The zhanmadao is a sabre with a single long broad blade, and a long handle suitable for two-handed use.

Dating to 1072, it was used as an anti-calvary weapon. This is mentioned in the "Wu Jing Zong Yao Song Military Manual" from 1072

Surviving examples include a sword that might resemble a nagamaki in construction; it had a wrapped handle 37 centimetres long making it easy to grip with two hands. The blade was 114 centimetres long and very straight with a slight curve in the last half.