Dear Ibrahim,
Salaams! Thank you very much for your reply. I found it quite informative.

It's quite clear that the swords in this thread are not in my specialization. Being new to this site and discussion forum, I would like to participate in threads dealing with medieval swords and armor dating from 550 to 1300 CE. Though I must admit that I'm quite knowledgeable in arms and armor dating to other periods, I believe that one should stick to his own specialization.
I'm very indebted to your reply, sir. Thank you very much, once again.