Patreon post: Flaws and gaps of samurai armour

 

This article is a continuation of my previous armour comparison blog post, exploring various gaps and weakness of Japanese armour. The article is available to my patrons one month early, but it is open to public now!

The article can be accessed here. If you like my work, please support me via Patreon!

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Guang Chuan (廣船)

UPDATED AUGUST 8, 2025

Drawing of a Guang Chuan. Note the outrigger that extends beyond the hull, as well as armed soldiers inside crow's nests. From 'Deng Tan Bi Jiu (《登壇必究》)'.

Guang Chuan (廣船, lit. 'Guangdong ship') was a class of Chinese junk originating in Guangdong and commonly used across entire Lingnan region. It was one of the "Four Great Ancient Ships" of China, and the one which is least understood.

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Sha Chuan (沙船)

UPDATED JULY 23, 2025

Drawing of a Sha Chuan, from 'Wu Bei Zhi (《武備志》)'.

Originating from Chongming Island at the mouth of the Yangtze River, Sha Chuan (沙船, lit. 'Sand ship') was one of the iconic "Four Great Ancient Ships" of China, and one that could trace the longest history.

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