Central African for ID

Ian · 9th January 2026, 02:41 PM

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

9th January 2026, 02:41 PM	#7
Ian Vikingsword Staff Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: The Aussie Bush Posts: 4,732	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 Last edited by Ian; 9th January 2026 at 04:34 PM. Reason: Spelling