A form of halberd, the guan dao was a fierce medieval weapon said to have been created by the legendary warrior Guan Yu, whose own guan dao was known as the Green Dragon Crescent Blade. Now best known as the traditional weapon of the famous Shaolin monks, it is an ideal practice tool for those studying the martial arts. Measuring an impressive 48.5 inches (in two sections), the weapon is surprisingly light at just 3.3 pounds, making it easier to wield and maneuver around with. This is in accordance with contemporary practice; its purpose being more to disarm an opponent and deflect strikes rather than to attack. Constructed from high quality 3cr13 stainless steel, the blade is 19.25 inches long and comes very sharp out of the box with a distinctive etching of a prancing dragon on one side and the Great Wall on the reverse.A FREE black nylon snap fastened sheath is included.