Double knife in Siu Lam Wing Chun
The double knives, also known as Soeng Dou, are a central training weapon in Siu Lam Wing Chun Kung Fu. This practice begins after a basic introduction to the techniques using short sticks and builds upon those skills. Due to their unique handling, the double knives offer an excellent opportunity to deepen one’s understanding of the specific concepts of the martial art. During training, a variety of partner drills are performed that not only sharpen technical skills but also activate muscle memory. This, in turn, has a positive impact on unarmed combat by transferring the principles and movements to unarmed fighting.
A historical look at double knives leads us to the Wu Dip Dou, or butterfly knives, which originally come from Fei Hung Kyun, the “Flying Red Fist.” This form entered our Wing Chun style via Pan Nam and has its roots in resistance fighting. The Lo family, known for their mastery of knife fighting within Siu Lam Wing Chun, has shaped this art. However, it is uncertain whether the Lo family’s specific knife style still exists today. Given their shared origins in Southern Chinese kung fu, a broad similarity to the Wu Dip Dou of Fei Hung Kyun can be assumed.
It is important to emphasize that we strongly advise against unarmed self-defense against a knife attack. Such situations carry a high risk, and no amount of training can guarantee a safe defense against an armed attacker. In such cases, it is advisable to prioritize your life by fleeing or handing over any valuables you are carrying. Direct confrontation during a knife attack can be life-threatening and should be avoided. In life-threatening situations, the course of action always depends on the specific circumstances. Drills that involve grappling during knife attacks are considered extremely risky and irresponsible.
