Did the Chinese use spears?

Yes, the Chinese have a long history of using spears as weapons. Spears have been employed in Chinese warfare, martial arts, and hunting for thousands of years. Spears played a crucial role in Chinese military strategies, both in infantry formations and as weapons for cavalry units.Chinese spears, known as "Qiang," varied in design and length depending on their specific purpose and historical period. The length of Chinese spears typically ranged from 7 to 14 feet (2 to 4 meters), with variations for different types of combat and battlefield roles.Infantry soldiers commonly used spears in various formations to engage enemies at a distance. The length of the spear allowed for extended reach and was effective in keeping opponents at bay. Chinese infantry units often incorporated spears in combination with other weapons, such as swords, halberds, or shields, to create a versatile and balanced force on the battlefield.Cavalry units in ancient China also employed spears, both for thrusting attacks and as a means of warding off enemy cavalry charges. Spears with longer handles were favored by mounted warriors, providing them with increased reach while maintaining mobility on horseback.Spears were not only used for military purposes but also as hunting weapons and tools for everyday life. They were effective for hunting game, fishing, and general utility tasks.Chinese martial arts, such as Qiangshu or spear techniques, developed specialized training methods and techniques for mastering the use of spears. These techniques focused on precise thrusting, slashing, and blocking movements, honing the skills necessary for combat scenarios.The use of spears in Chinese history, warfare, and martial arts showcases their practicality, effectiveness, and cultural significance as versatile weapons.

How much does a Spartan spear weight?

The weight of a Spartan spear, also known as a "dory," can vary depending on the specific design, length, and materials used. However, historically, Spartan spears were typically lightweight and designed for ease of use in battle.A typical Spartan spear, which had a shaft made of ash wood and a leaf-shaped iron spearhead, would weigh around 2-3 pounds (0.9-1.4 kilograms). The length of a Spartan spear could range from around 6 to 9 feet (1.8 to 2.7 meters), allowing for effective thrusting attacks from a distance.The relatively light weight of the Spartan spear made it maneuverable and versatile in combat, allowing soldiers to wield it effectively with one hand or use it in conjunction with a shield. The design of the spearhead and the balanced distribution of weight along the shaft contributed to its ease of use and effectiveness on the battlefield.It's important to note that the specific weight of a Spartan spear may vary based on historical period, regional variations, or individual craftsmanship.

What does the two-part staff design mean for long-term storage?

A two-part staff assembly means the pole breaks down at a midpoint joint, reducing the overall storage length by roughly half. This is particularly practical for yari in the 80-plus-inch range, which would otherwise require purpose-built storage solutions. The joint is typically secured by a threaded collar, a friction-fit pin, or a combination of both, and when assembled correctly it creates no visible gap or misalignment. For long-term storage, wrapping each staff section in a soft cloth sleeve prevents surface scratching and keeps the finish in display-ready condition. The spearhead section should be stored with its protective wrapping intact and the Damascus surface lightly oiled before any extended period off-display.

How long is a full-scale display yari, and does size affect display options?

Updated Mar 2026

Collectible Damascus yari in this range run approximately 80 to 82 inches in overall length, which reflects proportions documented for historical Japanese battlefield spears. At that scale, floor-standing display is impractical without a dedicated vertical stand, so most collectors opt for horizontal wall mounting using padded bracket sets. Many pieces in this category are designed as two-part assemblies — the staff breaks down into two sections that thread or pin together — making transport and storage far easier without affecting the finished appearance. When mounted horizontally, a full-length yari of this size creates one of the most commanding visual statements available in Japanese pole-weapon collectibles.