Dadao Sword Description
The Zhan Ma Dao, similar to the dadao sword, or Da Dao Sword, is a single handed Chinese saber, or broadsword, with a single edged blade used for chopping and slashing. This sword was specially used for horse chopping to bring down rival cavalry. Originally dating back to the Bronze Aged Shang Dynasty (1766-1122 B.C.E.), the dao gained fame during the Han Dynasty. Common dao blade designed typically come from the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 C.E.). The dao was the common weapon of the calvary during the early Han dynasty (206 B.C.E-220 C.E.) but it evolved into an infantry weapon, replacing the han jian. It ranged in size between 34”-45” and was used with a rectangular shield. Middle eastern and European sabers were influenced by the design of the dao since the Mongol invasion in the 13th century. This sword is a Zhan Ma Dao Sword. Currently the weapon is commonly used in martial arts and self-defense training due to its versatility.
Blade Materials
The longsword sword is made from pattern welded Damascus steel. Pattern welded Damascus steel is a hard heat treated, folded carbon steel. There are 11 pieces of steel, folded five times, making 352 layers. The steel is the perfect combination of hardness and durability with a Rockwell hardness rating between 55 and 56 HRC. High carbon Damascus steel must contain layers of high carbon steel. The high carbon steel we use is 1095 steel which is the highest content carbon steel used in swords. The combination of the steel layers creates a sword that is strong enough to hold a powerful edge while having the strength and flexibility to withstand powerful collisions. This makes the perfect steel for swords with a Rockwell Hardness of 55-56 HRC. The handle is wood with Damascus steel bolsters. It comes with a leather sheath, and has 352 layers.
Sword Details
Overall Length: 40"
Rockwell Hardness: 56-58 HRC
Number of layers: 352
Sheath: Steel and Wood
Blade Material: High Carbon Damascus Steel
6 Pieces of Carbon Steel #43 and #40
5 Pieces of High Carbon Steel 1095
1st Fold- 11x2=22 Layers
2nd Fold- 22*2=44 Layers
3rd Fold- 44*2=88 Layers
4th Fold- 88*2=176 Layers
5th Fold- 176*2=352 Layers
Zhan Ma Dao - High Carbon Damascus Steel - Da Dao Sword Horse Chopping Sword - 40"
