Dadao (sword)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The dadao (Chinese: 大刀; pinyin: dàdāo; lit. 'large knife/sabre') was a type of Chinese saber (dao) of the late Qing dynasty which remained in use as a civilian and military sword through the end of World War II.[1] The term refers to a whole family of swords, which can vary in blade, guard, and grip configurations. Common elements include a grip long enough to accommodate 2 hands, but with a relatively short and wide blade. Ring pommels are very common, but not exclusively used at the end of the grip. Blade profiles often flare towards the foible and may have a clipped tip.
The term dadao has been in use since at least the Ming dynasty, where it was originally used to refer to large polearm mounted sabres.[2] Although similar short and wide bladed dao are seen in Ming era artwork, the form of sword known today as dadao dating to the late Qing and the early 19th century. The term Kan Dao (砍刀, lit. Chopping knife) was also used to refer to these heavy bladed dao.[3]
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