This theory makes a lot of sense when you consider how eaxh turtle utilizes their weapons. Raph uses his Sais like an offensive weapon with punching and striking, Mikey uses a weapon that requires a lot of skill but with the bravado and swagger of a child. Donnie uses a simple weapon by enploying complex techniques, and Leo uses a warrior's weapon with restraint.
The katana is a self-defense weapon for a warrior. When on the battlefield, they have the ranged weapon, spear, naginata, and odachi/nagamaki as higher priority weapons. They will turn to the katana only when the previously named weapons are no longer an option. If Leo is passive, having katana plays to a 'fight if you really need to and have no other choice' style. In the (old movies) Leo does not have such a mentality. It's a recent portrayal
That was the best explanation of the turtles specializing in their weapons that I’ve ever heard. It’s much better than saying they each get a different weapon so kids can tell them apart. Well done sir.
But the simple answer is that they got different weapons so that kids could tell them apart like you said. Leaders always had a sword, in japan they would surrender their sword when defeated.
in original comics it was the best way. plus it helps with color blind people. But the each weapon was chosen based on the turtles personalities has always been the case. its also a sign of balance in the group dynamic.
This is why Raphael is my favorite turtle minus his weapon. Nunchaku and ninjatos (basically a katana) r both cool. Shit, I’d even take a Bo staff over sai. Those two pitchfork daggers are really only capable as defensive weapons.
The bo staff is also the most versatile weapon in existence, being a refined version of the first tool of humanity, but it takes a clever and creative mind to take full advantage of it.
@@TheRaptorian I want to add a point about the katana, in real life Samuri's were bowmen first and pikemen after that, the blade was more often use as a status symbol, to show the others who they should emulate, and in war if your fighting with a katana you have no other options left. this is most likely going to be your last stand. so in short Splinter gave the leader of the group the weapon of a man who's out of options.
Incorrect, people gas up the katana as being a final say weapon or useless, but it's not. It's the treasured one a warrior stakes their life in. Bows and horses are expensive, katana then comes after that, the spear is just strategy. @@Ed_man_talking9
@@JagoShogun I'm not saying it's useless, this applies to one handed (or short two-handed in this case) swords all around the world. they're awesome for casual self-defense for the warrior in town, they're just outclassed when it comes to war.
no they arent weapons you keep at home, they are the symbols of war and there's a reason a woman keeps a farm tool or a polearm at home. War is made of a lot of things but this doesn't make swords obsolete.@@Ed_man_talking9
Their weapons don't just represent flaws they have to constantly at war with. They're literally balancing acts for each of them. Leo gets the katanas because aside from his role as a leader, he is known for his restraints. It's also the only weapon out of all four that is designed to be lethal. And in turn it presents the burden of having to make that hard choice to use lethal force when the situation comes. Raph being the one with the short fuse was given a sai out of all weapons. A defensive weapon for the team's literal edgelord. This is meant to temper his aggression and give him space to think about his next move. It's meant to keep him constantly leveled and with his head straight. Mikey, the ever hyperactive one of course gets one of the hardest weapons to master. A pair of nunchakus. They require a great deal of control and focus which is everything that conflicts with Mikey's more rambunctious nature. It's meant to keep him focused and on his toes. Both in body and mind. Donnie needs no further explanation. Often touted as the scholar and tech wiz in the team. The one with the penchant for the most complex puzzles and solutions. His bread and butter is his intellect and his creativity. And what do you pair his ingenuity with? Literally the most simple of all weapons. The Bo Staff. Because Splinter knew that all he ever needs is such a weapon and his analytical mind can carry him. And Donnie being Donnie, he gets that the idea that a weapon's greatest strength may be its simplicity.
If this isn't the canon explanation for the turtles' weapons, then screw canon because this should be it. You just nailed it. I've never been a fan of the sai. But through Raph I sure learned to appreciate this weapon as he became my favorite turtle after I grew up (when I was a kid Don was my favorite) Also thanks to this video I finally see why Mikey would be give the nunchucks!!
I did study with the sai and the tips are not usually sharp contrary to what many might think from looking at them. They're most often designed for catching and disarming weapons, with multiple blocking options and some striking options. One of my favorite weapons along with the tonfa, highly recommend @darlalathan6143
The say is good of you’re a gunner type, first you shoot them, then, provided the sai is wider than the bullet, you insert the say into the bullet hole, and you stretch it wider, to cover up what you can, so it theoretically could make it take longer to diagnose gunshot for COD, or, for those too quick to conclude, eyeball it, and say that it was a stab wound from a sai. Holes hide other holes. Makes sense, doesn’t it?
I agree with everything you said in the video but I would also like to add on how each turtle learnt to use their weapon, like for example Micheal Angelo doesn't use his nunchucks in the traditional way they are supposed to be used, traditionally you're supposed to force the nunchucks to move the way you want but Mikey doesn't do that, he just goes with the flow. Raphael got the Sai but doesn't use them for self defense one thing that is consistent in nearly all Raphael incarnations is that he uses his sais like knuckles, Leo doesn't kill with his katanas and only inflicts non lethal wounds as long as he can and in most incarnations doney either compliments his weapon with technology or implements said technology into his fighting some other way
That is an excellent observation! They indeed add some of their own personality into their techniques, it seems that in this case as a weapon defines a warrior so does a warrior define the purpose of the weapon. Well noted, thank you for watching!
Agreed. If we say the mikey has adhd. A highly complex weapon would likly be the only thing he'd be inspired to concentrate on. Highly stimulating. Kinda adds to the choice of mikey as the last ronan. He is the most gifted of the turtles. He just needs to apply himself. Hence him learning all of his brothers weapons
The nunchucks where given to Mikey because he was the most talented, and it matched his personality in being spontaneous and unpredictable. I can’t remember where I read this but it was from one of the creators. I really liked the videos interpretation of it also.
Makes sense! Mikey is a goofy one for sure but he has surprised us all on many occasions. Also i have to point out that he is one of the best characters in video games due to insane combo speed of the nunchucks 🫡
@@Kara_Kay_Eschel Had a similar idea myself :D a weapon that he can use to traverse the terrain and fight, made a mention of it in my last video. Thank you for watching! th-cam.com/video/5-06F6g6vf8/w-d-xo.html
Yup, Mikey has the most natural talent of the 4 turtles but he also is the most laid back so he doesn't seem the most skilled because he is the laziest. In one of the series there was an episode he had to step up because the other 3 were out of commission and no one took him seriously because it was Mikey. So he focused, he trained and put all his mind to the task at hand and absolutely dominated.
I would argue Raphael getting Sai: he's headstrong and aggressive so he needs extra defense to balance him out. Don with the bow staff: he is more brains than brawn and a staff deals devastating damage with much needed brute strength. A ten year old could do some damage to an adult with a properly scaled staff. Michaelangelo and nun chucks: his energy is all over the place and his focus is everywhere at once which makes him prime to focus on such a chaotic weapon. His brain is wired to flow with chaos. I believe your Leo was spot on: two katanas means double potential kill strokes. Maximum violence potential but in the measured hand of a true leader he wields that power with wisdom.
As i was watching your video something i realized is that, since leo is the unspoken leader, it can be argued that splinter saw him as the most mature and so trusted him with the most dangerous weapon. It can be inferred that Splinter felt that Leo can keep a cool head to attack or defend himself if absolutely neccessary since most of the time, the turtles are hidden from the outside world. Great video.
Thank you so much for the kind words! I believe so too, it makes sense as Leo is probably the most focused of all four brothers! Excellent observation 👍
I LOVE this theory. I'm 44, and grew up with the original cartoon. I've had my ideas about the weapon choices, but (in my mind) they were COMPLIMENTARY to the characters, rather than CONTRADICTORY... Leo and "katana": Front line weapons (leading from the front rather than the rear) that are good offensively, able to dispatch enemies quickly, and defensively as their reach can help protect his brothers. Raph and Sai: Up close, in your face weapons, that encourage him to rush in and let his anger burst out, allowing him to strike really quickly, as if he were punching. Donny and the Bo: The lengthy, linear weapon lets him keep some distance if he needs (as he focuses more on the intelligent mind than the strength and speed of the body), and the linear nature of the Bo lets him do easy geometry to plan strikes and defenses, even when surrounded. Mikey and nunchuks: He lives in the moment and doesn't really think. Joyous and energetic in nature, he lives to just follow and groove and dance. He's clearly the Taoist in the group, and the nunchuks bend and flow with him. Plus, to a teen in the 80's... Nunchuks are just RAD. 🤘 But your CONTRADICTION theory is SO COOL!!! It fits so well, and I'd never thought of it like that. I think I'm liking your idea better than mine... Although... I have just had a thought... I think I'M right... If the TURTLES choose the weapons. And I think YOU'RE right if they were chosen by Splinter. Which is just awesome that you and I (and Splinter and the Turtles) all came to the same weapon choices for completely opposite reasons. Needless to say, I now have a new fan theory to contemplate for the next week or two. 🥰
Both theories make sense bro, however we must take into consideration that both might be wrong too and the weapons might have been random XD But hey that's why they are fan theories :D
I don’t think he gave Leonardo the sword because he WANTS him to kill or have edge but because he will be most responsible with something so dangerous.
Leonardo being given the swords was symbolic. His REAL weapon is Decision making. Specifically the decision to let an enemy live or die. He's not just the leader. He's the Judge. Leonardo is the kindest, most passive Turtle, but since fate chose him as the leader, ultimately everyone's lives are in his hands. The weight of his decisions are immense. Those 2 swords serve as a constant reminder that there will be moments where he has to override his peaceful nature & end a life ... because not all enemies can be reasoned or dealt with. Some beings are so evil, so dangerous, that they have to be destroyed for the greater good.
i loved how the newer renditions of the tmnt group make the turtles more unique other then their bandanna's and weapons with each turtles apparel leaning towards their specialty and tieing in their weapons making them fit even more with their characters
There truly is a lot of room to play around with the weapons as they are ninjas all in all, wouldn't be unreasonable for them to master multiple weapons.
The best answer for Leo is not "violence is the solution." Having not one but two very sharp weapons meant for killing and giving it to the most responsible warrior, this juxtaposition is not a flaw in the turtle but the flaw in the weapon. That is what makes Leo unique amongst his brothers. I think the best reason to give Leo the Katana is to teach him passiveness. Oroku Saki weilded a single katana and used it for death. Splinter gave Leo dual katanas and he uses it to protect life. I also find it intriguing that all turtles with the exception of Donnie dual weild. Perhaps its because his weapon is dual purpose. He can use it in battle as a weapon or in life as a walking cane. I can go in for days about the juxtapositions of TMNT. Love this franchise since 1990 when my parents bought me the original VHS.
That actually makes sense to me. That they would all get a weapon that would help them adapt to their own personality, and not be consumed by their limits.
Most violent weapon for the calmest. (Leonardo) Defensive weapon for the most aggresive. (Raphael) Simplest weapon for the most creative. (Donatello) Most complicated weapon for the most absent-minded. (Michelangelo)
I've thought about their weapons like this: Leonardo: for a patient and skilled martial artist and warrior; to match a resolve that has been tempered in steadfast principles Raphael: up-close-and-personal combat like the claws of a ferocious beast; versatile, yet difficult to control Michelangelo: wild and lively; they might seem less dangerous than the other weapons, but once the guard is down, they switch the pattern and pack a wallop Donatello: for a pacifist who best supports the team via non-combative measures such as strategizing, creative thinking, and real talk; a novice user is able to defend from a distance, and in the hands of a master, it is the most effective weapon in preventing harm I'm of course talking about Courage, Passion, Joy & Wisom
I've been a Ninja Turtles fan since college! After seeing their first live-action movie, I immediately joined the Shotokan Karate Club at my university! It changed my life forever! 😁😃🤓😎
Heck yeah! I also trained Karate for like 9 years! Awesome times! My inspiration was Kobra Kai tho xd but turtles were there for most of my childhood! Thanks so much for watching!
A very deep thoughts. You're speaking not only about why Splinter choose the respected weapons to each turtle. It's all about the philosophy of Splinter's teaching. I'm amazed.
My pleasure. After having been a fan for so long with no one to discuss this with, it's nice to see that there's someone else out there who will talk about TMNT.
@@TheRaptorian Yeah, I got lucky. They filmed in Wilmington, my hometown. My mom worked for the movie studio at the time and saw that they were looking for extras. So I asked to do it. The rest is history.
I think that’s why I like Rise of the tmnt Donny a little extra, it doesn’t make sense that a tech genius would keep using a piece of wood, so his “tech bo” can be a hammer, a spear, or real heavy titanium composite stick, and it has some rocket propulsion and extra grabby arms and saws for utility purposes. It might fly in the face of splinter’s reminder of “keep it simple” but it made sense and was the most versatile weapon on the teem. Personally though I always thought Donny should the archer of the group, still contributing but back a couple steps from his brothers so he can put his tactical mind to use. Everyone else it split on though and the weapons are iconic, although it would be funny to see Raph duel wielding sledgehammers.
Dude, based on a sub request I made a video about what weapons I think would suit them the best and I struggled so much with Donnie, was so torn between a bow and a blowgun and in the end went with a blowgun. Good stuff, I agree!
That was really deep bro, I've watched the turtles all my life and it never occurred to me thanks for the insightful analysis. I'm 37 years now and i'm still a fan of the turtles and I will introduce my son to them.
Couldn't have said it better my myself, and I definitely agree with Mikey where he needs something to focus meanwhile going with the flow at the same time
Your theory is 100% accurate and what I do love is that every weapon does balance out the persons character I’ve always felt that I was a mixture of Michelangelo and Rafael when I was younger I had explosive anger but I grew out of it but deep in my heart now I don’t wanna harm nobody but I’ve always been scared that if I have to kill someone, I won’t follow through but I understand that there are times whereyou just have to. I’ve also been told that I like focus so I guess I’m a mixture of Ralph Leonardo and Mikey I don’t. I don’t get it though but you is 100%.
Nice theory. Here’s the problem. The turtles all wore red originally and the first comics were black and white. They had different weapons so you could tell them apart. Also, Michelangelo was originally the most violent turtle. The personalities you know, besides Leonardo, were created for the cartoon and the aggressive Raphael didn’t appear until the first live action movie. In other words, the weapons were well established long before their current personalities were. Finally, the psi and nunchaku were never ancient weapons, or really any weapons prior to being used for displays by modern martial artists.
I really like the idea of each of their weapons both compensating for their each turtle's greatest flaw while elevating their greatest strength. Donnie is the Smart one of the group and often looks for complex solutions. Him having a bo staff is almost ironic because its one of the oldest and simplest weapons in recorded history. however, its its extremely versatile and capable of being used in many complex ways. Mikey is wild and High energy, but iirc he is very talented. Him to use the weapon that requires the most skill Forces him to focus more as to no backfire. at the same time, works well with his spontaneous and unpredictable nature. Raph has a pair of Sai, designed with fast jabs and defense in mind. they're capable of capturing opponent's weapons with the hooks and disarm them. Raph, being the aggressive Brawler of the group, also often uses them with his fists, making his punches even more deadly. Leo is the leader and IIRC is much more passive than the others. Important to note is that Katana were not battlefield weapons and better suited as a backup or self-defense weapons used by Samurai. otehr than that, i dont really have much to say about Leo.
Because he’s passive, and that counter to his personality. Don’t you find it interesting that Leonardo has the most lethal weapon, while still being passive? Splinter gave him that because he is a leader, and regardless of his personal ideals, when it comes down to it, he must make the hard choice. Kill or be killed. That’s why he gave him that weapon
Its amazing how the old animations have so much hidden philosophy in them Besides TMNT, avatar the last airbender also has a bunch of this same philosophy all compacted in one character and both series make it clear to a little more focused eye to catch
Awesome deep analysis dude. Goes to show how much you love the franchise. I started with the 2003 and Fast Forward series myself, though I prefer the April of the 80s. So much hotter. And Casey was a mix of Harry Callahan, Frank Castle, and Jason Voorhees. Always got a laugh out of Shredder and Krane arguing.
Good thoery. Very interesting. My theory might sound a little diffrerent, though. My theory is that since Leonardo possesses patience and focus, he uses a pair of Ninjaken. A dangerous sets of weapons that he would rather keep sheathed, but is ready to use them when diplomacy fails. Sort of like how a dragon has all of its strength and ferocity, but is patient enough to not use them immediately. Donatello being the smartest of the Turtles, he uses a staff and demonstrates his analytical nature by seeing and exploiting the weak points in his opponents with a very simple weapon. Raphael being the strongest and the most hot-tempered, he gets a pair of sais because he's a force-on-force type of fighter. The lack of reach with the sais allows him to get in close like he likes to do while also affording him defensive capabilities. And Michelangelo gets a pair of nunchakus to compliment his nimbleness, flexibility, and inability to stay still...much like the weapons themselves once you get them moving. I understand how the guy who posted the video says that Master Splinter gave them weapons to counter what is in their nature to do and force them to master them. But I see it as Master Splinter seeing their natural abilities and approaches to the fight and giving them their weapons to compliment their combat prowess.
I hope my video is a topic of discussion I love to hear others with their theories and I like yours a lot! Thank you for such a lovely and elaborate comment and I hope you enjoyed the video as much as I did reading your take on things
Great video, Great theory and great explanation… Got yourself a new sub. As a lifelong fan of the turtles, I’ve always wondered why each turtle got the weapon that they got??… I had heard a similar theory to yours, regarding the turtles getting their weapons based on their weaknesses and not their strengths… Basically, each turtle got their weapons because it was the one weapon that they had the most trouble mastering… Splinter saw this and assigned each turtle their weapon… Again, great video, great theory, great explanation and if this doesn’t become canon in some interpretation of the Turtles, it damn well should be…
Your very welcome… If anything, I should be thanking you for making such a great video and for a well thought out and well explained theory… I’m not a content creator myself, but I understand that it takes a lot of time, research, thought and in almost all cases, a good amount of money to create content for TH-cam and hope that someone or some people take time out of their day to enjoy it… Keep up the good work my Serbian friend… From a lifelong Ninja Turtle fan in the U.S.
Two points of contention for this. 1st, as a staff user myself I can tell you that they are probably the most underrated and most versatile of all. A well trained person can easily handle multiple opponents at once without killing, rather leaving them on the ground in various stages of pain. 2nd, Michaelangelo is the most Ninja of the four, in that he uses his "Goof ball" status to completely get people to underestimate or dismiss him. One of the Ninjas greatest tools was deception after all, so he made sure to hone that reputation. That said, while he didn't train as often as his brothers, he did train longer and harder than any of them.
Hey thanks for watching. Oh for sure I agree about the staff efficiency, it's simplicity and heritage might be why he got it 😅 very interesting idea about Michelangelo, perhaps, I mean it could be possible but eh, I think he is just light hearted like that. Guess he adds the teenage in Tmnt 🤔
@@TheRaptorian for sure he is very light hearted, that part is not a play, but the 2003 TMNT series, specifically the battery nexus arc, proves there is more than meets the eye.
Fun Facts. Sais were actually more blunt rather than sharp the trident characteristics used for disarming as u atated and combined with the blunt edge and durability make good for blocking a bo staff and beating around the ribs and other vital points and the bo staff was originally made of bamboo tho hollow is harder to actually snap and break and the teqhnique of spinning around ur back is more of a teqhnique of getting everyone to back away from u when surrounded by multiple enemies
Thank you so much for the kind words, I will. I am a gamer (at least I try to be 😅) but I love all things related to cartoons and comics, TMNT are one of my favorites! Hope I won't disappoint 🤞😉
The nunchucks are not a weapon. They are a training tool. I remember watching a live action TMNT spinoff where Michelangelo was using Tonfa. The first question I had was why the weapon change. When I learned more about the Nunchucks I said, "That was an intelligent weapon change."
Without watching the vid: my take is that he chose weapons for each turtle that would challenge their biggest weaknesses while also playing to their strengths. Leo - given swords to challenge him to be a decisive leader. He has the deadliest weapons, so he needs to be truly judicial with how he uses them. Mikey: given nunchaku to teach him discipline and responsibility as they are the most technically difficult weapon, one that can hurt him if he’s not careful and precise. Donatello: given a bo staff as the simplest weapon. Splinter most likely wanted Donnie to use his exceptional mind to keep innovating and find new ways to be effective. Raph: given a mostly defensive weapon as he was the most hotheaded of the group so he could learn restraint and control.
as a Mikey main and enjoyer, I never realized how akin I am to him. I can be pie-in-the-sky, short attention span, not commit myself, I love comics, videogames, but when I apply myself? I am a potential beast. It's just really hard to commit to things for long times unless I'm shown otherwise.
Thank you! I cannot promise more tmnt off the bat but they will be a part of the channel for sure as they were a part of my childhood and they are awesome! Thanks so much for watching!
I am actually a person who has some experience with some weapons. Of course, not ALL and not a deep level of understanding, but I can punch in some of my own thoughts. Realistically, in fights, you woudn't want to "Balance" your potential. If you're naturally fast thinking and nimble, giving you something that requires patience and slows you down is a subpar move. It may give you an important lesson on how to be more well-rounded, but in general, you WANT to stack your cards. If you're fast, take a weapon that makes you faster, if you're a heavy lifter, use something that uses your strength and mass. And I will be analysing the weapons in that way, starting with: Sais, in the way that Raph uses them, are basically just a buff to his punching. He's a brawler. His fighting style is basically just... hand to hand, but with Sais, he basically has a spike at the end of his fists. So it is an enhancement. And a bit better than his original one. Tonfas. A Tonfa is that wooden stick he used to use, modern police use them as an alternative to electric weapons or traditional batons. I can only imagine Splinter gave Ralph those things because he was afraid that he would be killing people by accident with anything more deadly... It's Raph... Mikey has a Nunchaku. Also called the Nunchucks. Before everything, there is a misconception in certain groups, spread by people like Shadiversity, that Nunchucks are not a "historical" weapon, that they were invented by and for Hollywood, or that they're not really even "Effective". To that I say, if a stick is effective, then a stick rapidly spinning on a chain is also. And Nunchucks are definitely good for Mikey, because that whole myth arose from the notion that they're just a "Show weapon". They were used in Jackie chan movies because they're cool. More flashy than they are dangerous. And so is Mikey. People underestimate mikey because he's a goofball who likes to show off and crack jokes, so he has the most toy-like weapon that is also deceptively effective. Now onto the weapons I actually had in my hand and used: Donnie and his Bo staff: It has a cool asian name, but it's not actually an asian weapon... it's a stick. And I've used those, though not for "Combat", more for an art that's closer to dance or circus tricks. But, let's be honest, I'd handle myself with a staff, if you can do tricks with spinning it, you can do hitting... Oh yeah. that's actually kind of the only weapon that works against Donnie, instead of with him. A genius, a tech wiz, and he gets a primitive tool. At one hand, you can make the argument that a staff is so versitile that he could use his creativity, but I'd say that the most likely reason is that he can use it as a tool. after all, it's just a stick. you can do way more than hit with it. You can deflect weapons, touch things from afar, move objects, use it to catch yourself when falling, etc. Lastly, there's Leo with his sword. It's supposed to be a "Katana", but I've never used a Katana, only sabers. Luckily, Leo doesn't actually use a katana, he uses a one-handed Uchigatana... which is basically a type of saber and anyone who says otherwise is probably one of the people who idolise Japan way too much. It's an heavily modified saber. And those are PERFECT for leaders. Not just because swords are "Protagonist weapons" although that is also the case, but because you actually need a lot of technique, timing, patience, restraint and even a dash of the unexpected to push your weapon to its limits. And it takes an INSANE ammount of practice to dual wield one handed swords. Practice and discipline. And being a responsible perfectionist is Leo's whole deal anyway, so swords not only help him grow in that way, but also complement his fighting style
I remember back in the 2006 ninja turtles cartoon. The finale of the first season was the turtles raising shredders tower and Leonardo beheaded him. Yes, sliced the head of the shredder off his shoulders. (Well in this version, shredder as a brain in a robot) the turtles went to shredders base with the intent of carrying out an assassination!
While i do agree that the choice of weapons was deliberate, im not entirely sold that Donatello and Leonardos were really meant to balance their flaws, so much as work to their strengths. That Raph gets the defensive weapon because he's aggressive, and if he had swords, he'd be killing people left and right makes sense to me. As is that Michaelangelo has a weapon that he has to focus to even use seems to track. But with Donatello, i think it's because the simplicity of the staff is actually what allows for creative use of it. The staff has many uses. A"stick" is at the core of tool use in general. Even as a weapon, the staff is good because, while not particularly deadly, it is incredibly effective as an offensive and defensive weapon, and a very good choice for a logical mind who understands things like angles and leverage. With Leonardo, i think that it isnt so much about wanteing to force Leonardo put of his relatively passive nature. I believe that it's because he has trust that Leonardo will not use anymore force than necessary. Give Raph swords, he's just going to rampage with it. Give it to Mike, and Mike treats it all like a game while carrying the deadliest weapon. Give the swords to Donatello, and youve now burden him with a weapon that has a very limited scope for possible ways in which to use it. But who would you want to give the most dangerous weapon to? Well, probably to the one that you have enough faith to lead the team in the first place. If you want to make sure that a killing blow is just and necessary, Leonardo is the one to do it. You could argue that Donatello might have the logic and restraint to make him a viable option, but he doesnt have the same strength of conviction to follow through with it in a situation where it might actually be necessary.
Raph: in the original 89 cartoon, he was not aggressive, in the first episodes it was shown that Mikey was more of a hothead. But Splinter's description for Raphael was "No sword on Earth can withstand his sais" So that says that Raph was the foil to Leo, who's description was "His swordsmanship is unmatched" Don: it can also be said that Splinter is further training his mind and adaptability during battle/sparring because while his brothers have blades or chains, he is given just a stick. 89 description "he can disarm any adversary" Mikey: 89, "master of the whirling nunchaukus" , while in the original first episodes, he was shown to be a impatient, he also was shown beating in a robot's frame after it was down. So thwaking something was good anger therapy. As it's (let's face it, it's gotta be canon) evident Mikey has ADHD, he's got a giant pair of lethal fidget spinners. Leo: as the oldest, Splinter gave the katanas to Leo, katanas are considered one of the most traditional Japanese weapons and most likely the one Splinter himself favors as he uses a short stick as a main weapon, which is about the length of a katana. So, passing his prized weapon down to the eldest.
You're pretty close to another theory I follow. Donatello got his because he valued intelligence and technology, almost to the point of dependency. So Splinter handed him the most low tech weapon in history, a stick, and taught him innovation also comes from learning to solve problems with what's available instead of his gadgets. Of course he then modified the stick to be a gadget too so read what you will into how well that lesson hit. Leonardo's katanas symbolize the difficult choices he must make as a leader, reflecting his responsibility and moral code. As the most mature of his brothers, he alone was given the ability to outright kill should it be necessary, and knowing full well Leo would look for every single possible way to avoid that result let Splinter trust his eldest son with them. Your Michelangelo is spot on to my theory, no need to add to it. And really, the same for Raphael. Give the hotheaded one the defensive weapon and the goofy and random one the weapon that requires the most focus. Great video!
Well, the turtles have used other weapons other then the 4 we're all familiar with, where are the weapons they've used throughout the years: Leonardo: Katana, Wakizazi, Ninjaken, Odachi, and the Yumi (Japanese bow) Donatello: Bo Staff, Yari (Japanese spear), Escrima Sticks, and the Naginata Raphael: Sai, Tonfa, Daggers, and Tegaki (claw-like weapons) Michelangelo: Nunchaku, Manriki-Gusari, Kusarigama. Grappling Hook, and the Three-Section Staff
Never before had I thought about this beyond "makes cool toys for kids" but this really hits the mark. I wonder if this was the plan from the start back in the comics or just a happy accident 😅
@@TheRaptorian I certainly would like to believe it was too, so I will! It makes them so much richer as characters. Especially for me with Raph's temper and aggression getting DEFENSIVE weapons. It really shows how much Splinter cared about and did his best to nurture his sons to be the best they could be. If we only focus on improving our strengths and ignore our weaknesses, that only serves to make them more problematic. You absolutely said it brilliantly!
I don't think it's so simple. Remember, before he handed his sons their weapons, Splinter used them himself, taught himself with them, which means, not only did he know his sons' weaknesses, but the weapons' weaknesses as well. The nunchaks, the most intricate of weapons, designed for focus, would've been stronger in Leonardo's hands, the most focused of them all, but then they wouldn't have been used to their full potential. The bo staff could've gone to Mikey thanks to it's simplicity, but then it wouldn't have known complexity. The swords would've been better in the hands of Raf, but then they'd only be used to attack, never defend. The sais would've worked better in Donny's brilliant hands for defense, but their attack capability would never have been used. To say these choices were to shore up Splinter's sons' weaknesses is only looking at half the problem. What if he was also shoring up the weaknesses of the weapons themselves, choosing the most complimentary pair that would raise the most powerful warriors?
Great theory - but the simple truth of the matter is that Splinter trained all of them in *every* Ninja weapon, and they chose their preferred weapons themselves. He occasionally had to force them to trade up weapons when he felt they were getting too comfortable and set in their ways (he made Michaelangelo switch to a Kusarigama in one story, for example, and Mikey was not happy about it)
Leo is a Slider!! And yeah they can be aggressive. I have 4 of em myself!! Ninja have blades, stars/knives, and guillotine/ kunais w/chains. Which is kinda cool but a chain is kinda noisy for a warrior that moves in stealth. So some weapons had to be substituted. The rest of the weapons are those from Shaolin.
Imagine if Splinter gave them the weapons that didn't contradict their nature but complimented it. Like Raf getting the blades and Leo getting the Sai.
Leo: The Sharp Leader, but lacks the will to Kill when he needs too Raph: High Temper, In your face with his rage. Gets the Stabby stabbby weapon Donnie: Smart, Improvises and Uses wit to win. Best weapon to give to someone like this is........... A stick, a Bo Staff to be presice. Mikey: Blunt, Dumb and unfocused............ Nunchucks
You can't stab some with a regular sai as they don't have a point. Like the Jitte they're used as truncheon. However Elektra's sai were pointy, and since the TMNT started out as Daredevil pastiche so were Raph's.
I definitely see your point with raph donny and mikey, but I would say that leo is the most disciplined of the four and holds to splinters teachings the most, so splinter can entrust the katanas to him knowing he wont use them unwisely such as killing haphazardly or being unfocused with them. He knows leo will properly handle them in the balanced way, where as if splinter gave the katanas to raph, he would kill his enemies as ruthlessly as he would thoughtlessly or if he gave them to mikey, mikey would risk hurting himself and others, something like how you wouldnt let a child use power tools
The most aggresive weapon for the least aggresive. Leonardo. The most defensive weapon for the most aggresive. Raphael. The simplest weapon for the most creative. Donatello. The most complex weapon for the most distracted. Mikey.
I disagree with the Leonardo description for one thing. Leo was given the only truly INSTANTLY lethal weapon not to give leo an edge, but to keep leo in check. The Katana defines Leo's flaws by FORCING him to control himself. Because he was balance of the others, he had the rage of Raph, the smarts of Donnie, and the childlike nature of Mike. To less degrees, and in order to maintain that balance, he had to learn how to control the use of his emotions to a point to be balanced.
![Why Weren’t The Other Turtles The Last Ronin? [TMNT:TLR ANALYSIS]](/img/n.gif)
This theory makes a lot of sense when you consider how eaxh turtle utilizes their weapons. Raph uses his Sais like an offensive weapon with punching and striking, Mikey uses a weapon that requires a lot of skill but with the bravado and swagger of a child. Donnie uses a simple weapon by enploying complex techniques, and Leo uses a warrior's weapon with restraint.
Glad you liked it!
The katana is a self-defense weapon for a warrior. When on the battlefield, they have the ranged weapon, spear, naginata, and odachi/nagamaki as higher priority weapons. They will turn to the katana only when the previously named weapons are no longer an option. If Leo is passive, having katana plays to a 'fight if you really need to and have no other choice' style. In the (old movies) Leo does not have such a mentality. It's a recent portrayal
@@alexhulea2735 I see, didnt know that, maybe it could be atributed as a weapon that can inflict mortal wounds that didnt sit with him?
I think your post explains more as to why these weapons compliment each turtle and not to balance out their flaws IMO.
@@TheRaptorian TMNT 2012 Definitely Explores This Abit
That was the best explanation of the turtles specializing in their weapons that I’ve ever heard. It’s much better than saying they each get a different weapon so kids can tell them apart. Well done sir.
Thank you so much! I am very glad you enjoyed the video!
But the simple answer is that they got different weapons so that kids could tell them apart like you said. Leaders always had a sword, in japan they would surrender their sword when defeated.
in original comics it was the best way. plus it helps with color blind people. But the each weapon was chosen based on the turtles personalities has always been the case. its also a sign of balance in the group dynamic.
This is why Raphael is my favorite turtle minus his weapon. Nunchaku and ninjatos (basically a katana) r both cool. Shit, I’d even take a Bo staff over sai. Those two pitchfork daggers are really only capable as defensive weapons.
@@ianjohnson7761 If you have a moment check my other video I think you wont be disapointed with what I gave to Ralph XD
The bo staff is also the most versatile weapon in existence, being a refined version of the first tool of humanity, but it takes a clever and creative mind to take full advantage of it.
Absolutely, a tool as much as a weapon! Thanks for watching!
@@TheRaptorian I want to add a point about the katana, in real life Samuri's were bowmen first and pikemen after that, the blade was more often use as a status symbol, to show the others who they should emulate, and in war if your fighting with a katana you have no other options left. this is most likely going to be your last stand.
so in short Splinter gave the leader of the group the weapon of a man who's out of options.
Incorrect, people gas up the katana as being a final say weapon or useless, but it's not. It's the treasured one a warrior stakes their life in.
Bows and horses are expensive, katana then comes after that, the spear is just strategy.
@@Ed_man_talking9
@@JagoShogun I'm not saying it's useless, this applies to one handed (or short two-handed in this case) swords all around the world. they're awesome for casual self-defense for the warrior in town, they're just outclassed when it comes to war.
no they arent weapons you keep at home, they are the symbols of war and there's a reason a woman keeps a farm tool or a polearm at home. War is made of a lot of things but this doesn't make swords obsolete.@@Ed_man_talking9
I never noticed how their weapons represent the flaws in their personalities. Very interesting.
This is of course just a theory, but I think it fits. Thank you so much for watching!
Their weapons don't just represent flaws they have to constantly at war with. They're literally balancing acts for each of them.
Leo gets the katanas because aside from his role as a leader, he is known for his restraints. It's also the only weapon out of all four that is designed to be lethal. And in turn it presents the burden of having to make that hard choice to use lethal force when the situation comes.
Raph being the one with the short fuse was given a sai out of all weapons. A defensive weapon for the team's literal edgelord. This is meant to temper his aggression and give him space to think about his next move. It's meant to keep him constantly leveled and with his head straight.
Mikey, the ever hyperactive one of course gets one of the hardest weapons to master. A pair of nunchakus. They require a great deal of control and focus which is everything that conflicts with Mikey's more rambunctious nature. It's meant to keep him focused and on his toes. Both in body and mind.
Donnie needs no further explanation. Often touted as the scholar and tech wiz in the team. The one with the penchant for the most complex puzzles and solutions. His bread and butter is his intellect and his creativity. And what do you pair his ingenuity with? Literally the most simple of all weapons. The Bo Staff. Because Splinter knew that all he ever needs is such a weapon and his analytical mind can carry him. And Donnie being Donnie, he gets that the idea that a weapon's greatest strength may be its simplicity.
👏🏻 I couldn’t have said that better myself!👏🏻
If this isn't the canon explanation for the turtles' weapons, then screw canon because this should be it.
You just nailed it.
I've never been a fan of the sai. But through Raph I sure learned to appreciate this weapon as he became my favorite turtle after I grew up (when I was a kid Don was my favorite)
Also thanks to this video I finally see why Mikey would be give the nunchucks!!
The Sai is the only Ninja Turtles weapon I haven't studied yet. I gotta get me one of those!
Apreciate it! Thank you so much for watching! I also think this is far more cool than just different weapons so you can tell them apart 😅
I did study with the sai and the tips are not usually sharp contrary to what many might think from looking at them. They're most often designed for catching and disarming weapons, with multiple blocking options and some striking options. One of my favorite weapons along with the tonfa, highly recommend @darlalathan6143
The say is good of you’re a gunner type, first you shoot them, then, provided the sai is wider than the bullet, you insert the say into the bullet hole, and you stretch it wider, to cover up what you can, so it theoretically could make it take longer to diagnose gunshot for COD, or, for those too quick to conclude, eyeball it, and say that it was a stab wound from a sai. Holes hide other holes. Makes sense, doesn’t it?
I agree with everything you said in the video but I would also like to add on how each turtle learnt to use their weapon, like for example Micheal Angelo doesn't use his nunchucks in the traditional way they are supposed to be used, traditionally you're supposed to force the nunchucks to move the way you want but Mikey doesn't do that, he just goes with the flow.
Raphael got the Sai but doesn't use them for self defense one thing that is consistent in nearly all Raphael incarnations is that he uses his sais like knuckles, Leo doesn't kill with his katanas and only inflicts non lethal wounds as long as he can and in most incarnations doney either compliments his weapon with technology or implements said technology into his fighting some other way
That is an excellent observation! They indeed add some of their own personality into their techniques, it seems that in this case as a weapon defines a warrior so does a warrior define the purpose of the weapon. Well noted, thank you for watching!
Agreed. If we say the mikey has adhd. A highly complex weapon would likly be the only thing he'd be inspired to concentrate on. Highly stimulating.
Kinda adds to the choice of mikey as the last ronan. He is the most gifted of the turtles. He just needs to apply himself. Hence him learning all of his brothers weapons
The nunchucks where given to Mikey because he was the most talented, and it matched his personality in being spontaneous and unpredictable. I can’t remember where I read this but it was from one of the creators. I really liked the videos interpretation of it also.
Makes sense! Mikey is a goofy one for sure but he has surprised us all on many occasions. Also i have to point out that he is one of the best characters in video games due to insane combo speed of the nunchucks 🫡
What about the grappling hook? I know that he had that because of censorship, but more of an in universe explanation
@@Kara_Kay_Eschel Had a similar idea myself :D a weapon that he can use to traverse the terrain and fight, made a mention of it in my last video. Thank you for watching! th-cam.com/video/5-06F6g6vf8/w-d-xo.html
Yup, Mikey has the most natural talent of the 4 turtles but he also is the most laid back so he doesn't seem the most skilled because he is the laziest.
In one of the series there was an episode he had to step up because the other 3 were out of commission and no one took him seriously because it was Mikey. So he focused, he trained and put all his mind to the task at hand and absolutely dominated.
@@Dragon_Lairhe was the last ronin... Super sad if you haven't seen it.
I would argue Raphael getting Sai: he's headstrong and aggressive so he needs extra defense to balance him out. Don with the bow staff: he is more brains than brawn and a staff deals devastating damage with much needed brute strength. A ten year old could do some damage to an adult with a properly scaled staff. Michaelangelo and nun chucks: his energy is all over the place and his focus is everywhere at once which makes him prime to focus on such a chaotic weapon. His brain is wired to flow with chaos. I believe your Leo was spot on: two katanas means double potential kill strokes. Maximum violence potential but in the measured hand of a true leader he wields that power with wisdom.
That is a very valid look on things too, thank you for watching and commenting, i like that theory!
As i was watching your video something i realized is that, since leo is the unspoken leader, it can be argued that splinter saw him as the most mature and so trusted him with the most dangerous weapon. It can be inferred that Splinter felt that Leo can keep a cool head to attack or defend himself if absolutely neccessary since most of the time, the turtles are hidden from the outside world. Great video.
Thank you so much for the kind words! I believe so too, it makes sense as Leo is probably the most focused of all four brothers! Excellent observation 👍
It’s a known fact that Michelangelo has the highest potential
The Last Ronin shows just how much he can grow...but the cost he paid...
I LOVE this theory. I'm 44, and grew up with the original cartoon. I've had my ideas about the weapon choices, but (in my mind) they were COMPLIMENTARY to the characters, rather than CONTRADICTORY...
Leo and "katana": Front line weapons (leading from the front rather than the rear) that are good offensively, able to dispatch enemies quickly, and defensively as their reach can help protect his brothers.
Raph and Sai: Up close, in your face weapons, that encourage him to rush in and let his anger burst out, allowing him to strike really quickly, as if he were punching.
Donny and the Bo: The lengthy, linear weapon lets him keep some distance if he needs (as he focuses more on the intelligent mind than the strength and speed of the body), and the linear nature of the Bo lets him do easy geometry to plan strikes and defenses, even when surrounded.
Mikey and nunchuks: He lives in the moment and doesn't really think. Joyous and energetic in nature, he lives to just follow and groove and dance. He's clearly the Taoist in the group, and the nunchuks bend and flow with him. Plus, to a teen in the 80's... Nunchuks are just RAD. 🤘
But your CONTRADICTION theory is SO COOL!!! It fits so well, and I'd never thought of it like that. I think I'm liking your idea better than mine...
Although... I have just had a thought... I think I'M right... If the TURTLES choose the weapons. And I think YOU'RE right if they were chosen by Splinter. Which is just awesome that you and I (and Splinter and the Turtles) all came to the same weapon choices for completely opposite reasons.
Needless to say, I now have a new fan theory to contemplate for the next week or two. 🥰
Both theories make sense bro, however we must take into consideration that both might be wrong too and the weapons might have been random XD But hey that's why they are fan theories :D
I don’t think he gave Leonardo the sword because he WANTS him to kill or have edge but because he will be most responsible with something so dangerous.
He wants them to kill. The turtles kill and splinter kills.
Leonardo being given the swords was symbolic. His REAL weapon is Decision making. Specifically the decision to let an enemy live or die. He's not just the leader. He's the Judge. Leonardo is the kindest, most passive Turtle, but since fate chose him as the leader, ultimately everyone's lives are in his hands. The weight of his decisions are immense. Those 2 swords serve as a constant reminder that there will be moments where he has to override his peaceful nature & end a life ... because not all enemies can be reasoned or dealt with. Some beings are so evil, so dangerous, that they have to be destroyed for the greater good.
i loved how the newer renditions of the tmnt group make the turtles more unique other then their bandanna's and weapons with each turtles apparel leaning towards their specialty and tieing in their weapons making them fit even more with their characters
There truly is a lot of room to play around with the weapons as they are ninjas all in all, wouldn't be unreasonable for them to master multiple weapons.
"A nerd, a geek, a tech guy...."
Just admit it:
he does machines
Its the truth 😅👍👍👍
Feels like, he doesn't need any powerful weapon, his brain is even more powerful 🤣
The best answer for Leo is not "violence is the solution." Having not one but two very sharp weapons meant for killing and giving it to the most responsible warrior, this juxtaposition is not a flaw in the turtle but the flaw in the weapon. That is what makes Leo unique amongst his brothers.
I think the best reason to give Leo the Katana is to teach him passiveness. Oroku Saki weilded a single katana and used it for death. Splinter gave Leo dual katanas and he uses it to protect life.
I also find it intriguing that all turtles with the exception of Donnie dual weild. Perhaps its because his weapon is dual purpose. He can use it in battle as a weapon or in life as a walking cane.
I can go in for days about the juxtapositions of TMNT. Love this franchise since 1990 when my parents bought me the original VHS.
That actually makes sense to me. That they would all get a weapon that would help them adapt to their own personality, and not be consumed by their limits.
An excellent explanation to each, but also a reminder that all of them have trained, extensively, with the other turtles' weapons as well
For sure a warrior cannot be proficient with just one weapon! Thank you for the kind words 🙏
Most violent weapon for the calmest. (Leonardo)
Defensive weapon for the most aggresive. (Raphael)
Simplest weapon for the most creative. (Donatello)
Most complicated weapon for the most absent-minded. (Michelangelo)
I've thought about their weapons like this:
Leonardo: for a patient and skilled martial artist and warrior; to match a resolve that has been tempered in steadfast principles
Raphael: up-close-and-personal combat like the claws of a ferocious beast; versatile, yet difficult to control
Michelangelo: wild and lively; they might seem less dangerous than the other weapons, but once the guard is down, they switch the pattern and pack a wallop
Donatello: for a pacifist who best supports the team via non-combative measures such as strategizing, creative thinking, and real talk; a novice user is able to defend from a distance, and in the hands of a master, it is the most effective weapon in preventing harm
I'm of course talking about Courage, Passion, Joy & Wisom
I like it!
I've been a Ninja Turtles fan since college! After seeing their first live-action movie, I immediately joined the Shotokan Karate Club at my university! It changed my life forever! 😁😃🤓😎
Heck yeah! I also trained Karate for like 9 years! Awesome times! My inspiration was Kobra Kai tho xd but turtles were there for most of my childhood! Thanks so much for watching!
A very deep thoughts. You're speaking not only about why Splinter choose the respected weapons to each turtle. It's all about the philosophy of Splinter's teaching. I'm amazed.
Thank you so much
Either fate or great writing if they really planned it out like this 🔥
Whichever it was, it was good 😊 Thanks for watching brother!
Leo doesn't want to hurt anyone, so he's given the most deadliest weapon so that if he is not precise, he can severly injure/danger someone.
My pleasure. After having been a fan for so long with no one to discuss this with, it's nice to see that there's someone else out there who will talk about TMNT.
By all means, its lovely to hear what people have to say about TMNT taken as we all love the series and how big part of our lives it has been!
@@TheRaptorian You're right. Being in the first movie and working behind the scenes of the second movie are amazing childhood memories for me.
@@DrachenWulf13 holy guacamole, you were a part of that? How cool!
@@TheRaptorian Yeah, I got lucky. They filmed in Wilmington, my hometown. My mom worked for the movie studio at the time and saw that they were looking for extras. So I asked to do it. The rest is history.
I think that’s why I like Rise of the tmnt Donny a little extra, it doesn’t make sense that a tech genius would keep using a piece of wood, so his “tech bo” can be a hammer, a spear, or real heavy titanium composite stick, and it has some rocket propulsion and extra grabby arms and saws for utility purposes. It might fly in the face of splinter’s reminder of “keep it simple” but it made sense and was the most versatile weapon on the teem. Personally though I always thought Donny should the archer of the group, still contributing but back a couple steps from his brothers so he can put his tactical mind to use.
Everyone else it split on though and the weapons are iconic, although it would be funny to see Raph duel wielding sledgehammers.
Dude, based on a sub request I made a video about what weapons I think would suit them the best and I struggled so much with Donnie, was so torn between a bow and a blowgun and in the end went with a blowgun. Good stuff, I agree!
That was really deep bro, I've watched the turtles all my life and it never occurred to me thanks for the insightful analysis. I'm 37 years now and i'm still a fan of the turtles and I will introduce my son to them.
TMNT are forever :D
Couldn't have said it better my myself, and I definitely agree with Mikey where he needs something to focus meanwhile going with the flow at the same time
Your theory is 100% accurate and what I do love is that every weapon does balance out the persons character I’ve always felt that I was a mixture of Michelangelo and Rafael when I was younger I had explosive anger but I grew out of it but deep in my heart now I don’t wanna harm nobody but I’ve always been scared that if I have to kill someone, I won’t follow through but I understand that there are times whereyou just have to. I’ve also been told that I like focus so I guess I’m a mixture of Ralph Leonardo and Mikey I don’t. I don’t get it though but you is 100%.
Didn't know this theory existed but it makes a whole lot of sense.
I can't say I completely agree with you but I do like your opinion it's really insightful you did a very good job on the video
Thank you chief 😁
Never really thought about it that way but it totally makes sense. Awesome analysis man!
Thanks so much for the kind words!
This is an awesome take on how they each got their weapons. I'm going with this! 👍🏾
Hey appreciate the kind words my man 🤜🤛 Glad you liked it! 😁
Nice theory. Here’s the problem. The turtles all wore red originally and the first comics were black and white. They had different weapons so you could tell them apart. Also, Michelangelo was originally the most violent turtle. The personalities you know, besides Leonardo, were created for the cartoon and the aggressive Raphael didn’t appear until the first live action movie. In other words, the weapons were well established long before their current personalities were. Finally, the psi and nunchaku were never ancient weapons, or really any weapons prior to being used for displays by modern martial artists.
Wow great insight! Thanks so much for that input I really didn't know that!
Although the sai has similarities with the jutte, which is a much older weapon.
I really like the idea of each of their weapons both compensating for their each turtle's greatest flaw while elevating their greatest strength.
Donnie is the Smart one of the group and often looks for complex solutions. Him having a bo staff is almost ironic because its one of the oldest and simplest weapons in recorded history. however, its its extremely versatile and capable of being used in many complex ways.
Mikey is wild and High energy, but iirc he is very talented. Him to use the weapon that requires the most skill Forces him to focus more as to no backfire. at the same time, works well with his spontaneous and unpredictable nature.
Raph has a pair of Sai, designed with fast jabs and defense in mind. they're capable of capturing opponent's weapons with the hooks and disarm them. Raph, being the aggressive Brawler of the group, also often uses them with his fists, making his punches even more deadly.
Leo is the leader and IIRC is much more passive than the others. Important to note is that Katana were not battlefield weapons and better suited as a backup or self-defense weapons used by Samurai. otehr than that, i dont really have much to say about Leo.
Because he’s passive, and that counter to his personality. Don’t you find it interesting that Leonardo has the most lethal weapon, while still being passive? Splinter gave him that because he is a leader, and regardless of his personal ideals, when it comes down to it, he must make the hard choice. Kill or be killed. That’s why he gave him that weapon
Its amazing how the old animations have so much hidden philosophy in them
Besides TMNT, avatar the last airbender also has a bunch of this same philosophy all compacted in one character and both series make it clear to a little more focused eye to catch
Awesome deep analysis dude. Goes to show how much you love the franchise. I started with the 2003 and Fast Forward series myself, though I prefer the April of the 80s. So much hotter. And Casey was a mix of Harry Callahan, Frank Castle, and Jason Voorhees. Always got a laugh out of Shredder and Krane arguing.
80s version is my favourite as well, thank you so much for the kind words 🙏🫡😊
Good thoery. Very interesting. My theory might sound a little diffrerent, though. My theory is that since Leonardo possesses patience and focus, he uses a pair of Ninjaken. A dangerous sets of weapons that he would rather keep sheathed, but is ready to use them when diplomacy fails. Sort of like how a dragon has all of its strength and ferocity, but is patient enough to not use them immediately. Donatello being the smartest of the Turtles, he uses a staff and demonstrates his analytical nature by seeing and exploiting the weak points in his opponents with a very simple weapon. Raphael being the strongest and the most hot-tempered, he gets a pair of sais because he's a force-on-force type of fighter. The lack of reach with the sais allows him to get in close like he likes to do while also affording him defensive capabilities. And Michelangelo gets a pair of nunchakus to compliment his nimbleness, flexibility, and inability to stay still...much like the weapons themselves once you get them moving. I understand how the guy who posted the video says that Master Splinter gave them weapons to counter what is in their nature to do and force them to master them. But I see it as Master Splinter seeing their natural abilities and approaches to the fight and giving them their weapons to compliment their combat prowess.
I hope my video is a topic of discussion I love to hear others with their theories and I like yours a lot! Thank you for such a lovely and elaborate comment and I hope you enjoyed the video as much as I did reading your take on things
Great video, Great theory and great explanation… Got yourself a new sub. As a lifelong fan of the turtles, I’ve always wondered why each turtle got the weapon that they got??… I had heard a similar theory to yours, regarding the turtles getting their weapons based on their weaknesses and not their strengths… Basically, each turtle got their weapons because it was the one weapon that they had the most trouble mastering… Splinter saw this and assigned each turtle their weapon… Again, great video, great theory, great explanation and if this doesn’t become canon in some interpretation of the Turtles, it damn well should be…
Thank you so much for the kind words 🙏
Your very welcome… If anything, I should be thanking you for making such a great video and for a well thought out and well explained theory… I’m not a content creator myself, but I understand that it takes a lot of time, research, thought and in almost all cases, a good amount of money to create content for TH-cam and hope that someone or some people take time out of their day to enjoy it… Keep up the good work my Serbian friend… From a lifelong Ninja Turtle fan in the U.S.
Your points are very educated, I think this would be Splinter's mindset behind his choices as well
Your words humble me ❤️
@@TheRaptorian thank you, likewise ♥️
And Venus had magic because … turtle magic! I’m just high enough to really enjoy this video. Well played good sir!
😅
Two points of contention for this.
1st, as a staff user myself I can tell you that they are probably the most underrated and most versatile of all. A well trained person can easily handle multiple opponents at once without killing, rather leaving them on the ground in various stages of pain.
2nd, Michaelangelo is the most Ninja of the four, in that he uses his "Goof ball" status to completely get people to underestimate or dismiss him. One of the Ninjas greatest tools was deception after all, so he made sure to hone that reputation.
That said, while he didn't train as often as his brothers, he did train longer and harder than any of them.
Hey thanks for watching. Oh for sure I agree about the staff efficiency, it's simplicity and heritage might be why he got it 😅 very interesting idea about Michelangelo, perhaps, I mean it could be possible but eh, I think he is just light hearted like that. Guess he adds the teenage in Tmnt 🤔
@@TheRaptorian for sure he is very light hearted, that part is not a play, but the 2003 TMNT series, specifically the battery nexus arc, proves there is more than meets the eye.
@@Animalover205 And im happy it is so, Mikey deserves some damn respect! 😁🫡
Solid theory. Makes the most sense to me.
Appreciate it, it is however unconfirmed canonically, but thanks so much for the kind words!
Very well thought out and articulated.
Thank you for the kind words, glad that you liked it!
Excellent conclusions man!! 🤯
Thank you, I also made a follow-up video on what I think turtles would choose as their weapons :D I am glad you enjoyed it!
Fun Facts. Sais were actually more blunt rather than sharp the trident characteristics used for disarming as u atated and combined with the blunt edge and durability make good for blocking a bo staff and beating around the ribs and other vital points and the bo staff was originally made of bamboo tho hollow is harder to actually snap and break and the teqhnique of spinning around ur back is more of a teqhnique of getting everyone to back away from u when surrounded by multiple enemies
Nice! Thank you for that didn't know that they made Sai like that, it sure adds some versatility to them as a weapon!
Just found your channel. Loved the video. Not a gamer but love TMNT, MOTU, & other cartoons of that era. Hopefully you'll do a few more.
Thank you so much for the kind words, I will. I am a gamer (at least I try to be 😅) but I love all things related to cartoons and comics, TMNT are one of my favorites! Hope I won't disappoint 🤞😉
@@TheRaptorian most welcome. Thanks again for a great video.
@@KeldorTheWhite pleasure is mine, feels nice to share your thoughts online and see that others enjoy them. It always makes my day! ❤️
This is an awesome analysis. Great work!
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!
The nunchucks are not a weapon. They are a training tool.
I remember watching a live action TMNT spinoff where Michelangelo was using Tonfa. The first question I had was why the weapon change. When I learned more about the Nunchucks I said, "That was an intelligent weapon change."
This was an amazing analysis.
Thank you so much
I love video break downs like this, especially for my childhood heroes 😊
I am glad you liked it! These comments always make my day, I hope my video made yours a tad bit better!
@@TheRaptorian I did enjoy it 😁 I'm glad I found your channel, I subscribed right after the video 😎
3:32 "You want a pickle?" Anytime I see the old live action Michael I just hear that line 😂
Amazing breakdown bro🔥🔥🔥🔥need more weapon of choice videos like this fam...
Appreciate it brother 🫡💪💪💪
Without watching the vid: my take is that he chose weapons for each turtle that would challenge their biggest weaknesses while also playing to their strengths.
Leo - given swords to challenge him to be a decisive leader. He has the deadliest weapons, so he needs to be truly judicial with how he uses them.
Mikey: given nunchaku to teach him discipline and responsibility as they are the most technically difficult weapon, one that can hurt him if he’s not careful and precise.
Donatello: given a bo staff as the simplest weapon. Splinter most likely wanted Donnie to use his exceptional mind to keep innovating and find new ways to be effective.
Raph: given a mostly defensive weapon as he was the most hotheaded of the group so he could learn restraint and control.
Very interesting theory Mr Raptorian. Splinter sought to balance the temperaments of his sons.
Thank you fellow reptile enthusiast!
my pleasure :)@@TheRaptorian
Wow!
This is an amazing way to think about these weapons!😊
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it!
as a Mikey main and enjoyer, I never realized how akin I am to him. I can be pie-in-the-sky, short attention span, not commit myself, I love comics, videogames, but when I apply myself? I am a potential beast. It's just really hard to commit to things for long times unless I'm shown otherwise.
This video was a true pleasure ❤
Pleasure was all mine! Thank you so much ❤️
yo! great video and I've heard this theory before so I almost want to believe that it's pretty much canon...
Man, I like to think that it is, I mean it fits so well in my opinion, hence the video. Thanks for the kind words!
All sound very accurate. Good analysis dude.😃😁👍🏽💚
Thank you, brother! Appreciate the support, glad you enjoyed it! 😁🤜🤛
I actually really like this because it's deeper than oh it's so you don't have the same weapons or something. It makes sense for them personally to
Thank you kindly Mr Escobar! 😅😁👍
This explanation is very logical.
Thank you, glad you enjoyed it! 😁👍
Mikey is unexpectedly the most skilled turtle because of the weapon that he uses
He does have some good moves xD
“The two best teachers in your life will be pain and shame.” - MSgt Jackson
Yet we let those who never knew either lead us.
@@TheRaptorian I’d like a presidential candidate that’s inked up.
Wow that was very informative and interesting.
Thank you so much for the kind words!
@@TheRaptorian Your good content earned my kind words.
Mikey is also the most gifted of the boys. The chucks require a lot of skill. Splinter knew in his hands the chucks would truly shine.
This is an interesting theory, but I wonder if it's what the authors actually had in mind or if it's just a coincidence.
Honestly it could be either, I like to think that it had a deeper meaning but if it didn't that's also cool. Thank you for watching!
Awesome vid dude!!, looking forward to more tnmt content!!!
Thank you! I cannot promise more tmnt off the bat but they will be a part of the channel for sure as they were a part of my childhood and they are awesome! Thanks so much for watching!
I am actually a person who has some experience with some weapons. Of course, not ALL and not a deep level of understanding, but I can punch in some of my own thoughts. Realistically, in fights, you woudn't want to "Balance" your potential. If you're naturally fast thinking and nimble, giving you something that requires patience and slows you down is a subpar move. It may give you an important lesson on how to be more well-rounded, but in general, you WANT to stack your cards. If you're fast, take a weapon that makes you faster, if you're a heavy lifter, use something that uses your strength and mass. And I will be analysing the weapons in that way, starting with:
Sais, in the way that Raph uses them, are basically just a buff to his punching. He's a brawler. His fighting style is basically just... hand to hand, but with Sais, he basically has a spike at the end of his fists. So it is an enhancement. And a bit better than his original one. Tonfas. A Tonfa is that wooden stick he used to use, modern police use them as an alternative to electric weapons or traditional batons. I can only imagine Splinter gave Ralph those things because he was afraid that he would be killing people by accident with anything more deadly... It's Raph...
Mikey has a Nunchaku. Also called the Nunchucks. Before everything, there is a misconception in certain groups, spread by people like Shadiversity, that Nunchucks are not a "historical" weapon, that they were invented by and for Hollywood, or that they're not really even "Effective". To that I say, if a stick is effective, then a stick rapidly spinning on a chain is also. And Nunchucks are definitely good for Mikey, because that whole myth arose from the notion that they're just a "Show weapon". They were used in Jackie chan movies because they're cool. More flashy than they are dangerous. And so is Mikey. People underestimate mikey because he's a goofball who likes to show off and crack jokes, so he has the most toy-like weapon that is also deceptively effective.
Now onto the weapons I actually had in my hand and used:
Donnie and his Bo staff: It has a cool asian name, but it's not actually an asian weapon... it's a stick. And I've used those, though not for "Combat", more for an art that's closer to dance or circus tricks. But, let's be honest, I'd handle myself with a staff, if you can do tricks with spinning it, you can do hitting... Oh yeah. that's actually kind of the only weapon that works against Donnie, instead of with him. A genius, a tech wiz, and he gets a primitive tool. At one hand, you can make the argument that a staff is so versitile that he could use his creativity, but I'd say that the most likely reason is that he can use it as a tool. after all, it's just a stick. you can do way more than hit with it. You can deflect weapons, touch things from afar, move objects, use it to catch yourself when falling, etc.
Lastly, there's Leo with his sword. It's supposed to be a "Katana", but I've never used a Katana, only sabers. Luckily, Leo doesn't actually use a katana, he uses a one-handed Uchigatana... which is basically a type of saber and anyone who says otherwise is probably one of the people who idolise Japan way too much. It's an heavily modified saber. And those are PERFECT for leaders. Not just because swords are "Protagonist weapons" although that is also the case, but because you actually need a lot of technique, timing, patience, restraint and even a dash of the unexpected to push your weapon to its limits. And it takes an INSANE ammount of practice to dual wield one handed swords. Practice and discipline. And being a responsible perfectionist is Leo's whole deal anyway, so swords not only help him grow in that way, but also complement his fighting style
Thank you for taking the time to write this insight, you made some wonderful points 🙏
@@TheRaptorian Oh, you're welcome ^ ^
I remember back in the 2006 ninja turtles cartoon. The finale of the first season was the turtles raising shredders tower and Leonardo beheaded him. Yes, sliced the head of the shredder off his shoulders. (Well in this version, shredder as a brain in a robot) the turtles went to shredders base with the intent of carrying out an assassination!
While i do agree that the choice of weapons was deliberate, im not entirely sold that Donatello and Leonardos were really meant to balance their flaws, so much as work to their strengths. That Raph gets the defensive weapon because he's aggressive, and if he had swords, he'd be killing people left and right makes sense to me. As is that Michaelangelo has a weapon that he has to focus to even use seems to track.
But with Donatello, i think it's because the simplicity of the staff is actually what allows for creative use of it. The staff has many uses. A"stick" is at the core of tool use in general. Even as a weapon, the staff is good because, while not particularly deadly, it is incredibly effective as an offensive and defensive weapon, and a very good choice for a logical mind who understands things like angles and leverage.
With Leonardo, i think that it isnt so much about wanteing to force Leonardo put of his relatively passive nature. I believe that it's because he has trust that Leonardo will not use anymore force than necessary. Give Raph swords, he's just going to rampage with it. Give it to Mike, and Mike treats it all like a game while carrying the deadliest weapon. Give the swords to Donatello, and youve now burden him with a weapon that has a very limited scope for possible ways in which to use it. But who would you want to give the most dangerous weapon to? Well, probably to the one that you have enough faith to lead the team in the first place. If you want to make sure that a killing blow is just and necessary, Leonardo is the one to do it. You could argue that Donatello might have the logic and restraint to make him a viable option, but he doesnt have the same strength of conviction to follow through with it in a situation where it might actually be necessary.
That was an excellent analysis!
Thank you very much, I'm glad that you liked it :D
Excellent analysis 😎👍
Thank you! Glad that you have enjoyed it! 😁
Should be
Raphael = Katana
Donatello = Nunchucks
Leonoardo = Sai
Michelangelo = Bo
Raph: in the original 89 cartoon, he was not aggressive, in the first episodes it was shown that Mikey was more of a hothead. But Splinter's description for Raphael was "No sword on Earth can withstand his sais"
So that says that Raph was the foil to Leo, who's description was "His swordsmanship is unmatched"
Don: it can also be said that Splinter is further training his mind and adaptability during battle/sparring because while his brothers have blades or chains, he is given just a stick. 89 description "he can disarm any adversary"
Mikey: 89, "master of the whirling nunchaukus" , while in the original first episodes, he was shown to be a impatient, he also was shown beating in a robot's frame after it was down. So thwaking something was good anger therapy.
As it's (let's face it, it's gotta be canon) evident Mikey has ADHD, he's got a giant pair of lethal fidget spinners.
Leo: as the oldest, Splinter gave the katanas to Leo, katanas are considered one of the most traditional Japanese weapons and most likely the one Splinter himself favors as he uses a short stick as a main weapon, which is about the length of a katana. So, passing his prized weapon down to the eldest.
Wow, thank you for the elaborate insight! ALso that fidget spinner joke was spot on XD
@@TheRaptorian TMNT is my 2nd favorite fandom 😁
@@draconiclady0610 nice, just out of curiosity what is the 1st?
@TheRaptorian Harry Potter, ☺️
@@draconiclady0610 Now you are talking! Some of my first videos were about Harry Potter 😂
You're pretty close to another theory I follow. Donatello got his because he valued intelligence and technology, almost to the point of dependency. So Splinter handed him the most low tech weapon in history, a stick, and taught him innovation also comes from learning to solve problems with what's available instead of his gadgets. Of course he then modified the stick to be a gadget too so read what you will into how well that lesson hit.
Leonardo's katanas symbolize the difficult choices he must make as a leader, reflecting his responsibility and moral code. As the most mature of his brothers, he alone was given the ability to outright kill should it be necessary, and knowing full well Leo would look for every single possible way to avoid that result let Splinter trust his eldest son with them.
Your Michelangelo is spot on to my theory, no need to add to it. And really, the same for Raphael. Give the hotheaded one the defensive weapon and the goofy and random one the weapon that requires the most focus.
Great video!
I chuckled at Donatello part I must admit, hopefully he got something out of it hahaha, thank you for the wonderful comment and kind words
This perspective of the turtles weapons is true but the opposite is also just as true
Very possible, to be fair, its something that we can just guess on since it was never confirmed 👍
Well, the turtles have used other weapons other then the 4 we're all familiar with, where are the weapons they've used throughout the years:
Leonardo: Katana, Wakizazi, Ninjaken, Odachi, and the Yumi (Japanese bow)
Donatello: Bo Staff, Yari (Japanese spear), Escrima Sticks, and the Naginata
Raphael: Sai, Tonfa, Daggers, and Tegaki (claw-like weapons)
Michelangelo: Nunchaku, Manriki-Gusari, Kusarigama. Grappling Hook, and the Three-Section Staff
Never before had I thought about this beyond "makes cool toys for kids" but this really hits the mark. I wonder if this was the plan from the start back in the comics or just a happy accident 😅
Maybe it wasn't, maybe it was all just random but I like to think it was deeper than that :D
@@TheRaptorian I certainly would like to believe it was too, so I will! It makes them so much richer as characters. Especially for me with Raph's temper and aggression getting DEFENSIVE weapons. It really shows how much Splinter cared about and did his best to nurture his sons to be the best they could be. If we only focus on improving our strengths and ignore our weaknesses, that only serves to make them more problematic. You absolutely said it brilliantly!
@@Sphendrana thank you! Really appreciate the kind words ❤️
very interesting, I didn't know any of this
I don't think it's so simple. Remember, before he handed his sons their weapons, Splinter used them himself, taught himself with them, which means, not only did he know his sons' weaknesses, but the weapons' weaknesses as well. The nunchaks, the most intricate of weapons, designed for focus, would've been stronger in Leonardo's hands, the most focused of them all, but then they wouldn't have been used to their full potential. The bo staff could've gone to Mikey thanks to it's simplicity, but then it wouldn't have known complexity. The swords would've been better in the hands of Raf, but then they'd only be used to attack, never defend. The sais would've worked better in Donny's brilliant hands for defense, but their attack capability would never have been used. To say these choices were to shore up Splinter's sons' weaknesses is only looking at half the problem. What if he was also shoring up the weaknesses of the weapons themselves, choosing the most complimentary pair that would raise the most powerful warriors?
thank you for helping me understand iv been a fan of the nija turtals for 13 years and im 13 years old so yah thank u
Wow very interesting and the philosophy and theories makes good logic , will have a different take on the TMNT ❤
I really appreciate the kind words! Glad you enjoyed the video! ❤️
@TheRaptorian I believe we should be appreciative for you and your explanation of this topic
@@DragonLee777 im just happy you folks like it, makes my day better ❤️
Why did this make me emotional lmao
@@josephbowman8301 because Cowabunga 😭
Boomstick: Mikey is going to die in this fight, isn't he?
Wiz: He better!
Hahahahahaha
Very nice theory and it is true, btw where are youi from ? Sounds like you are from Balkans if im not mistaken
You have some keen ears there my friend :D Thank you so much for watching
Great theory - but the simple truth of the matter is that Splinter trained all of them in *every* Ninja weapon, and they chose their preferred weapons themselves. He occasionally had to force them to trade up weapons when he felt they were getting too comfortable and set in their ways (he made Michaelangelo switch to a Kusarigama in one story, for example, and Mikey was not happy about it)
Yeah that would probably make sense, no warrior ever wields only one weapon xD
Leo is a Slider!! And yeah they can be aggressive. I have 4 of em myself!! Ninja have blades, stars/knives, and guillotine/ kunais w/chains. Which is kinda cool but a chain is kinda noisy for a warrior that moves in stealth. So some weapons had to be substituted. The rest of the weapons are those from Shaolin.
Imagine if Splinter gave them the weapons that didn't contradict their nature but complimented it. Like Raf getting the blades and Leo getting the Sai.
Actually, I made a video on that too XD one of the subscribers had a request and I liked the idea :D Thanks for watching!
I would also like to add that Leo is the only one that shows a level of responsibility and respect worthy of handling swords.
That is true! Last thing we need is a teenage mutant ninja shredder running the sewers 😅🫢
Great video sir!
Thank you! 😊
Leo: The Sharp Leader, but lacks the will to Kill when he needs too
Raph: High Temper, In your face with his rage. Gets the Stabby stabbby weapon
Donnie: Smart, Improvises and Uses wit to win. Best weapon to give to someone like this is........... A stick, a Bo Staff to be presice.
Mikey: Blunt, Dumb and unfocused............ Nunchucks
One correction: Michaelangelo's weapons are not "nunchucks", they're proper name is nunchaku.
Right, thanks for that. Heard many pronunciations and wasn't sure what to go with 😅
You can't stab some with a regular sai as they don't have a point. Like the Jitte they're used as truncheon.
However Elektra's sai were pointy, and since the TMNT started out as Daredevil pastiche so were Raph's.
You forgot to mention that Michaelangelo is the turtle with the orange headband.
Did I? My bad, but you are correct, he does wear an orange colour 🫡😁
I definitely see your point with raph donny and mikey, but I would say that leo is the most disciplined of the four and holds to splinters teachings the most, so splinter can entrust the katanas to him knowing he wont use them unwisely such as killing haphazardly or being unfocused with them. He knows leo will properly handle them in the balanced way, where as if splinter gave the katanas to raph, he would kill his enemies as ruthlessly as he would thoughtlessly or if he gave them to mikey, mikey would risk hurting himself and others, something like how you wouldnt let a child use power tools
That Mikey comment 😅🤣🤣
The most aggresive weapon for the least aggresive. Leonardo.
The most defensive weapon for the most aggresive. Raphael.
The simplest weapon for the most creative. Donatello.
The most complex weapon for the most distracted. Mikey.
I disagree with the Leonardo description for one thing. Leo was given the only truly INSTANTLY lethal weapon not to give leo an edge, but to keep leo in check. The Katana defines Leo's flaws by FORCING him to control himself. Because he was balance of the others, he had the rage of Raph, the smarts of Donnie, and the childlike nature of Mike. To less degrees, and in order to maintain that balance, he had to learn how to control the use of his emotions to a point to be balanced.
This was….fascinating
Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching 😁
So basically if we gave the turtles weapons on their strength:
Leonardo: Sais
Raphael: Double Katana
Donatello: Nunchucks
Miachelangelo: Bo staff