The yari is a traditional Japanese spear consisting of a pointed blade affixed to the end of a lengthy pole. It came into common use after the attempted Mongol invasions of Japan in the 13th century. Confronted by hordes of Mongols bearing spears, the Japanese—who had traditionally engaged in highly-skilled, ritualized combat involving swords—were forced to adopt the yari. In the modern era of firearms, the yari is largely a ceremonial weapon. What variations of yari were once used? Discuss