Chang Dao sword, Imperial Guard Ming Dynasty- Forge LK Chen

Chang Dao sword, Imperial Guard Ming Dynasty - Forge LK Chen

This sword is inspired by the Chang Dao of the Imperial Guard, a two-handed sword used by imperial guards. LK Chen's version is based on a rare old model, offering an optimal blade-to-handle ratio for powerful leverage and robust techniques.

Thanks to its perfect balance, the Imperial Guard Chang Dao is handy and lively in the hand.

The Ming Dynasty

The Ming Dynasty, which reigned from 1368 to 1644, was the last Chinese dynasty ruled by the Han. It succeeded the Mongol Yuan and ended with the capture of Beijing in 1644 during Li Zicheng's rebellion, although the Southern Ming resisted until 1662 before being defeated by the Qing.

During this period, Sino-Japanese trade included the import of swords under contract. Alongside coastal conflicts against the Wokou (Japanese pirates), Japanese swords influenced Chinese weaponry, notably the Chang Dao (or Dan Dao), a Chinese adaptation of Japanese long swords.

A prestigious sword (明御林軍長刀)

During the Ming dynasty, a flourishing trade existed between China and Japan, including the import of swords under contract. Alongside conflicts against Wokou (Japanese pirates) along the coastal provinces, Japanese swords strongly influenced Chinese military weaponry. The Chang Dao (Long Saber), also known as the Dan Dao (Simple Saber), was the Chinese adaptation of Japanese long swords.

LK Chen, an exceptional forge

LK Chen products are handcrafted by artisans at the forge's workshop in Longquan, China. Each sword, inspired by ancient weapons, features a unique geometry reflecting the techniques and requirements of its era. This uniqueness is an asset, testifying to dedicated craftsmanship.

Product technical specifications:

• Blade length: approx. 107.5 cm (or 42.32")
• Handle length: approx. 55 cm (or 21.65")
• Total length: approx. 162.5 cm (64.02")
• Blade thickness: 8.3 mm (at base) // 3.5 mm (near tip)
• Blade width: 40 mm (at base) // 26 mm (near tip)
• Balance point (from handle): approx. 11 cm (or 4.3")
• Sword weight: approx. 2 kg (or 4 lb 6.55 oz)

Other features:

• Metal open handguard, "Iron Dragon" motif
• Sheath made from furniture-grade Jichimu (Ormosia type) and blackened brass fittings.
• Handle covered with red cotton cord
• Pommel secured by hammering
• Iron grip rim and pommel
• Sheath fittings - Blackened brass
• Recreation 1:1 of a Ming dynasty specimen.
• Good to know: During the Ming and Qing dynasties, the Dao military used iron as a hand protection material, instead of brass, a softer metal.

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