by Steve James on Tue Feb 12, 2019 2:30 pm
Yes, context is everything. And, the most likely context in civilian life is empty-hand. Weapons training, if it does not improve empty hand use, is not much use. Some FMA teachers start beginners with blades and work toward empty hand application. Blade work, especially with sharp weapons, demands more precision and coordination. A stick is not a knife is not a jian is not a spear, but a hand/arm can be applied like any of those weapons.
Afa a jian against an armored opponent, I think it'd be a nightmare. The weight is behind the hand so "chopping" isn't as strong and has to be done close to the hilt to be effective. Well, I've been taught that jian use depends on accuracy, and the assumption is that one can't simply cut through just anything. I.e., targeting was the crucial skill (as in slicing exposed arteries, tendons, ligaments, nerve centers). It might seem impractical, but is fairly clear from most forms. I mean impractical from the pov of necessity. I.e., people who used jians didn't look like they were doing forms. (Imho, of course).
I think if jians were primarily a stabbing weapon, they'd be stiffer. The oldest ones probably are. Modern (post firearm) jians are lighter and more ceremonial. Though, if you're a minor official without bodyguards, it was a great weapon for personal defense --even if one didn't know a single form.
"A man is rich when he has time and freewill. How he chooses to invest both will determine the return on his investment."