Tobikuchi

To contain damage and keep flames from spreading, Edo-period hikeshi (firemen) would knock down existing structures using a tobikuchi to quickly pull down screens and siding, often even the supporting beams. Comprised of the homeless, the unemployed, former criminals, and so on, the hikeshi were renowned for getting into street brawls when they weren't busy fighting fires. The tobikuchi frequently served a convenient improvised self-defense weapon in such disputes.

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This late Edo-period or Meiji-era tobikuchi is solid iron. Unlike the jutte, the long flat kagi was used to hook the tobikuchi in the obi.

This Edo-period tobikuchi is wood with several iron bands. The forged iron head is engraved with a signature, probably the original owner's name.