Chinese Sword Styles

[pawsplay]

I'm not suggesting a swordsmaster would neglect other skills. It just seems to me there is substantial evidence that single-handed sword use was taught and such a thing as a style logically existed for it. Talhoffer has a chapter on "messer" combat and substantial notes on various judicial duels. I am rather certain each form of judicial duel had a body of knowledge associated with that specific format.

I am also confident that although, by the rules, techniques do not default, virtually everything about the shortsword style in MA is applicable to civilian use of the broadsword as a form of defense.

Finally, although Broadsword skill in the GURPS skill may be practiced by masters of Tai Chi Chuan as well as masters of knightly combat, the best techniques must have come from experts with specific forms.

Tai Chi swordsmanship is an adaptation of a martial sword style, and there is no shield or second weapon present. Where did this style come from? Who would have practiced it? I can readily observe that the Tai Chi is based, as I said, on practical sword maneuvers.