Tang Dynasty Zhanmadao (Horse-Cleaving Saber) Cutting - LK Chen 陳立楷 唐代斬馬刀/陌刀
Test cutting using the Tang Dynasty Zhan Ma Dao (Horse-Cleaving Saber) made by LK Chen on a ballistic gelatin human thigh analog with bone analog and 22" (56 cm) circumference, which is larger, denser and more difficult than a quadrable tatami mat roll with a wooden dowel in the center.
Mo Dao or Zhan Ma Dao are a class of large two-handed swords used all the way from Han Dynasty to Song Dynasty. This variation is reproduced based on an archeological find in Sichuan, China. They were often used by champions or specialist units trained from recruits of impressive physiques. The name indicates the capability of cleaving even warhorses cleanly in half, and were often recorded to take out several opponents with one swing by the wielder in historical records such as the Six Classics of Tang, and the New Chronicles of Tang.