Just wanted to share some pictures of a work in progress my Ihepua'a, Inoshishi Yari, or Boar Spear. Still needs final fitting of parts, laquering of staff, polishing of metal work, and wrapping of handle with tarred nylon twine, and finished with 4 "Turk's Heads". I designed this spear combining features of both the Japanese Yari (spear) and Naginata (halberd). It has a straight symmetrical blade of the Yari but a single edge like the Naginata. Also like the Naginata it has a Tsuba or guard below the blade that the Yari usually did not possess. This is to prevent a boar from running up the spear. I put copper reinforcing bands on both the blade end and the butt end the butt end traditionally also used as a bludgeon in battle. I will also be carving appropriate Kanji charactors into the handle. Will post more pictures as project progresses.

Tsuba and Copper band


Blade and Tsuba


Copper band on butt end with rubber cap for walking


Two sets of wrapping and "Turk's Heads" [color=red]to be added[/color] below blade end copper band, and above butt end copper band


I am planning on taking this back to Maui to hunt boars at Kaupo with a pack of hounds. ;D