It is commonly believed that Okinawan farming tools evolved into lethal weapons of self-defense when the Satsuma samurai clan forbade the peasants from carrying arms.

The garden or grub hoe (Kuwa, Gawa, or Kue) is a common instrument in all agrarian societies. A classic Okinawan hoe had a handle that was generally thicker and shorter than average. The blade was usually shaped as a simple rectangle of steel with a sharp leading edge, but may be forked with tines. This weapon course teaches how to use the various parts of the hoe for self-defense purposes. Techniques include poking with the end of the handle or blade, using the back edge of the blade for swinging or smashing attacks, and using the shaft part of the weapon for blocks and thrusting attacks.

This course teaches the stances, blocks, strikes, self-defense techniques and traditional kata for the standard garden hoe in full detail. It is an ideal teaching aid for review, rank testing, competition, and self-defense.

Grandmaster Michael A. Stelzer holds several advanced ranks (10th Dan and above) in the styles of Kobudo, KoBuMooMiKido, and other various styles of martial arts. Additionally, he holds three doctoral of science degrees and is a certified professional wrestler.