[Ian]

Hi Detlef,

Yes, I've read similar stories about these swords "reaching around" shields to cause damage, similar to the reported use of shotels. No less authority than Richard F Burton (The Book of the Sword) commented on this manner of use for the shotel. Burton, an expert swordsman, expressed disdain for this type of swordplay.

In the reference I quoted above for the illustration, it is said that the African sickle swords/throwing knives are likely derived from much earlier Egyptian weapons. Egyptian influence in the time of the Pharaohs extended beyond Sudan into Central Africa. These swords/knives have likely gone through periods when this style was mainly used as a sword or mainly used as a throwing weapon.

Regards, Ian