Chinese Gim Is Most Like the European What?

[Humble Disciple]

Hello all,

I was recently trying to classify the Chinese Gim / Jian / Straight Sword and so started to wonder what European sword it was probably most like.

I think I am probably more interested in application or intended use and tactics rather than shape or form, however, I imagine these are probably more interrelated than not. After all form has a tendency to follow function.

Some of my initial thoughts are as follows:

I think the gim was probably not like the rapier as this seems to have been a strictly thrusting sword (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rapier). the Rapier also seems to be a bit lighter and more maneuverable if less versatile.

After a little further research I am leaning towards the gim being most like the European Side Swords (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Side-sword).

In any case I was interested in throwing this out there and seeing what everyone's thoughts were.

[SteveLau]

Humble Disciple,

Like the swords in other parts of the world, Chinese swords have evolved in various shapes through time . According to the info you provided on the rapier and European side sword, I agree with your idea of the gim. It has never been like the rapier in any time. And with regards to double edged sword, I like the gim of the Qing Dynasty best. It is also very much like the European side sword you have mentioned. They are both war swords.


Regards,

KC
Hong Kong

[David Jamieson]

...most like an arming sword or knights sword. as far as euro blades go.
it's a dual edge straight bladed sword. Which is also referred to as a side sword as Steve Lau just mentioned.

[GreenCloudCLF]

Most like shiny tin foil wrapped around a thin stick.

[David Jamieson]

Most like shiny tin foil wrapped around a thin stick.

You need to get a better sword...lol

[GreenCloudCLF]

You need to get a better sword...lol

That actually is my gim :(