Training in the use of a jian, the Chinese straight sword, is a fascinating and disciplined martial practice. Jianfa, the methodology of this straight sword, has been part of Chinese culture for two millennia.
Mastery of jianfa was sought as way to achieve a deep and direct understanding of tactics.
The jian have been in constant use for the last 2,500 years in China. The first Chinese sources mentioning jianfa date to the 7th century BCE, during the Spring and Autumn period. And one of the earliest period examples is the Sword of Goujian.
Historical one-handed versions have blades varying from 45 to 80 centimeters (18 to 31 inches) in length. The weight of an average sword of 70-centimeters (28-inch) blade-length would be in a range of approximately 700 to 900 grams (1.5 to 2 pounds).
There are also larger two-handed versions used for training by many styles of Chinese martial arts. These long two-handed jian saw a resurgence in their use during the late Ming dynasty when the predominately infantry army had to face their mounted Mongol and later, Manchu foes.
Dedicated jian wielding practitioners are referred to as jianke (Chinese: 劍客; pinyin: jiànkè; lit. 'sword guests' or "swordsmen"; a term dating from the Han dynasty). Ke, literally means politeness and implies a sense of refinement attained through practice.
