The Shaolin Broadsword is considered the “Commander Of Weapons” and comes in a variety of sizes and shapes. The Chinese sword is referred to as a Dao. Its translation in English is Saber or Wide Blade Sword and referred to as a Broadsword. Usually, the Dao is more than 1 1/2 inches wide. Broadswords are used by both Northern and Southern stylists. Many different types of broadswords fall into this category to name a few:

• Willow Leaf Sword (Lieu Yeh Dao)
• Executioners Sword (Pok Dao)
• Ghost head Sword (Guai Taou Dao)
• Large Chopping Sword (Da Kan Dao)
• The broadsword in construction has the following components:
• The Blade
• Tip
• Back edge which is dull
• Blade edge which is sharp on the first third to two thirds
• Blood groove which allows the weapon to be withdrawn from the opponent after being thrust into the body
• The flat edge used to block an opponents weapon
• The Guard protects the hand from other weapons during its’ use
• The Handle
• The grip or handle where you hold the sword
• The pummel at the end of the handle