Anybody have any info on the 9 Ring chinese broad sword? Not really sure of the true name of the particular sword. I would like to know the purpose of the rings attached to the back of the blade of the sword. Apparently there is also a spear version known if I recall correctly the "guan dao" or "kwan dao", a 9 ring spear.

There isn't much information on the web or even from website of kung fu schools as far as usage other than simple aesthetics. As far as I can gather the rings were used to help trap an opponents sword when blocking, or at the very least help prevent the attacking sword from sliding along the back during a parry or block.

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any ideas?

This isn't my area of expertise, but I'm fairly certain that these were never used on swords before more modern times. They are used to make noise and to attach fabric onto them for performance arts, not for combat. I've never seen an antique Chinese sword that had them.

Ah, that's interesting to hear. I would not have guessed as information regarding these kinds of weapons is literally non-existant.

Makes some sense as well since the benefit of the rings is not immediately apparent. Any kung fu practitioners out there with some insight?