When you consider a pistol as a weapon, there are characteristics which make it effective in certain situations and useless in others. It has a limited number of shots before it must be reloaded. It inflicts substantial damage but only through a very narrow line. It has a limited effective range due to its narrow attack line. A gun has limited effectiveness in close quarters. It is difficult to use in motion and so forth.

A katana by comparison has a different attack range and can inflict substantial damage in a sweeping arc. It requires more skill speed and strength to use effectively. It is harder to conceal, but can be used almost soundlessly. It is more flexible in it usage than a gun, but there is still only one end that can be held.

The staff is even more flexible in its usage but inflicts less damage. Its range can be effectively altered, but can be troublesome in close quarters. It too takes much skill, speed and strength to use effectively. The entire length can be gripped and is generally safer to use.

In aikido our own bodies and minds are weapons and should be considered as such. They have their strengths and limitations which are slightly different for each person and personality. Size, weight, flexibility and speed all change the characteristics of our self as a weapon.

Through the art of aikido we learn to use our body in a particular way which differs from other martial arts. By nature of its techniques and teachings we are supplied with a number of ways in which we can use our body as a weapon which is by no means is all encompassing. Our kicks and punches are limited to atemi, our locks and pins are not as crippling nor complex as in jujutsu, nor are our throws as comprehensive.

Given that we train aikido, and we may choose to train it exclusively. It is important therefore that within the bounds of the art that we utilise every aspect of ourselves to its very limit. Using our flexible stance to shift our balance and generate rotating forces. Using our knowledge of anatomy and joints to effect the loss of balance with our opponent. Using a calm centred mind to read the intentions of our opponent and see into the future. Use of our breath and timing, kiai, all parts of our body to atemi, spiralling forces and gravity... the list goes on.

While it is perfectly acceptable to gain a breadth of knowledge and skills by learning many different martial arts, I personally find it more fulfilling to go deep and find the potential from the simple. It is probably a more Zen way of thinking to perfect the one thing, like forging a samurai blade through continued purification, folding, beating and shaping, rather than creating a fantastic complex weapon which can cater for all imaginable scenarios. This is simply an characteristic of my own weapon, where I strive for a deep understanding of one thing than the knowledge of many.

Likewise, discover the nature of yourself - your own weapon. Forge it through continued study and training. Beat away impurities and weaknesses.