The prop weapon crescent spade has its roots in the spade, another ordinary farming implement. However, its present form provides little clue to its original usage. During conflicts and fights, farmers often used their tools as improvised weapons. As it evolved, sharp blades were installed at the end of the handle to facilitate backward stabs, and it gradually developed into a weapon with a spade on one end and a crescent blade on the other. Not solely exclusive to Journey to the West and The Water Margin films, the crescent spade is wielded by Gordon Liu Chia-hui in The 36th Chamber of Shaolin (1978) as well as by Lau Kar Leung in Legendary Weapons of China (1982). The glittery spade head, animated by vehement and vicious moves, adds pizazz to the already dazzling fight scenes.

Spike-toothed Rake (left) and Crescent Spade (right)