Chang Dao Broadsword, Ming crossbowmen - Forge LK Chen

LK Chen Forge:

This sword was forged by LK Chen, a forge specializing in the reproduction of ancient Chinese weapons with respect for dimensions, weight, balance and authentic handling.

All LK Chen weapons are designed for cutting work.

Ming Crossbowmen's broadsword 明弩手帶刀:

Under the Ming and Qing dynasties, military Dao use iron instead of brass, a softer metal, as hand protection material.

The crossbowmen's dao was the standard sidearm of Ming crossbowmen units, carried by a strap below the belt. The dao's length was designed not to interfere with the crossbow, which was also carried on a shoulder strap.

The crossbowmen's dao was a practical, versatile weapon, primarily intended for two-handed use, but could also be carried one-handed.

Blade characteristic :

• Steel blade
• Blade composition: 1060 carbon steel (high carbon content) + T8 tungsten-vanadium high-speed tool steel (anti-rust property)
• Blade length: approx. 86.0 cm (33.89")
• Total sword length: approx. 120 cm (47.24")
• Handle length: approx. 34 cm (13.39")
• Scabbard weight only: approx. 650g
• Weight of sword alone: approx. 1500 g (3 lb. 4.9 oz)
• Blade profile: triangular, curved blade, cutting edge on lower edge
• Sharpened blade with taper:
• Guard width: 35.0 mm / Thickness: 9.0 mm
• Width at tip: 24.0 mm / Thickness: 3.5 mm
• Balance point: approx. 10 cm (3.94") from the hilt

Composition:

• Carbon 0.75-0.84
• Silicon <=0.35
• Manganese <=0.40
• Phosphorus <=0.035
• Sulfur <=0.030
• Tungsten <= 0.30
• Vanadium <= 0.02
• Chromium <=0.25
• Nickel <=0.20
• Copper <=0.25
• Molybdenum <= 0.20

Scabbard :

• Quality "Jichimu" (Ormosia genus) wood scabbard, covered with brown "vegan" leather and blackened brass fittings.

Heat treatment:

• Superior heat treatment: Hardness 54-55 HRC. Spring hardening and oil quenching.

Ornamentation:

• The hilt is finely decorated with an abstract iron dragon motif. The handle is peeled and wrapped in orange cord.
• 1:1 replica of a Ming dynasty specimen.
• Perfecting the fit and finish of their swords and assembly is meticulously carried out by their experienced master craftsmen.

It takes a craftsman a full day to assemble these swords.
Give this handcrafted marvel the attention it deserves, and enjoy your new jewel!