Hook Swords

Hook Swords, or Shuānggōu (雙鈎), are Chinese dual weapons, that are both iconic and rare.

There are various claims about the origins of the Hook Swords, some reaching very far into history. However, thus far, all historical examples are from the Qing dynasty or later (1644-1911).

Hook Swords are seen across China in the North and South, and are used by various styles of Chinese Martial arts.

Most types of Hook Swords are around 1 meter in length, and curve into the hook shape fairly close to the tip. Historical versions of this weapon were  double edged, and very sharp. The classic design, also called the "Tiger Head Hook" or Hǔ Tóu Shuānggōu, (虎頭雙鈎) has a crescent-shaped blade as the hand guard, and a secondary blade below the grip.

Qing dynasty classic Hook Swords

Hook Swords use many complicated techniques, both offensive and defensive. The hook is used to grab onto an opponents limbs or a weapon, and either disarm, or occupy that weapon while simultaneously attacking with the other sword. Both he crescent-shaped guard  and the Spiky "pommel" blade can be used to attack at close range, making for fast reversals between defending and attacking. One of the most complex techniques is hooking both weapons together for a combined slashing strike with double the reach.

Variations of this weapon include the 9-Toothed Hook Swords, Deer Antler Hook Swords, and the Tree Hook Swords.

1.) 9-Toothed Hook Swords  2.) Deer Antler Hook Swords  3.) Tree Hook Swords