Spear

The spear (mao) was one of China's oldest and most iconic weapons, dating back to the Shang Dynasty (1600–1046 BCE). Made initially of bronze, then iron and steel, it evolved into versatile infantry and cavalry weapons like the qiāng (lance). The Ming Dynasty's "Hooked Spear" combined stabbing and slashing functions. Unlike European pikes, Chinese spears often had flexible shafts for better control. Used in warfare, hunting, and martial arts, it remained essential until gunpowder rendered it obsolete.