 The hook swords, often called the tiger hook swords, are a Chinese weapon traditionally associated with northern style kung fu, but have also spread to southern styles as well. Now history and usage on this weapon is debated. The lack of records documenting this use among military personnel suggests that the sword may have been primarily a civilian weapon. It sports a rather unique and intimidating design. The elongated spine of the weapon is used as a traditional sword, while its hooked end is effective at catching limbs, hooking armor, as well as catching and tripping an opponent. The hilt extends into a sharpened blade, and the hands are protected by a crescent shape design. Even more unique is that the swords are more often used in pair and are sometimes loosely hooked together and swung around extending the combat's deadly twirls. A very unpleasant thought when remembering the sharpened hilt. The hook swords definitely leave a cool and stylish mark on the martial arts history. Oh, and in flesh, they leave a mark on flesh too.