25/09/2026
《梁相門人小傳》化兵為拳
BARTCHAMDO: The Mother of Wing Chun
沉船側畔千帆過 By the sunken ship, a thousand sails drift in a row,
枯木山頭萬樹春 On the barren mount, a million trees in springtime glow.
長江後浪推前浪 Yangtze's waves, the new ones chase the old in a dance,
一代新人換舊人 One generation steps up, giving the next its chance.
在武林中，詠春派的「八斬刀」乃是一門絕學，歷經數百載，唯有入室弟子方得習之。此刀法，既是詠春門下尊嚴之象徵，亦是衡量門派正宗與師徒輩份的重要標準。相傳，當年葉問宗師之八斬刀法，僅有數位早期弟子得其真傳。記得有年，一位葉問後期弟子，在宗師仙逝多年後，驀地宣稱自己為僅存的三位親傳刀法弟子之一，此言一出，立刻激起門中諸多波瀾。在宗師未傳之徒中，有自立門戶者，依據己見創出新的八斬刀法，或跳躍翻騰，或耍出瑰麗刀花，使得這門刀法的「山寨版」風行江湖，真偽莫辨。甚至葉問宗師之親傳兩兒子，各展其刀法，也是各異其趣。據說，梁相先生，葉問宗師大弟子，其八斬刀法共分八節動作，然而能在梁相先生親自指導下完學此法者寥寥無幾，多數弟子只能向師兄弟們學習。如今，詠春八斬刀法在天南地北傳承，風格迥異，正宗二字，似乎已難以追尋。
The legendary BartChamDo knives form of the Wing Chun school, a profound and almost mythical discipline that has been passed down through centuries, is not merely a set of movements or a combat strategy. It is, in fact, a symbol of dignity and prestige within the Wing Chun community. It serves as a critical benchmark for authenticity and lineage within the school, distinguishing the masters from the novices, the authentic from the imitators. The story of the BartChamDo knives is intertwined with the legacy of Grandmaster Yip Man. It is said that only a handful of his early disciples were privy to the true essence of this form. This exclusivity has led to much debate and controversy within the Wing Chun community, especially when a late disciple of Yip Man claimed to be one of the only three remaining inheritors of this form. This claim stirred a wave of discussions and disputes among practitioners. In the absence of direct transmission from the grandmaster, some have ventured to establish their own interpretations of the BartChamDo knives form. These variations have led to a proliferation of different styles, each with its own unique flair and interpretation, making it increasingly challenging to discern the authentic techniques from the imitations. Furthermore, even Yip Man's own sons, each a master in their own right, have showcased distinct versions of the BartChamDo knives form, adding to the diversity of styles within the Wing Chun school. It is said that Leung Sheung, the most senior disciple of Grandmaster Yip Man, who mastered the BartChamDo knives form, divided the form into eight distinct sections. However, few have had the privilege to learn directly under his tutelage. Most practitioners have had to rely on learning from fellow students, further diversifying the interpretations of this form. Today, the BartChamDo knives form of Wing Chun is practiced far and wide, with each practitioner bringing their own unique style and interpretation to this ancient art form. The quest to find the true, authentic version continues, as the art evolves with each passing generation.
(Hong Kong Retired Firefighters Leung Sheung Wing Chun Class demonstrates BartChamDo Knife techniques) https://www.facebook.com/LeungSheungHeritage/videos/254626620981342
相傳詠春刀法原為散式，無定式套路，動作分為八節，每節僅數招，然而威力非凡。它融合直線與斜線攻防，從八個方向以「四上四落」步法進出，以雙刀齊發，刀腳並用，能多點同時出擊，故名「八斬刀」。八斬刀之起源，可追溯至清末林則徐年間。當時林大人在廣東操練水勇，所用之雙刀，便是八斬刀的雛形。因清朝庫存槍械不足，此刀便成為木艇兵員對抗鴉片戰爭中英軍的利器。英軍刺刀，不過是長槍之尖鐵，而八斬刀，短於蝴蝶雙刀，刀面窄而尖利，刀身後半厚重，便於枕攔，專破英軍刺刀之陣。此外，八斬刀在太平天國與大成國之軍隊中亦見踪影。更有傳言，在一百多年前的美國舊金山唐人街，此刀亦為黑幫所寵愛，成為一時的江湖絕學。如此看來，八斬刀非但武功高強，更兼具深厚的歷史文化底蘊，真乃江湖中的珍奇武學也。
The BartChamDo knives form, as legend has it, originated as a free fighting form without fixed routines. It is divided into eight sections, each comprising only a few movements or techniques, yet each technique is incredibly lethal. This form masterfully combines straight and diagonal lines, encompassing eight directions of attack and defense, famously known as "four advances and four retreats". What sets it apart is its use of dual knives, enabling simultaneous strikes from multiple points, hence its name. Tracing its origins back to the late Qing Dynasty, during the time of Lin Zexu, the BartChamDo knives has a storied past. Lin Zexu, while training naval forces in Guangdong, wielded a pair of BartChamDo knives that laid the foundation for this form. During the O***m Wars, when the Qing Dynasty faced a shortage of fi****ms, these BartChamDo knives became crucial weapons for naval infantry in their battles against the British forces. The British army's bayonets, mere iron tips on long spears, were no match for the BartChamDo knives. Shorter than the butterfly knives, these BartChamDo knives were narrow, sharp, and heavier on the rear half, making them ideal for breaking through enemy bayonet lines. Furthermore, the BartChamDo knives also played a significant role in the armies of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom and the Dacheng Kingdom. Intriguingly, over a hundred years ago, the BartChamDo knives found its way to the streets of San Francisco's Chinatown, where it became a prized skill among local gangs, elevating its status to a martial arts legend. Thus, the BartChamDo knives is not just a testament to martial prowess but also embodies the profound historical and cultural depth of Chinese martial arts. It is a rare jewel in the world of martial arts, a symbol of strength, resilience, and rich heritage.
1970年，陳春保作為梁相在自由道武館的忠心弟子，伴隨著他的師父搬遷至長沙街載福樓頂樓天台。這段時光，對於陳春保而言，是充滿敬仰和學習的日子。他在師父的身邊，日以繼夜地學習八斬刀法和詠春拳的精髓。與梁相共進三餐甚至宵夜，這段同居的生活讓他們的關係更為緊密。在那個狹小的天台上，陳春保不僅學習到了武術技巧，更領悟到了詠春拳的哲學。梁相告訴他，詠春是「人形」的功夫，強調的是人類使用工具進行有效的攻擊和防守，不同於其他動物(例如蛇或鶴)的純粹肉體搏鬥本能。詠春拳，作為一種「化兵為拳」的技巧，其精華在於手法的靈活運用，即使是在沒有武器的情況下，手也能化作刀。1978年，梁相在聖德肋撒醫院(法國醫院)逝世，陳春保在這一刻陪伴在他身邊，為師父送上最後的告別。這不僅是身為弟子的盡責，更是對師父深厚情感的體現。陳春保甚至組織一群同門為梁相的巨額住院費用捐款，當中同門劉耀威最為慷慨。回想起那些年在長沙街的時光，陳春保心中充滿了感慨。梁相不僅賜給他珍貴的八斬刀法和詠春拳的知識，還親手訂製了八斬刀贈送給他和其他兩位同門(李健俊、車世祥)。這些刀具，每把刀重8兩(0.3公斤)，有獨特的形狀和重要的意義，刃上刻有詩句，提醒著學習者要持之以恆地修行，並且認真對待生命。如今，當陳春保回憶起這些往事，他的心中充滿了對師父的感激和對武術傳承的堅定。梁相不僅是他的武術導師，更是他人生道路上的重要引導者。
The year was 1970, a pivotal moment in Chan Chun Po's life, as he accompanied his master, Leung Sheung, to reside and teach out of the rooftop of Joye F**k Mansion on Changsha Street. This period marked an era of profound admiration and learning for Chan Chun Po. Day and night, he immersed himself in mastering the BartChamDo knives form and the essence of Wing Chun under the tutelage of his master. Their relationship deepened through the simplicity of shared daily routines, including meals and late night conversations. It was on that small rooftop that Chan Chun Po not only honed his martial arts skills but also internalized the philosophy of Wing Chun. Leung Sheung taught him that Wing Chun is a "Human Form" of martial arts, emphasizing effective attack and defense using tools, as opposed to the pure physical combat of animals like Snake or Crane. Wing Chun, as a style of "Transforming Weapon Fighting into Empty Hand Fighting Techniques", focuses on the agile use of hands, which can become as lethal as using BartChamDo knives. Hence, BartChamDo knives is the "Mother of Wing Chun". In 1978, a moment of profound significance, Leung Sheung passed away at St. Teresa's Hospital. Chan Chun Po was there, by his side, embodying the true spirit of a devoted disciple and reflecting the deep emotional bond they shared, ensuring a dignified farewell for his master. In a final act of respect and gratitude, Chan Chun Po organized fellow students to shoulder the considerable medical expenses, fellow student Lau Yiu Wai being the most generous. Reflecting on those years spent on Changsha Street, Chan Chun Po's heart is filled with deep emotion. Leung Sheung not only imparted the invaluable knowledge of the BartChamDo knives and Wing Chun but also personally crafted and gifted these BartChamDo knives to him and his fellow disciples, Lee Kin Chun and Che Sai Cheung. These BartChamDo knives, each knife weighing 8 taels (0.3 kg), unique in shape and significant in meaning, engraved with the aforementioned poetic verses, serve as a reminder to the practitioners to persevere in their practice and to treat life with seriousness and respect. As Chan Chun Po reminisces about these past events, his heart is brimming with gratitude for his master and a steadfast commitment to the legacy of martial arts. Leung Sheung was more than just a martial arts instructor to him; he was a guiding force in his life's journey. Their story is not just a tale of martial prowess, but a testament to the human spirit and the transformative power of mentorship.
陳春保有幸拜在梁相門下，學得他那絕世好刀———詠春八斬刀。此刀法講究速度與靈動，勁力全出自手腕，刀鋒過處，高不過眉，闊不過膊，寓意在於刀法的實用與精練，非華而不實之舉。梁相詠春刀法中的「耕、滾、枕」三式，皆為基礎中的精髓，左右雙刀齊發，含攻亦有守。馬步要求靈動，如行雲流水，「四上四落」步步為營。此刀法之精妙，在於利用(a)步法轉移身體重心，(b)利用手腕之轉動改變刀式，(c)利用敏感聽力透過武器相碰判斷敵我位置，猶如詠春黐手般，攻防之間連消帶打，不給敵人留下絲毫喘息之機。梁相大師親傳的八斬刀法，在陳春保手中，更是發揮得淋漓盡致，他的武學造詣，令《消防退休人員互助會》梁相詠春拳術班學員無不敬仰。
The incredible martial arts journey of Chan Chun Po, a disciple who had the rare privilege of learning under the tutelage of the great Leung Sheung, is one of mastery, dedication, and the profound art of the Wing Chun BartChamDo knives. The Wing Chun BartChamDo knives, as practiced and perfected by Chan Chun Po, is an art form that emphasizes speed and agility. The power of the techniques originates from the wrists, creating movements that are not only swift and fluid but also practical and refined. This BartChamDo knives form is designed to be effective and efficient, eschewing any unnecessary flourish in favor of real combat utility. Within Leung Sheung's teachings, the fundamental essence of the BartChamDo knives form can be found in three key techniques: Gang Do, Kwan Do and Jum Do. These form the core of his BartChamDo knives art, characterized by fluidity and precision. The dual BartChamDo knives form, coupled with nimble footwork, embodies the concept of "four advances and four retreats", integrating offense and defense in a seamless dance. The subtlety and sophistication of the technique lie in three aspects: (a) the use of footwork to shift the body's weight, (b) the manipulation of the wrist to alter BartChamDo knives forms, and (c) the use of sensitivity to gauge the opponent's position through the force of clashing weapons. Much like the Wing Chun sticky hands technique, this BartChamDo knives art intertwines attack and defense in a continuous flow, giving the opponent no chance to recover. Chan Chun Po, inheriting the BartChamDo knives form from late Sifu Leung Sheung, exemplified this martial art to its fullest potential. His skill and deep understanding of martial arts have earned him immense respect and admiration from the students of the Hong Kong Retired Firefighters Leung Sheung Wing Chun Martial Arts Class. The story of Chan Chun Po is not just a tale of martial prowess; it is a narrative that showcases the beauty of discipline, the depth of traditional martial arts, and the enduring legacy of a master and his disciple. As we reflect on his journey, let us draw inspiration from his dedication and strive to carry forward the rich heritage of martial arts.
(Chan Chun Bo explains the Simplified BartChamDo Knives Curriculum for Beginners) https://www.facebook.com/LeungSheungHeritage/videos/1408278203095335
此外，這裡還有一些關於刀法學習的簡短提示：
A few quick tips on the practice of BartChamDo knives:
(1)江湖傳言，梁相大師的詠春八斬刀法，非比尋常。此法之精髓，在於「刀馬」之掌握。刀馬乃是詠春標指三角步法之妙用，走如疾風，轉如游龍。在這門刀法中，走位之快速和精準，乃是勝敗的關鍵。陳春保在他的示範表演中說，面對敵人，要避開對方的攻擊，悄無聲息地進入敵人的死角，出其不意地給予致命一擊。在古代戰場上，以重刀長槍為主，短兵器難以近身。然而，詠春八斬刀法正是破解此困境的關鍵。梁相詠春刀法，輕靈迅捷，專門針對敵人的弱點。江湖有句老話：要斬一個人，只需要砍他的手，敵人拿不起武器，失去戰鬥力，打落去怎麼樣贏？八斬刀雖短，但經常由於雙刀齊出，刀腳齊攻，務求先斬中敵人，尤其喜歡削敵前鋒手，即使只削掉敵人一隻手指頭，令對方雙手拿不起兵器，喪失戰鬥能力，敵人仍然會精神蹦潰放棄戰鬥。這種方法，是八斬刀的一個致勝原因和佛門武術慈悲精神所在。
The Wing Chun BartChamDo knives, mastered by the great Leung Sheung who was renowned for its exceptional skill, centers around the art of Dao Ma "knife footwork", a unique application of the Wing Chun Biu Jee's triangular stepping method. It embodies agility akin to a swift breeze and the fluidity of a roaming dragon. In this BartChamDo knives form, the key to victory lies in the speed and precision of one’s movement. As Chan Chun Po demonstrated in his performances, facing an adversary, one must evade their attacks, silently maneuver into their blind spot, and deliver an unexpected, lethal strike. In ancient battlefields, where heavy and long spears reigned supreme, short weapons struggled in close combat. However, the Wing Chun BartChamDo knives emerged as a solution to this predicament. Leung Sheung Wing Chun's BartChamDo knives form, characterized by its lightness and swiftness, targets an opponent's vulnerabilities. There's an old saying in the martial world: "If you aim to slash a person, aim only at the hand to disarm the weapon. Without the weapon, the enemy loses his fighting ability. How then, can he win?" Although the BartChamDo knives are short, its power often lies in the simultaneous use of dual blades and coordinated movements of hand and foot, aiming to strike the enemy first, particularly targeting their leading hand. Even by severing just a finger, rendering the enemy incapable of wielding their weapon, leads to their mental collapse and surrender. This approach is not only a key to victory with the BartChamDo knives but also embodies the compassionate spirit of Buddhist martial arts.
(2)詠春拳理有云：「行拳看肘，出刀看腕」。陳春保將詠春刀法的理念，巧妙融入黐手之中，用腕關節作為第二肘關節，使手中的刀，成為他肢體延伸的一部分，人器合一。在他的八斬刀教導後，學員黐手變得更加犀利。八斬刀在實戰中，需遵循「出刀不回頭，轉腕搶先機」的原則。陳春保的手腕勁力起落，是經過數十年鍛煉刀出來的非凡功力。通過不斷練習直、橫、斜的刀勁，尋找落點的精準，才能真正理解黐手中腕力的所在。陳春保提醒弟子，若練習八斬刀卻不能掌握這些要點，則不足以稱其為「正宗」。在他的指導下，弟子們漸漸領會到，真正的八斬刀，不僅僅是揮刀斬擊，更在於對刀勁、角度和時機的深刻理解。陳春保的教導，使得梁相詠春刀法在江湖上威名遠播，成為後人爭相學習的絕技。
In Wing Chun, there is a saying: "In practicing punches, watch the elbows; in wielding a knife, watch the wrist." Chan Chun Po ingeniously integrates this philosophy into the practice of Chisao (sticking hands), using the wrist joint as the second elbow joint, transforming the sword in hand into an extension of the limb, uniting the lethal weapon with the human body. Under his tutelage in the BartChamDo knives, his students' Chisao becomes increasingly sharp and formidable. In actual combat, the BartChamDo knives adheres to the principle: "Strike with the blade without hesitation, and seize the opportunity with a swift turn of the wrist." The strength and control in Chan Chun Po's wrists are the result of decades of dedicated training, a testament to his exceptional skill. By continuously practicing the direct, horizontal, and diagonal forces of the blade and mastering the precision of striking points, one truly comprehends the essence of wrist strength in Chisao. Chan Chun Po reminds his disciples that if one practices the BartChamDo knives without mastering these key aspects, it cannot be considered authentic. Under his guidance, his students gradually understand that the true art of the BartChamDo knives is not merely about slashing and striking. It is, more importantly, about a deep understanding of the blade's energy, angles, and timing. Thanks to Chan Chun Po's teachings, Leung Sheung Wing Chun BartChamDo knife techniques have gained immense reputation in the martial arts world, becoming a coveted skill for future generations to learn and master.
(3)遠古五代十國後梁高僧布袋和尚曾有詩云：「手把青秧插滿田，低頭便見水中天；六根清淨方為道，退步原來是向前。」在練習八斬刀法時，「手把青秧插滿田」這一句象徵著需要不斷地重複基礎動作，就像農夫耐心地一株一株插秧。無論是任何武術，基本功的紮實是成功的基石，這意味著要不斷練習，即使是最基本的動作，也要反覆鍛煉以達到熟練的程度。「低頭便見水中天」這一句解釋在練習武術時，學者要有自省和內觀的能力。習武不僅是身體的訓練，更是心靈和思想的鍛煉，武人通過內心深思，可以達到更高層次的武術理解和運用。「六根清淨方為道」這句話強調了武術修練中心態的重要性。在練習八斬刀法時，保持心境的清淨、平靜和專注是非常關鍵的，只有內心清淨無雜念，才能在實戰中發揮出最佳的水平，做出迅速而精確的反應。最後，「退步原來是向前」這句話在八斬刀法中的應用，可以理解為戰術上的調整。有時在對戰中，暫時的退後，實際上是為了更好地觀察對手，調整策略，從而尋找更有利的攻擊機會。陳春保認為八斬刀法「四上四落」之中，以退為進、以反擊為主的防守，比直接衝擊進攻的技巧更高。同時，這也意味著在學習過程中，有時需要暫時退一步，反思自己的技巧和策略，從而達到長遠的進步。
A famous monk from the ancient Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms Period once wrote a poem:
"Hands planting seedlings, fields turning green,
Bow my head, in the water, skies are seen.
A pure heart sets the path, clear and keen,
Stepping back to move forward, the unseen scene."
This poem, when interpreted in the context of a knife fighter, offers profound insights into the philosophy and strategy of martial arts, particularly those involving bladed weapons. The first sentence symbolizes the importance of diligent practice and mastery of fundamentals. For a knife fighter, it stresses the significance of repetitive training and honing basic skills, much like a farmer meticulously plants each seedling. Mastery of the basics forms a strong foundation for advanced techniques. The second sentence suggests a perspective shift and encourages looking at things from different angles. For a knife fighter, it can mean understanding the importance of adaptability and the ability to anticipate and react to an opponent's moves, recognizing that sometimes the answer or the right strategy is not always direct or obvious. The third sentence emphasizes the mental and spiritual aspects of martial arts. A knife fighter must maintain a clear and focused mind, free of distractions and emotional turbulence. This mental clarity and inner peace are crucial for making precise, controlled, and ethical decisions in combat. The last sentence highlights the strategic value of retreat or defensive tactics in combat. Chan Chun Po strongly believes for a knife fighter, sometimes taking a step back, physically or metaphorically, can be a smarter move. It can provide a tactical advantage, allowing one to reassess the situation, conserve energy, and identify a more effective approach to engage the opponent. Overall, this poem teaches a knife fighter about the importance of consistent practice, mental agility, inner peace, and strategic retreat – all essential elements for mastery in the art of knife fighting.
一百年前的佛山，可以說是一個江湖猛人的世界，拳、刀、劍、棍大派用場。八斬刀的威力，在一個「快」字，由於動作小，速度快，使用時大派用場，使人擋無可擋，避無可避，所到之處，使人聞刀膽喪。八斬刀成為一代名刀，自有它的道理。
Journey back a hundred years to Foshan, a place that was, in essence, a world of martial legends. It was an era where the arts of fists, knives, swords, and staffs held great significance. In this realm of martial prowess, the BartChamDo knives stood out for its formidable power, captured in one word: SPEED. Due to its small, rapid movements, the technique was highly effective and versatile in combat, making it nearly impossible for opponents to block or evade. Wherever it was employed, it struck fear into the hearts of adversaries, causing them to lose their courage at the mere mention of this blade. The BartChamDo knives which carries reputation as a legendary weapon was no accident; it was a testament to its effectiveness and the skill of those who wielded it. Its swift and precise strikes, a hallmark of this technique, not only exemplified the art of the blade but also reflected the strategic and physical acumen required to master it. This weapon and its technique symbolize more than just martial skill; they represent a rich cultural heritage, an era where martial arts were not just forms of self-defense or combat, but also a means of personal development, discipline, and artistry. The legacy of the BartChamDo knives, and the era it hails from, reminds us of the depth and sophistication of our martial arts history.
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