Fernando and David, you guys are presenting some fabulous discourse here on this most interesting topic! What I enjoy most is this kind of reasoning using known historical data and considering the possibilities and options which may have developed variations in weapons. Every time I think I've just about got this pegged, you guys present completely outstanding observations and support for different possibilities!!!
If this kind of analysis and discussion was attended to many weapons more often, I think many of the mysteries that remain unsolved might at least be better understood.
Nicely done guys, thank you!!!!