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You may have heard of the Song Dynasty Zhanmadao (“horse chopping saber“), but probably not of its counterpart from the rival Liao Empire. This is a closer look at (and cutting tests with) two historical replicas from LK Chen, with my opinion on the handling, fit & finish, material quality, and practical performance. These are quite unique swords, remarkably large and fitted with exceptionally long handles (somewhat reminiscent of a nagamaki). They are basically bordering on polearm territory, with imposing, powerful blades. It's easy to see why these were used as anti-cavalry weapons by infantry troops on the battlefield. I'm definitely happy with this kind of quality for reproductions in the $350-450 USD range. *** Specifications *** - Song Zhan Ma Dao - Overall length: 138 cm (54'') Blade length: 83.8 cm (33'') Blade thickness: 10.5 mm (7/16'') near guard, tapering to 4mm (3/16'') near the tip Weight: kg (5 lbs 9 oz) Blade material: GB 60Si2MnA spring steel, heat treated and tempered to HRC 56-58 - Liao Dao - Overall length: 127 cm (50'') Blade length: 74.5 cm (29-1/3'') Blade thickness: 9 mm (3/8'') near guard, tapering to (1/8'') Weight: kg (5 lbs) Blade material: Same as above *** Where to get them *** *** Similar reviews and other relevant videos *** The Roaring Dragon & Striking Eagle by LK Chen The Magnificent Chu Jian and Flying Phoenix by LK Chen The White Arc by LK Chen Nice & Tough, But Has Issues... (Yomikuni Sword Review) An Outsider's Interpretation of Chinese Hook Swords *** Credits *** “Highland Storm“ by The Slanted Room Records Used with artist's permission “Qara Khitai“ by Ethically Challenged *** Merch *** If you want to join Bonfire to start selling your own merch: *** Support the channel *** Help fund future videos, get bonus content and access to an exclusive Discord server: Other ways to support the channel by shopping through affiliate links: Kult of Athena, my favorite online store for reproductions of historical arms and armor, fantasy swords, etc: Where to get HEMA gear and practice swords: Want to treat your face fluff? I highly recommend the balms and oils from Beard Sorcery: Books about history, martial arts, swords, knives, video/audio equipment, and other stuff I recommend: US - Canada - *** Social media *** #skallagrim #sword #review
