Quan Dao: Origin and Techniques

The kwan dao, also known as a quan dao, is an ancient Chinese weapon that is said to date from the third century. Kwan dao simply means big knife, but in Chinese, this weapon is called a yan yue dao, or reclining moon blade. It is used in a variety of kung fu styles, such as hung gar.
Description
The kwan dao is a type of pole weapon that is 5 to 6 feet in length. At the end of this wooden or metal pole is a long curving blade. The blade tapers into a sharp point and the backside has a hook toward the base. Between the hook and tip are sharp saw-like teeth. The weapon can weigh between 5 and 40 pounds.
Origin
The weapon is said to have been created in the third century by General Kwan Yu, a legendary Chinese hero. The general was well known for his size and strength and required a weapon that could take advantage of that. The original kwan dao is said to have weighed between 100 and 200 pounds. Some say the story of the kwan dao's origin is only a legend and that the weapon was not actually in use until later, while others say its early use simply wasn't as widespread.
History
The kwan dao was made to be equally effective on horseback or foot. However, because it was relatively expensive compared to the qiang, or spear, it was believed to be used only by officers. Due to the kwan dao's great size, it was also impractical without sufficient space to wield it. Despite its restriction to officers, during the Qing dynasty, military candidates were required to perform with extremely heavy versions of the kwan dao to pass their exams. Use of the weapon is still taught in some kung fu schools.
Method of Use
Because of the intricate design of the weapon, it can be used in a variety of ways. The blade itself is effective for slicing and chopping. The pointed end can be used for thrusting and stabbing. The hook on the back of the blade can be used to trap the opposing weapon. There frequently is a red tassel attached at the end of the hook that can be used to distract an opponent. Because it is a pole weapon, it also lends itself to sweeping movements.