Sai


Sai
Classification:	Weapon
Associated franchises:	Marvel Universe Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles
Associated films:	Elektra Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles II: The Secret of the Ooze
Associated comics:	Daredevil Vol 1 Elektra Vol 1 Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Vol 1
Character examples:	Elektra Natchios; Raphael
Related articles:	Bo staff; Katana; Nunchaku

A sai is a martial arts melee weapon that originated in Okinawa, Japan. It could be considered either a very short sword, or a very long dagger. It consists of a single central blade with two curved prongs on either side extending from the hilt. The blade is pointed, but not edged, which it make it ideal as stabbing weapon, but is not ideal for slashing. The prongs, which are often pointed as well, are designed for blocking and trapping an opponent's weapon.

In fiction, a sai is the preferred weapon of choice of the ninja assassin known as Elektra Natchios. She generally uses two sais, which she engages as both melee weapons and throwing weapons, often executing a frenzy of short small jabs to an opponent's body. Elektra has been seen training extensively with her sais, usually to an Evanescence soundtrack. Another martial artist of note who utilizes a sai is Raphael, who is one of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Raphael once lost one of his sais during a battle with the Foot clan, and it was recovered by a reporter named April O'Neil, which ultimately led to April discovering the existence of the Ninja Turtles.

In the Mortal Kombat video game franchise, there have been several characters who have employed sais. Due to the inherent feminine nature of the weapon, all of the users have been women. Mileena uses a sai as her preferred weapon of choice, as does Lin Mei. Sareena has also been seen using a sai.