Chain whip
The chain whip is a weapon used in some Asian martial arts, including modern and traditional wushu. It consists of several metal rods, which are joined end-to-end by rings to form a flexible chain. Generally, the whip has a handle at one end and a metal dart, used for slashing or piercing an opponent, at the other. A cloth flag is often attached at or near the dart end of the whip, and a second flag may cover the whip's handle. The flag or flags enhance a wushu performance by adding visual appeal, and by producing a rushing sound as the whip swings through the air. They also help stabilize the whip, enhancing the performer's control. This reduces the performer's risk of inadvertently striking themself.
The chain whip is heavy but flexible, making it a fearsome combat weapon. The chain itself can be literally used as a whip; it can entangle and trap an opponent, restricting her movement; and it can be used defensively to deflect blows from other weapons. The dart is used for slashing or piercing an opponent. Because the whip is flexible, it can be used to strike around obstacles, including an opponent's block. The whip chain can be folded and hidden from view, making it an easy weapon to carry and conceal.
Chain whip forms are often extremely elaborate. In some, the chain whip is thrown in the air and caught, flicked around the neck, or flung around underneath a recumbant performer. One classic technique, used to accelerate a spinning chain whip, involves rapidly wrapping and unwrapping the length of the chain around various parts of the body, including the legs, neck and elbows. Various twisting or flicking motions cause the chain whip to gain momentum as it unwraps. Chain whip techniques may be combined with jumping kicks and other acrobatics. Double chain whip forms have been developed, as have forms in which a chain whip is coupled with a broadsword.
A similar weapon using a length of rope instead of chain is known as a rope dart. This weapon is lighter and less expensive than a chain whip, and is used in many of the same techniques.
Whip variations
- Jiujiebian - nine section whip
- Qijiebian - seven section whip
- Samjitbin or plum flower - three section whip.
