Cold weapons, also known as edged weapons, refer to close combat weaponry that does not utilize gunpowder, explosives, or other incendiary materials to directly inflict harm on enemies while defending oneself. Throughout human history, cold weapons played a pivotal role in warfare and also served as significant carriers of cultural heritage. In various regions, among different ethnic groups, and across various epochs, distinctive cold weapons emerged, combining functionality as tools for inflicting harm with their status as artistic masterpieces. So, who makes it to the global top ten list of cold weapons, and which Chinese cold weapon has earned a place among them?

Tenth place belongs to the Japanese Tachi. During Japan's Warring States period, many exceptional swordsmen, such as Miyamoto Musashi and Ito Ittosai, rose to prominence and were revered as "swordmasters" or "kenshi." They wielded a weapon known as the Japanese Tachi, which evolved from the Chinese Tang Dao. In Japan, there's a saying that goes, "A treasured sword must be tested on a living body." While this may sound somewhat grim, there's no denying the formidable power possessed by the Japanese Tachi.

The Japanese Tachi features a distinctive appearance, characterized by its long, straight, single-edged blade with a slight curve and a subtly inclined tip. This shape excels in combat, especially suited for delivering precise, lethal strikes. The techniques associated with the Japanese Tachi are agile and swift, emphasizing precise movements, making it appear nimble and difficult to defend against in battle. Tachi swords are known for their significant curvature, with blade lengths typically exceeding 3 shaku (approximately 1 meter) but not reaching 5 shaku (approximately 1.5 meters), as seen in smaller Tachi variants.

The name of this type of sword may have its origins in the Japanese word for "cutting," and there is also a theory that connects it to the pronunciation of "たち" (tachi). Although the Tachi bears some similarities in its shape to the Chinese Tang Dao, archaeological evidence and historical artifacts suggest a closer connection to the Han Dynasty Huan Shou Dao.

Compared to the well-known Samurai Katana, the most significant difference in the Tachi lies in its greater length, making it more suitable for battlefield use and fostering its rapid development as a weapon for mounted warriors. When wielding a Tachi, a samurai needed to hold the sword firmly, leaving no gaps. The ring and pinky fingers tightly gripped the hilt, while the thumb and index finger lightly held it, and the middle finger rested steadily on the hilt.When delivering strikes, the hands must remain steady and firm, with movements executed swiftly and decisively, focusing on a single objective: defeating the opponent. The swinging of the Tachi demands a consistent grip, free from wavering or hesitation. Tachi techniques call for extended arm movements followed by a powerful strike.

In terms of cultural dissemination abroad, the Tachi has performed admirably, and it commands a high price in the international market. Some renowned Tachi swords can fetch prices in the range of several hundred thousand dollars. Due to the fame of the Tachi worldwide, it earns its place among the top ten cold weapons, albeit towards the end of the list.

Ninth place belongs to the Aztec Obsidian Greatsword. The Obsidian Greatsword is a unique weapon of the Aztec people.

During the height of the Aztec civilization, the Aztecs revered the jaguar, and their most elite warriors were known as Jaguar Warriors. These brave warriors wielded a distinctive weapon known as the Obsidian Greatsword, which resembled a giant double-edged blade. Crafted from sharp obsidian, this enormous sword possessed formidable killing power.

The unique Obsidian Greatsword had a length of around one meter, featuring a double edge. Due to the relatively limited ironworking technology of the Aztec civilization, they turned to obsidian as a material for crafting weapons. However, this specially crafted greatsword possessed immense killing power when swung, and its blade's sharpness could rival that of iron weaponry.

During the wars of the Spanish conquest of the Americas, this ancient weapon, with its unique sharpness and deadly striking power, struck fear into the hearts of the Spanish conquistadors. The Spanish even referred to it as "as sharp as a razor" and held it in great dread.

Eighth place goes to the Malay Kris Sword from the Malay Archipelago. The Malay Kris Sword, often referred to as the Malay Kris, may not be a household name for many, but it boasts a long and mysterious history. It was once popular in regions such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, southern Thailand, and the southern Philippines, representing the rich heritage of Malay culture.

The Kris sword has a distinctive appearance, slightly shorter than the Jian or "Golden Snake Sword," yet it is exceptionally sturdy. The material used in crafting the Malay Kris is quite special, typically made from pure meteorite iron. The forging process is exceptionally precise, involving hundreds of heating cycles to create a powerful and exquisite sword.

The name of the sword "Kris" may have its origins in the ancient Javanese word "ngiris." Its hilt symbolizes a ship's captain, the guard represents a vessel, and the wave-like shape of the blade represents the adventurous spirit of riding the waves. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has recognized the Indonesian Malay Kris as a part of the world's intangible cultural heritage. However, the history of this short sword dates back even further, with roots tracing back to the 14th century.

Crafting the perfect Malay Kris sword is a time-consuming process, taking over a year, and it requires meticulous attention to the blade, hilt, and scabbard to create a flawless short sword. The hilt is often made from precious materials like rare woods, animal bones, ivory, gold, silver, and adorned with gemstones for decoration. This has elevated the Malay Kris beyond being just a weapon; it has become a symbol of status for nobility, royalty, and merchants, representing not only a weapon but also a cultural belief and a symbol of power.

Seventh place is occupied by the Nepalese Khukuri, also known as the Kukri. It is a traditional Nepalese curved knife with a unique shape and history.

The most distinctive feature of the Khukuri is its curved blade, often with a notch or indentation along the edge.

The unique shape of the Khukuri allows it to function both as a chopping tool and a stabbing weapon when in use. Its curved design aids in reducing impact and provides superior cutting power. Khukuris are typically very sharp, making them versatile tools in Nepal, used for various purposes including agriculture, hunting, and military applications. In a broader sense, the Khukuri is seen as a symbol representing the courage and honor of Nepal.

It is also widely used within the Nepalese military and is considered one of the iconic weapons of the Gurkhas, the soldiers of the Nepalese Army. Nepalese Army personnel typically carry the Khukuri as a sign of respect and loyalty.

Internationally, the Khukuri is highly regarded for its unique design and historical significance, making it a cherished and prized item among collectors and enthusiasts.

The craftsmanship of the Khukuri is typically very intricate, with the blade often made from high-carbon steel, while the handle can be crafted from various materials, including bone, wood, and ivory. In summary, the Nepalese Khukuri is both a symbol of Nepalese culture and a powerful functional weapon.

Sixth place goes to the American Bowie Knife, named after the American frontier hero Jim Bowie. The Bowie Knife originated in the 1830s and gained its name from Jim Bowie's notable feats. Jim Bowie became legendary for his heroic actions in a land dispute battle in 1827, where he successfully defended himself against three adversaries while wielding the Bowie Knife.

The Bowie Knife, originally designed as a combat knife, boasts exceptional combat capabilities and aggressiveness. Today, its applications have expanded significantly. It has found use as a standard issue knife in modern military contexts, such as the United States Air Force Survival Knife, the M9 bayonet, and the Ka-Bar knife, among others. These knives not only possess the combat and cutting power of the Bowie Knife but are also versatile for tasks like cutting and opening containers. They are widely utilized by the United States military and special forces.

The Bowie Knife features a clip-point design for its blade, with a narrow and fine tip that is well-suited for both quick thrusting and precise work. The blade is typically broad and robust, making it durable for tasks such as digging, prying, cutting, and chopping. All in all, the American Bowie Knife is not just a potent weapon but also a traditional cultural heritage.

Fifth place is claimed by the Roman Short Sword. During the era of cold weapons, the choice of weaponry played a crucial role in determining a military's combat style. In ancient China, long weapons like spears, pikes, and long swords were widely used on the battlefield due to their advantages in attack range and power. However, the Roman Empire took a different path, primarily favoring the short sword. Of course, behind this decision lay profound strategic considerations.

The Roman military strategy heavily emphasized close combat, and they favored the use of the short sword because it was highly effective in close-quarters combat. Roman soldiers would begin a battle with long-range attacks using javelins and then swiftly transition to close combat, where their short swords became lethal weapons. Coupled with the small shields carried by the soldiers, these short swords enabled them to dispatch multiple enemies in a short amount of time.

Despite their relatively short length, the Roman short swords were not light in weight. They were primarily designed for thrusting but also featured double edges, making them suitable for slashing. They could be thrust directly into an enemy's heart or abdomen, inflicting fatal wounds. Of course, a crucial factor in achieving this effectiveness was the highly professional nature of the Roman military, characterized by rigorous military training. Their soldiers possessed exceptional skills in using short swords and shields.

One of the advantages of the short sword was its ability to inflict lethal damage rapidly, making it difficult for the enemy to continue fighting once wounded. In the tactical framework of the Roman military, the swift thrusting of the short sword made it an efficient weapon. Overall, the Roman short sword represents the diverse combat philosophies of different civilizations during the era of cold weapons.

Fourth place belongs to the Central Asian Damascus Sword, a blade featuring intricate water-like patterns on its surface. These blades, characterized by their high precision, hardness, toughness, and elasticity, are considered one of the top three renowned swords globally, making them one of the most influential cold weapons in the world.

The razor-sharp tip of the Central Asian Damascus Sword was known for its ability to cleave knights in armor in two on the battlefield and hold its own when clashing with other swords. Due to its unique smelting and forging methods, the beautiful patterns on the blade contained distinctive chemical compositions. Wounds inflicted by this sword would rapidly deteriorate and prove challenging to heal.

In ancient times, when medical science was not as advanced, even a minor wound could prove fatal to a soldier. Therefore, the reputation of the Central Asian Damascus Sword has endured throughout history. These ancient swords not only symbolize the beauty of blades but also carry the glory of history, intertwining human civilization with weapon craftsmanship.

Third place is occupied by the Ancient Egyptian Khopesh Sword. Ancient Egypt, with its rich history and civilization, left behind magnificent pyramids and mysterious pharaohs' tombs. It also crafted some remarkable weapons, including the Khopesh sword.

The Khopesh sword, also known as the Sickle sword, gets its name from the Egyptian term "Khopesh." It was a bronze sword widely used by the ancient Egyptians between 3000 BC and 1300 BC. The sword features an unusual and distinctive design, typically measuring around 50 to 60 centimeters in length. It combines the cutting effectiveness of a sword with the force of an axe, and its most eye-catching feature is its unique curved hook design.

The design is believed to be intended for hooking an opponent's weapon or shield to restrict their movement. Once the enemy is disarmed, the sword wielder can deliver a lethal strike. However, the pain inflicted by a Khopesh sword piercing the body was excruciating and almost unbearable.

In addition to its battlefield utility, the Ancient Egyptian Khopesh sword also carried a symbolic meaning of high social status. In early ancient Egypt, figures like Ramesses II were depicted wielding this sword, turning it into a symbol of authority and political power, akin to a scepter representing rulership and leadership.

Second place is claimed by the Russian Cossack Cavalry Saber. Russia is renowned for its warrior culture, and the Cossack cavalry represents one of its most fearless groups. The blades they wield are known as the "Eagle's Claw," making the Cossack Cavalry Saber a unique weapon globally.

This remarkable weapon is crafted from sturdy high-carbon steel, with a blade approximately 90 centimeters in length. It has a wide back and a leaf-shaped tip, combining both aesthetics and ferocity. Its cutting power is outstanding, effortlessly slicing through enemies as if chopping wood. The Cossack cavalry, mounted on horseback and wielding this formidable blade, charged onto the battlefield, making significant contributions during Russia's expansion into Siberia. They are often referred to as the "Eagles of the Don River region."

The Cossack Cavalry Saber has a long-standing tradition in Russian history and is forged from high-carbon steel, smelted using Central Asian iron ore. Its blade is wide and thick, forming a curved oak-leaf shape that occupies almost two-thirds of the blade, creating a deep blood groove, which imparts a unique curve and power to the blade. The hilt is in the shape of an eagle's head, typically made of wrapped copper, and the sword's balance is towards the rear of the blade.

While the Cossack Cavalry Saber may not appear particularly striking in its scabbard, once wielded, its curved blade can easily cleave small trees and shatter wooden stakes, demonstrating its formidable chopping power. Additionally, the copper eagle head on the hilt serves not only as decoration but also as a practical element. In emergencies, it can be used as an effective weapon to stun an opponent or damage their armor.

Taking the first place is the Chinese Mò Dāo, particularly the Great Tang Divine Weapon Mò Dāo. The description in historical records of the Tang Dynasty Mò Dāo reads, "Where the Mò Dāo passes, both people and horses are shattered," highlighting the awe-inspiring reputation of this weapon.

The Mò Dāo can be considered the king of cold weapons, and its name is legendary among enthusiasts of such weapons.

The Mò Dāo displayed exceptional versatility on ancient battlefields, excelling in individual combat, city defense, and close-quarters fighting. Its history can be traced back to the Han Dynasty's "Zhǎn Mǎ Dāo," but it reached its pinnacle during the Tang Dynasty.

During the Tang Dynasty, the Mò Dāo became standard equipment in the Tang military. These blades were long, reaching up to one zhang (approximately 3.3 meters) in length, had double-edged blades, and weighed up to 15 catties (approximately 9 kilograms), demonstrating their formidable killing power.

In Tang Dynasty murals, soldiers wielding the Mò Dāo can be seen, and although the blade hung from their waist, it still surpassed the length of other swords. When you add the length of the hilt, it was about 8 to 9 feet long, designed to withstand cavalry charges. The Mò Dāo had a double edge, a thick and heavy back, and a sharp tip, making it highly effective for pursuing and killing enemies. Each swing was accompanied by the spectacle of "white blades like frost flying, and red blood flowing like stars."

Given the need to withstand the charges of cavalry, the Mò Dāo required exceptional toughness. It was made from high-quality steel to ensure it could bear heavy pressure without deformation, which also contributed to its relatively high manufacturing cost.

Li Sìyè, an advocate of the Mò Dāo, led a Mò Dāo unit, becoming a specialized Tang Dynasty soldier tasked with subduing the formidable Turkic cavalry.

The Mò Dāo unit became the forerunners of the infantry using double-edged long swords in Chinese military history, and they performed exceptionally well. Li Sìyè himself was tall and imposing, earning praise such as "When Sìyè wields the Mò Dāo, both people and horses are shattered."

However, due to the complex manufacturing process and high cost of the Mò Dāo, the government during the Tang Dynasty imposed strict regulations on its production and use.

Even emperors and generals were not allowed to bring the Mò Dāo into their tombs. Therefore, in modern archaeological excavations, it is challenging to find traces of the Mò Dāo. Although the Mò Dāo has vanished in the long river of history, it continues to be an object of longing and fascination for those interested in ancient cold weapons.