Jian

Hardwood jian (Mandarin) or gim (Cantonese) are used by practitioners of many Chinese Gung Fu (Kung Fu) styles such as Tai Chi Chuan (Taiji Quan) and Ba Gua Zhang. Raven Studios training jian are designed to withstand the rigors of partner training and are also well suited for forms and solo technique practice. I feel it is important that each training sword mimic a real swords performance and feel as closely as possible, therefore these hardwood practice swords are constructed with the following qualities:

• Patterned after real swords. I strive to maintain historical accuracy.
• Sword blades are made from Hickory.
• The blades have a diamond shaped cross section for strength, balance, and performance, and the edges are rounded for durability.
• The blades are made with a ricasso for added strength.
• The hilt is made from your choice of Hickory, Jatoba, or Purple Heart.
• The guards are locked into the blades and can not slide or loosen.
• The blades have a full tang and the handles are constructed with laminated hardwood slabs.
• The handle is oval shaped for comfort, blade orientation, and control of the sword.
• You can choose either a pointed or a rounded blade tip.  Blades made with a pointed tip are suitable for forms and solo technique training. Blades made with a rounded tip are more robust and provide added safety for partner training. (Wearing eye protection is ALWAYS recommended during partner training)
• Finished with a linseed and tung oil blend which penetrates into the wood to create a tough and durable surface.

Custom Training Swords
If you would like one of the standard swords (seen below) with your own special specifications, or you’d like a training weapon not found on this website, supply a written description with a photo or drawing and I’ll let you know if it’s something I can make for you. Please contact me at carinac@little-raven.com for a price quote and timeline.  (No fantasy or cartoon sword requests please. R.S. wasters are not toys, they are designed for serious martial arts training.)