Teppan, literally iron plate, is a little-known but extremely effective kakushi buki 隠し武器 (hidden weapon) from the Ninpo and Japanese feudal period.
Originally, teppan were not designed as weapons, but were found in everyday objects. Although today the term is mostly associated with the Japanese grill plate in restaurants, it also used to have a tactical meaning. The material used was wrought iron or hardened steel. The size varied greatly and was often palm-sized or rectangular (approx. 6-10 cm). The shape is flat, often with slightly rounded edges or sharply ground, depending on the design. Teppan were used as throwing weapons, in close combat, fist reinforcements, block plates and armor protection, etc. The small iron plates were well concealed in the palm of the hand.
Like a shuriken, teppan could be thrown with precision, the principle was the same. Due to its weight, it could be thrown especially at unprotected areas such as the face or hands. Not primarily to cause serious injury, but to distract the attacker and take advantage of this.
But much more interesting than throwing a piece of metal was its use in taijutsu. Flexible finger work in the hand made it possible to change position quickly in the palm of the hand, which improved the defense immensely. Everything remained hidden from the attacker's eyes until he was surprised by a burst of pain. With their sharp edges, teppan could be used as a cutting or slashing weapon. For pulling, pushing, twisting, levering and in various punch and thrust combinations, the small iron plates, in combination, became something very effective in self-defense. In the torite waza, fixed name and pinning techniques, the corners and edges could be used very effectively as a means of applying pressure. Wrapped in cloth or concealed in a hand, teppan served as an amplifier for a fist strike or as a target to disable the opponent's fist. This made them an ideal defensive option. Small teppan plates could also be hidden in sleeves or wrist guards to ward off blades or block cuts.
Verner used teppan as a tool for a wide variety of uses, such as loosening and hammering nails, as a fire steel, a message carrier, for cooling wounds and bruises, etc. .
The small iron plate was therefore another multi-tool in the hands of the Shinobi no Mono. Inconspicuous in appearance, versatile in use, small and compact to carry.
(Text by Daishihan Jürgen Bieber | 10th Dan Kugyo Happo Hiken)
Features:
Material: aluminum
Dimensions: 70 mm x 70 mm
Weight: 40 g
Thickness: 0.30 mm
