Dual Weapons Continued: Ring Weapons

Ring weapons are an uncommon type of paired weapon in China, and not many styles use them (mainly Tai Chi and Bagua). It is rumored that these weapons were originally brought to China by the Mongols, who would throw them from horseback. I think it is also likely that they have some distant connection to the Chakram, another throwing weapon used in Indian martial arts, as well as historically by Sikh warriors from the Punjab region of India.

Chakram

Ring Weapons in Chinese martial arts are used for both throwing and melee combat. There are several variations, but they mostly consist of a circular band, or ring that has been sharpened on the outside edge. Most have a short, unsharpened section that is wrapped with cloth, leather, or other material, thus forming the handle, or grip.

Heaven and Earth Rings

The two most common types are Wind and Fire Wheels (風火輪), which have flame shaped spikes along the outside edge, and Heaven and Earth Rings (乾坤圈) which have a crescent bladed hand guard. These extra appendages generally help in the weapons ability to block or trap an opponent's weapon as well as hook and stab.

Wind and Fire Wheel

The rings are generally around fourteen inches in diameter and weigh between one and two pounds for each ring.

While it's doubtful that these were ever true battlefield weapons, they nevertheless were derived from actual battlefield weapons and keep at least some of their original aspects.

Next week's post will be about Bagua's Deer Horn Knives.