Hole in the blade of Chinese dao

Neil · 17th January 2011, 10:59 PM

As pictured below I have seen a hole near the tip of the blade in many many 19th century Chinese dao. I have seen both colorful cloth attached there as well as metal rings like in the second photo. Not to mention metal rings with colorful cloth attached to them. Although predominantly it is just a naked hole. In the past I have read others say the hole was used as a place to attach one end of a sling or back strap to carry the sword when on the move. All of the above sound logical to me. What I am wondering is if any one owns, or has seen examples of the slings or sling pieces, or photographs of people actually using them. Any additional thoughts on the blade holes are welcome as well. Thanks

17th January 2011, 10:59 PM	#1
Neil Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Wisconsin Posts: 109	Hole in the blade of Chinese dao As pictured below I have seen a hole near the tip of the blade in many many 19th century Chinese dao. I have seen both colorful cloth attached there as well as metal rings like in the second photo. Not to mention metal rings with colorful cloth attached to them. Although predominantly it is just a naked hole. In the past I have read others say the hole was used as a place to attach one end of a sling or back strap to carry the sword when on the move. All of the above sound logical to me. What I am wondering is if any one owns, or has seen examples of the slings or sling pieces, or photographs of people actually using them. Any additional thoughts on the blade holes are welcome as well. Thanks Attached Images Last edited by Neil; 17th January 2011 at 11:27 PM.