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Another important factor for a wooden sparring sword is an authentic weight. A good sword needs to have sufficient weight to make it fast but not so much that it becomes hard to control. 650g - 850g is a reasonable range for a jian, and these sparring jian are usually between 600g and 900g depending on the density of the wood. Hickory swords are generally heavier than oak. The design of this jian fully conforms to the regulations for sparring swords, as set down by the TCSL :
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Current prices for plain wooden jian (excluding shipping) :
· Oak sparring grade jian………………..…..….. £66.50 · Hickory sparring grade jian…………..…...…. £79.50 |
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Tiger’s Den Chinese swords |
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Sparring grade jian |
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These sparring jian took nearly two years of research and development. This unique design, combines historical authenticity with all the practical features needed for full contact swordplay.
The hilt fittings are in the traditional ‘Cloud-head’ style. A style which was very popular during the latter part of the Qing dynasty.
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Part-made oak jian, standing in the workshop |
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The hilt is really the interface between the swordsman and the sword and a good shaped grip is absolutely vital for fast manoeuvrability and the transmission of power to the blade. The dimensions of this grip were taken directly from an antique jian in the collection of Scott M. Rodell. It is slim enough to be comfortable for small hands whilst still being equally responsive for larger hands. |
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Hickory jian with traditional grip wrap |
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Tiger’s den jian have a wooden grip as standard but they are also offered with the option of a traditional wrap. The cord used, is an authentic flat-woven cotton and is available in black, blue and brown. These colours were favoured in the Qing dynasty and so are found on grip wraps of antique jian of this style. The smooth and rounded front edge of the guard, is designed to deflect the opponents blade away from the hand. Also, the ’point’ of the guard projects a full 10mm to the side in order to ‘catch’ and deflect the opponents blade. |
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Authentic balance and handling are elements that are essential to any good sword and in the Tiger’s Den jian, these are achieved by using a system of strategically placed metal balance weights. Essentially, this feature is what really ‘brings the sword to life’, transforming it from a dull wooden stick into a powerful and responsive fighting Jian. |
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The tip of the blade is fully rounded, making it safer for sparring and for partner work, and the blade is 22mm thick. This thickness gives a good weight to the blade and also an ideal compromise between the width of the edge and the rounding of the edge needed for safety. As with modern jian, the blade comes in the standard length of 760mm (30”), but can be customised to suit individual swordsman. The fuller is not just for decoration but, as in a real sword, it there because it has a positive effect on the handling characteristics. |
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Blade tip |
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Pommel with Warring States period decoration. The grip is recessed ready for covering with a traditional wrap. |
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If you would like to order or would just like more information, then please contact: |
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[Extras include: grip wraps, lanyards and decorations —more info coming soon……..] |
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Copyright © 2009 Graham Cave. All rights reserved. |
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