Quick dha question..

Mark · 14th May 2007, 02:56 PM

I think Alaung Hpaya has covered the question well. I would only add that you can expect simple, unadorned dha to be mean for actual use. In most cases they were dual-purpose tools and weapons.

If you plan on using a dha for martial arts practice, be away that the tangs on these are very short (between 2 and 3 inches for even a full-length blade). This is the traditional and proper form of the tang, by the way, and not any indication that the dha is not "real." The blade is often just pressure fit in the grip, though pitch or other adhesive is also used. As they age or are taken to a drier climate, the wood of the handle contracts, and the adhesive deteriorates and cracks. Thus, the blade can become loose or unstable in the grip and could easily fly off when the dha is swung. So if you want to use it for martial arts training, be sure that the blade is well affixed in the handle.

14th May 2007, 02:56 PM	#4
Mark Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Posts: 987	I think Alaung Hpaya has covered the question well. I would only add that you can expect simple, unadorned dha to be mean for actual use. In most cases they were dual-purpose tools and weapons. If you plan on using a dha for martial arts practice, be away that the tangs on these are very short (between 2 and 3 inches for even a full-length blade). This is the traditional and proper form of the tang, by the way, and not any indication that the dha is not "real." The blade is often just pressure fit in the grip, though pitch or other adhesive is also used. As they age or are taken to a drier climate, the wood of the handle contracts, and the adhesive deteriorates and cracks. Thus, the blade can become loose or unstable in the grip and could easily fly off when the dha is swung. So if you want to use it for martial arts training, be sure that the blade is well affixed in the handle.