Fighting Strategy for Saber and Sword in Chinese Martial Arts

Although the saber is the root of the short weapons, its techniques and power applications are very different from those of the sword. For example, the saber uses muscle power. The blunt edge of the saber is designed for blocking vigorously, but this action cannot be done with the Jian. Since the sword is double-edged, using either edge to block will dull the blade. With the sword only the third of the blade nearest the hilt is designed for vigorous blocking. The sharpened part of the blade should not be allowed to contact the opponent’s weapon. Therefore, a defensive attack without blocking is the best sword technique, and a sliding block followed by an attack is the second best. The least desirable defense is to block using the blunt area of the blade.

The fighting strategy is also different between saber and sword. The saber fighter will try to keep the enemy in the short and middle range in order to take advantage of the saber’s vigorous blocking and attacking power. To do this the saber fighter always uses two hands together. One hand holds the saber while the other is used for coordination and balance or to grasp the enemy’s wrist, arm, or weapon. The Jian fighter, however, tries to keep the enemy in the middle or long range in order to be able to use the razor sharp tip of the sword effectively. In addition, by keeping some distance from the opponent it is easier to avoid violent attacks. Click to learn how Chinese medicine treats Secondary Infertility.

For applying power the saber relies on muscle power, while the Jian uses muscle and internal power (Qi) together in order to defend against a heavy weapon or a strong attack. Because of the more refined power needed, the sword needs more technique, more skill, and more training time.

Even though there are so many differences between the saber and the sword, the saber is still the foundation of sword practice. It builds up the stances, dodging, and the basic forward and backward movements. It also builds the muscles required for sword practice. Most important of all, practicing the saber will help the student to understand in general the application and the fighting strategy of short weapons.