while marketplaces give you huge selection and competitive prices.
Budoland is known among UK martial artists for an extensive catalogue of traditional weapons and training equipment. You’ll find wooden bokken, bo staffs, training swords, and kata-friendly items in multiple wood types and sizes. If you want traditional materials and authentic feel, a specialist shop like this is a great starting point.
Martial Arts Direct focuses on practical training gear suitable for dojo use. Expect to see foam and padded weapons for safe partner drills, escrima sticks for Filipino martial arts, and beginner-friendly nunchaku. They often stock training sets that are geared toward clubs and regular practice.
Combat Sports serves fighters and schools that practise multiple striking arts. In addition to boxing and MMA gear, they carry a selection of training weapons such as Kali sticks, practice knives, and protective equipment for partner drills. They’re a sensible option if you train in mixed disciplines and want durable, heavy-use kit.
Big sports retailers like Net World Sports occasionally stock martial arts weapons and training equipment. Their strengths are competitive pricing and fast shipping, which is handy if you’re equipping a class or need extra gear quickly. The selection may be more limited than niche shops, though.
Marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay carry virtually every style of weapon, from budget wooden bo staffs to ornamental display katanas. The upside is range and price competition; the downside is inconsistent product descriptions and quality. If you shop here, prioritise trusted sellers and read reviews closely.
If you’re after display or collector-grade blades, UK specialist sword retailers provide high-quality metalwork, full tang construction, and polished finishes. These shops often offer swords sized in inches, detailed care instructions, and authentication of materials. Remember that display swords and training swords are different products intended for different uses.
Different weapons serve different purposes: wooden tools are often for solo forms and partner drills, padded gear keeps sparring safe, and metal blades are primarily for display, performance, or advanced specialised training. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common types and their uses.
The bo staff is a long stick used across many karate and kobudo styles. Typical bo lengths range from about 5 ft to 7 ft depending on the user’s height and discipline. A 6 ft bo is a versatile starting point for most adults. Look for hardwood bo staffs for durability, and lighter woods or rattan for fast stick work.
Bokken simulate the feel of a katana without an edge. A standard bokken length is around 40 inches, roughly matching a short katana blade. Bokken are ideal for paired drills, suburi (repetitive cuts), and kata practice. Heavier oak bokken add resistance for strength training; lighter woods help speed and refined technique.
Authentic metal katana are usually sold as display or collector pieces unless specifically made for live-blade cutting. Blade lengths often run between 24 and 30 inches. If you want a sword for cutting practice, look for a certificate of tempering and a blade designed for tameshigiri. For most hobbyists, a wooden or blunt steel training sword is safer and more practical.
Nunchaku consist of two sticks joined by cord or chain; common handle lengths range from 10 to 14 inches each. Beginners should start with foam or padded nunchaku to build coordination and avoid injury. Wood handles deliver authentic weight and balance once you’ve developed control.
Escrima or kali sticks are typically about 26 inches long and are used in Filipino martial arts focusing on weapon-to-weapon contact. Materials vary from rattan and hardwood to synthetic composites. Rattan offers light weight and shock absorption, while oak or other hardwoods last longer with heavier strikes.
Sai commonly measure around 16 to 18 inches, while tonfa are usually 18 to 24 inches depending on grip placement and practice style. These shorter weapons develop close-quarters control and are commonly used in kata and performance. Choose solid construction and comfortable grips to reduce wrist fatigue.
Chain whips and rope darts are fluid, flexible weapons that require advanced coordination and ample practice space. They can be dramatic and effective for performance, but they carry higher safety risks. Foam or rubber practice variants are recommended while learning basic control and distance management.
Choosing the right weapon boils down to your goals, body size, and training environment. Are you practicing performance kata, sparring with partners, or building conditioning? Answering that will help you pick materials, length, and protective gear.
Wooden weapons (oak, hickory) are durable and give realistic impact feedback. Rattan is lighter and absorbs shock, making it popular for stickwork. Metal is reserved for display or advanced blade work. Foam and padded weapons are indispensable for safe partner drills and sparring. Match material to your training purpose.
Always consider length in inches relative to your height. A 6 ft bo works well for many adults; a bokken around 40 inches mirrors a medium katana. Weight affects speed: heavier weapons increase strength but slow down flow. If you’re unsure, choose a mid-weight option to balance speed and control.
Beginners should prioritise safety and control. Start with bo staffs and rattan sticks, progress to wooden bokken, and only move to heavier or edged tools under supervision. Foam or padded nunchaku and sticks are excellent for skill acquisition without high impact risk.
Owning, training with, and displaying martial arts weapons in the UK is common, but the law around offensive weapons is strict. Being informed keeps you out of trouble and protects your training partners.
Many training weapons like wooden staffs, bokken, and rattan sticks are legal to own and use for practice. However, certain items such as flick knives, knuckle-dusters, and disguised blades are illegal to possess. Metal swords are typically legal to own but illegal to carry in public without good reason. Always check current UK legislation and ask a local instructor or retailer if you’re unsure.
Carrying weapons in public, even for training, can lead to legal trouble. Transport items in a locked bag and ensure they’re stored safely at home or at your dojo. If you need to move blades for display or performance, carry them in protective cases and bring documentation that explains your legitimate purpose.
Never skip protective gear during partner drills. Use headgear, gloves, and body protection when appropriate, especially with impact weapons. Train under qualified instructors who can teach safe distance, target zones, and proper striking and blocking techniques.
Caring for martial arts weapons extends their life and keeps them safe to use. Different materials need different maintenance routines.
Wooden weapons should be kept dry and periodically oiled with a light application to prevent cracking. If a wooden weapon develops a splinter, sand it smooth and apply a protective oil. Store wooden gear horizontally or on racks to avoid warping.
Metal swords require rust prevention. Wipe blades after handling and apply a thin coat of oil to prevent moisture damage. Check fittings and handles regularly to make sure they remain secure, especially if you use training swords for repetitive cutting drills.
Foam weapons should be rinsed and air-dried; avoid prolonged sun exposure which can break down foam. Composite or synthetic sticks are low maintenance but inspect for cracks and fatigue after heavy use.
Smart shopping helps you buy quality without overspending. Here are tactics that have saved others money while keeping product quality high.
Compare similar items across specialist shops and marketplaces to spot bargains. Be sure you compare like-for-like materials and sizes; a “wood” product may be different types of wood with wildly different longevity and feel.
Used gear is perfect for beginners. A pre-owned bo staff or bokken is a fraction of the price of new and is usually perfectly fine for drills. Just inspect for splinters, cracks, or loose fittings before use.
Don’t buy the highest-end collector sword if you’re just starting. Begin with basic training gear that supports frequent practice and upgrade as your skills and needs evolve. Your budget goes further when you buy what helps you train consistently.
Gear matters, but the right instruction matters more. Pair your weapons with coaching, seminars, and local clubs to speed up progress and stay safe.
Join a local dojo to test gear before buying and to learn safe handling. Instructors often sell or recommend trusted suppliers and may have group discounts for your club’s gear purchases.
Workshops with guest instructors are a great way to try different weapons and styles. Online videos and forums can supplement training, but always cross-check technique with a qualified teacher to avoid bad habits.
Buying martial arts weapons in the UK is an exciting step in your training journey, but it calls for thoughtfulness about materials, length, legality, and safety. Start with trusted retailers and marketplaces, opt for training-friendly materials, and invest in protective gear and proper instruction. With the right weapon in hand — sized in inches and balanced for your body and skill — you’ll build faster, train safer, and enjoy every practice session.
