Long
back there was a time when the sword was considered as the king of the
battlefield. The sword represents power, strength and dignity, in some cultures
it is also a symbol of nobility and leadership. Chinese people used to call
their swords and other weapons as Dao and these weapons were also a part of
four of the major weapon groups in the renowned martial arts. During that time
there were different designs popular, but in recent times, swords with sharp
curved edge and hilt opposing the blade is frequently seen. It took centuries to evolve this unique
design.
As
mentioned in most of the history books, and it is a belief of most of the
nations, that swords first appeared in the Chinese Bronze Age, but the fact is
it was not the very finest material to work with. In 476BC when the Era of
Warring States started that time many changes were seen in China. This era
lasted for almost 200 years. Changes like cavalry replaced chariots, frequent
use of crossbows and use of iron for making different types of weapons and armours.
Among
these weapons, dagger-axe was the most popular one, the size of these Chinese
martial arts weapons ranging from 9 to 12 feet in length and this enabled soldiers
to form a strong wall of spears. Another very popular weapon was paid, this
weapon was like a broadsword with a long handle which helped soldiers have a
very good grip. In addition, with the weapons some new books on tactics were
written, among the famous books includes Sun Tzu's The Art of War, which is still
very popular today.
With
the change in time, warriors started developing Chinese martial arts weapons
using different metals and designs. Different designs were created to fight in different
situations. Spear and swords are the most popular weapons among Chinese
soldiers. Riders on the steppers were known for the use of the bow and they
were also experts with the saber and lance.
Chinese
martial arts weapons of WKC Martial Arts Supplies
have improved with time. Different variations and amendments have been
incorporated in the basic weapon design. Weapons are not only used for
attacking others, instead they are also specifically designed for self-defense.
This is the reason why some schools also teach weapons for self-defense. Use of
swords teaches us the fundamental of personal combat also how to face and fight
different combat situations. This is the history of the popular Chinese weapons.
Blog Source: http://wkcmartialarts.blog.com/2014/12/17/evolution-of-chinese-martial-arts-weapons/
