Question about "scimitars"

Ian · Today, 01:02 PM

Welcome to the Ethnographic Forum, ebuhamza135, and thank you for your question. I hope you enjoy your time here.

As I think you are aware, the word "scimitar" does not occur in the Muslim world. What is popularly depicted as a "scimitar" is a falchion-like sword with a blade that widens toward the tip and has a prominent clip. More generally, the term seems to have been applied to curved sabers that were used primarily as slashing weapons, rather than stabbing swords used commonly by western Europeans. Curved swords with convex edges were very common in Islamic cultures, and there are numerous words to describe them.

We have several experts on Islamic swords here who will no doubt be along shortly to help you with your question.

Regards,

Ian.

Today, 01:02 PM	#2
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,175	Welcome to the Ethnographic Forum, ebuhamza135, and thank you for your question. I hope you enjoy your time here. As I think you are aware, the word "scimitar" does not occur in the Muslim world. What is popularly depicted as a "scimitar" is a falchion-like sword with a blade that widens toward the tip and has a prominent clip. More generally, the term seems to have been applied to curved sabers that were used primarily as slashing weapons, rather than stabbing swords used commonly by western Europeans. Curved swords with convex edges were very common in Islamic cultures, and there are numerous words to describe them. We have several experts on Islamic swords here who will no doubt be along shortly to help you with your question. Regards, Ian.