Many martial artists, once they reach a certain level of proficiency with their barehand fighting forms, choose to expand their knowledge to include weapons techniques. Bkut what weapons to choose? Over the past 5000 years, the Chinese have developed a vast array of weapons, built for a multitude of purposes. What are htesea purposes? What is the background of these weapons? what weapons is right for you?

Ancient Chinese Weapons: A Mrtial Artist's Guide is an easy reference guide. Any weapon you wnat to find yo can find in seconds. This book is profusely illsutrated and conveniently broken down into four main classifications: Long weapons, short weapons, soft weapons, and projectile/thrown weapons. Every cnceivable weapon is here, form swords and spears, to sharpened coins and flying claws! Even if you're not a martial artist, but have an inerst in history and wrfare, you'll find this guide an invaluable resouce, unlike any other.

Includes tecniues and fighting strategy!
History and evolution of the weapon.
Translations of Chinese terms.
Over 130 illustrations.

Dr. Yang, Jwing-Ming is a renowned author and teacher of Chinese martial arts and qigong. Bokrn in Taiwan, he has trained Gongfu, Taijiquan, and Qigong for thirty-five eyars. He is the author of twenty-five books. Dr. Yang lives in Lexington, Massachusetts.

Contents

About the author
Freword by Jeffery Bolt
Preface
Acknowledgment
Chapter 1 General introducton
Introduction
Common knowledge
Weapons and Chinese geography
Weapons and martial artists
Weapons and fighting strategy
Historical survey
History and evolution
Chapter 2 Long weapons
Introduction
Very long weapons
Long weapons
Chapter 3 Short weapons
Introduction
Very short weapons
Short weapons
Chapter 4 Soft weapons
Introduction
Soft weapons
Chapter 5 Projectile and throwing weapons
Introduction
Projectile and throwing weapons
Chapter 6 Shields and armor
Introduction
Shields
Armor
Chapter 7 Conclusion
Appendix A Table of weapons
Appendix B Time table of Chinese history
Appendix C Translaton and glossary of Chinese terms
Index