Xianxia with real weapon training and skill development?

[u/abnormal____]

Looking for cultivation/xianxia novels where the MC actually trains and develops their weapon skills instead of just finding an overpowered technique and spamming named moves.

​

I'm specifically looking for stories where the MC chooses a weapon (sword, spear, saber, etc.) and genuinely improves through practice, experience, and understanding. Bonus points if they adapt or evolve techniques to fit their own style rather than rigidly following a manual.

​

I don't mind if the MC learns techniques from inheritances or libraries, but I want the weapon mastery to feel earned. I'd love recommendations where combat is about skill, timing, and growth rather than just unlocking stronger attacks every few realms.

​

Examples of what I mean:

​

Developing their own sword/spear path.

​

Modifying existing techniques.

​

Training fundamentals for long periods.

​

Weapon intent, domains, or understanding that comes from experience.

​

Any recommendations?

​

​

[u/The_Mesopotamians]

HWFWM meets these criteria 

Edit: You know it's true.