European and Military Swords

[Jim McDougall]

The new forum is runnin' 'great guns' !!!! Its great to see so much discussion on the great firearms of history, especially those of such antiquity that have been shared here. As I have noted, I know that my knowledge of antique and historical firearms can best be classified as a cursory working knowledge so its great to see these posted and outstanding historic detail added.

The scope of the forum not only includes these as well as the esoterica of armour and range of all weapons, but the area that seems lacking so far are the classic European edged weapons, including military and civilian forms.

I know you guys out there have some outstanding examples, and I'd like to see them posted and discussed here in hopes we can put together some informational threads. I'd really like to see some of the well known forms brought in, for example...the SCHIAVONA.

These beautiful basket hilt swords have some fascinating and colorful history, and it would be great to examples posted and talk about the history and development of the form. I know these have been well discussed elsewhere, but bringing in the historic data with actual examples really adds dimension.
I'd like to see examples marked with the Council of Ten, and learn more on that often secretive organization.

C'mon guys.....lets add some swords to the fantastic spectrum of arms and armour being brought in here.



All the best,
Jim