What are the 2 Types of Chinese Swords?
Understanding the two primary types of Chinese swords, the jian and the dao, is crucial for anyone seeking to appreciate the rich history and cultural significance of Chinese weaponry. For millennia, these blades have transcended their practical purpose as instruments of war, becoming symbols of social status, artistic expression, and the evolution of Chinese martial arts traditions.
The Jian Sword
The jian, a double-edged straight sword, has played a significant role in Chinese history for over 2,500 years. Originating in the 7th century BCE during the Spring and Autumn period, it is exemplified by artifacts such as the Sword of Goujian. Known as “The Gentleman of Weapons” in Chinese folklore, the jian is one of the four major weapons alongside the staff, spear, and sabre.
Construction
One-handed versions typically range from 45 to 80 centimeters in blade length, with an average weight of 700 to 900 grams. Guard shapes vary, with hilt designs accommodating either one or both hands. The hilt’s pommel provides balance and can be used strategically in combat.
The jian’s blade, divided into three sections—jiànfeng, zhongren, and jiàngen—supports various offensive and defensive techniques. Blades typically exhibit subtle profile taper and distal taper, with differential sharpening towards the tip. Traditional construction involves sanmei (three plate) or wumei (five plate) methods, with materials ranging from bronze to steel.
Usage
While variations exist in length, balance, and weight across different periods, the jian remains a versatile cut and thrust weapon, excelling in stabbing, precise cuts, and slashes rather than specializing in one form. Terracotta warriors in Qin Shi Huang’s tomb wielded jian made from copper, tin, and elements like nickel and cobalt.
Historical users engaged in test cutting, known as shizhan, on targets like caoren (grass men) made from bamboo or rice straw. Today, tai chi and other martial arts practitioners continue extensive jian training, considering expertise in its techniques the pinnacle of their kung fu. Notable jian forms include Sancai Jian, Kunwu Jian, Wudang Xuanmen Jian, and taijijian.
The Dao Sword
The dao is a single-edged Chinese sword designed primarily for slashing and chopping. It can have a straight or curved blade, and the more common variant is often referred to as the Chinese sabre. Those with wider blades are occasionally called Chinese broadswords.
In China, the dao holds a significant position as one of the four traditional weapons, grouped with the gun (stick or staff), qiang (spear), and the jian (double-edged sword) in what is known as “The General of Weapons.
Construction
While dao sword designs have varied throughout the centuries, single-handed dao from the Ming period onward, and their modern counterparts, share certain features. The blades are moderately curved and single-edged, often with a few inches of the back edge sharpened for versatility, enabling effective thrusts.
Hilts may be canted, curving opposite to the blade, enhancing handling for various cuts and thrusts. The handle is typically wrapped with cord, and hilts may have piercings for lanyards, though modern performance swords often feature tassels or scarves.
Guards are commonly disc-shaped and cupped, designed to prevent rainwater and blood from reaching the handle, ensuring a secure grip. In some cases, guards may have a thinner, s-curve design to protect the user’s knuckles.
Usage
The dao, originating in China’s Shang Dynasty, was initially straight-backed knives, evolving into single-edged weapons used for slashing and chopping. During the Han dynasty, its sturdiness, chopping efficiency, and ease of use made it popular among cavalry, leading to its gradual adoption by infantry and replacing the jian.
Throughout dynasties like Sui, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing, influenced by Mongol sabers, the dao underwent modifications, giving rise to distinct types like yanmaodao, liuyedao, piandao, and niuweidao. These variations catered to specific combat needs, allowing for thrusting attacks, draw-cutting, and slashing.
Even during the Qing period, variations like nandao and the “nine ringed broadsword” emerged, although these were likely designed more for demonstrations and performances than practical combat. The term dao also encompassed polearms like pudao and guandao, featuring a single-edged blade.
Comparing the Jian and Dao Swords
| Jian Sword | Dao Sword | |
| Construction | Double-edged straight sword | Single-edged sword for slashing and chopping |
| Origin: 7th century BCE | Origin: Shang Dynasty (evolved over time) | |
| One-handed: 45 to 80 cm, 700-900g | Moderately curved blades with single edge | |
| Guard shapes vary, pommel for balance | Hilts may be canted, guards disc-shaped | |
| Blade divided into three sections | Handles wrapped with cord, some have piercings | |
| Traditional construction: sanmei or wumei | Guards designed to protect user’s knuckles | |
| Materials: Bronze to steel | ||
| Usage | Versatile cut and thrust weapon | Primarily for slashing and chopping |
| Emphasis on stabbing, precise cuts, slashes | Adopted by cavalry during Han for sturdiness | |
| Historical test cutting (shizhan) on targets | Evolved into distinct types (yanmaodao, etc) | |
| Tai chi and martial arts practice | Various modifications influenced by Mongol sabers | |
| Notable forms: Sancai Jian, Kunwu Jian, etc. | Used by infantry, cavalry, adapted into polearms | |
| Continued adaptations in Yuan, Ming, Qing | ||
| Used in various combat scenarios |
Conclusion
Between the jian and the dao, I find myself more inclined towards the jian. My interest in martial arts, particularly tai chi, has given me some experience with the jian. The sword’s balance and the smoothness of its movements fit well with the flowing forms of tai chi, making practice both calming and precise. The double-edged design of the jian allows for versatile use, including thrusts, cuts, and slashes, which feels intuitive and controlled.
The historical and cultural significance of the jian also appeals to me. It has long been associated with nobility and scholarly pursuit in Chinese culture. The craftsmanship involved in traditional jians, with techniques like sanmei or wumei, adds an artistic element that I find fascinating.
While the dao is known for its practicality and effectiveness in slashing and chopping, which made it popular among cavalry and infantry, it doesn’t resonate with me as much. The dao’s robust design and straightforward nature are impressive, especially considering its historical adaptations for various combat needs.
However, my preference leans towards the jian because its balance and precision align more closely with the style of martial arts I enjoy. The jian’s design and use in tai chi provide a harmonious and controlled experience that I appreciate.