Guandao
The guandao is a Chinese pole weapon akin to that of a glaive or halberd that consists of a heavy, curved blade attached to the top of a staff. The heaviest versions of this weapon demand considerable strength from its wielder to utilize effectively.
History
During the Ming dynasty, certain soldiers of the imperial Chinese military were trained in the art of the guandao. The sheer weight of the glaive did not hinder the combat capabilities of these poleaxe guards, who were adept at launching swift strikes with the heavy weapon.[1]
The guandao was the favored weapon of Liu Qing, a Chinese Assassin active in the early 18th century. The weapon complemented his large size and stength, as he was able to easily overpower a number of well-trained Shimazu clan ninja,[2] as well as the Templar Shimazu Saito, whose sword he broke in half.[3]
Trivia
- In Chinese, the Guandao is properly called the yǎnyuèdāo (偃月刀, lit. "reclining moon blade") or crescent blade. Its popular name of guāndāo (關刀, lit. "Guān-blade") is derived from the name of the legendary Shǔ general of the Three Kingdoms period Guān Yǔ. The iconic weapon of Guān Yǔ was a yǎnyuèdāo named Green Dragon Crescent Blade (青龍偃月刀, Qīnglóng yǎnyuèdāo).
Appearances
- Assassin's Creed Chronicles: China (first appearance)
- Assassin's Creed: Forgotten Temple