Editing Nunchaku (section)

== Construction ==
[[File:Nunchaku001.jpg|thumb|Close-up image of the ''kontoh'' (top) of two nunchaku, showing the ''kusari'' (chain) on one, and the ''himo'' (rope) and ''ana'' (hole) that the ''himo'' goes through on the other.]]
[[File:Uncommon nunchucks.jpg|thumb|Uncommon nunchuks made of solid [[nylon]], hollow [[Aluminium|aluminum]], and solid metal (unlinked)]]
Nunchaku consist of two sections of wood connected by a cord or chain, though variants may include additional sections of wood and chain. In China, the striking stick is called "dragon stick" ("龍棍"), while the handle is called "yang stick" ("陽棍"). 

The rounded nunchaku is comparatively heavy and used for training, whereas the octagonal nunchaku is used for combat.<ref>{{cite book|title=Nunchaku, Karate Weapon of Self Defense|author=Fumio Demura|page=14|publisher=Ohara Publications|year=1971|isbn=9780897500067|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=I1LH46cVe8AC&q=nunchaku}}</ref> Ideally, each piece should be long enough to protect the forearm when held in a high grip near the top of the shaft. Both ends are usually of equal length, although asymmetrical nunchaku exist that are closer to a traditional [[Two-section staff|flail]].

The ideal length of the connecting rope or chain is just long enough to allow the user to lay it over his or her palm, with the sticks hanging comfortably and perpendicular to the ground. The weapon should be properly balanced in terms of weight. Cheaper or gimmicky nunchaku (such as glow-in-the-dark versions) are often not properly balanced, which prevents the performer from performing the more advanced and flashier "low-grip" moves, such as overhand twirls. The weight should be balanced towards the outer edges of the sticks for maximum ease and control of the swing arcs.

Traditional nunchaku are made from a strong, flexible hardwood such as [[oak]], [[loquat]] or [[Lithocarpus|pasania]].