I will have to laugh at "wushu" weapons as well. Personally I have not performed in a weapon competition, were I to do so though, I dont think I would feel right using a spring steel light weight prop. I would have to use a live blade or not compete at all. If i were not ready to use a live blade, then I would not be ready for competition.

I practice japanese fencing by myself. I own a katana and have for years, if I am not using a wooden sword then I use my steel. One day someone said their new wushu dao was too heavy

I just had to laugh....