again, it depends on the dynasty -
even though the jian fell out of widespread battlefield use, it was still a revered weapon of the elite aristocrat.
Halberds were extremely popular during the three kingdoms, but the spear just ended up being the more practical weapon. Eventually rifles, canons, and pistols found their way to the battlefield.
one thing I know for sure is that since I started looking at the academic books on Chinese martial arts that focus on archaeological evidence and authentic historical writings... Bawang is right and telling the truth about historical Chinese martial arts.
The real history is actually better and more interesting than the myths that are often told.