"Knives, swords and bayonets are the world's longest serving arms and some of the most important in history. Originally a simple stone tool, once metals such as iron and bronze became regularly worked, edged weapons appear in the archaeological record. [This book] discusses in detail the long history of these arms, from primitively produced knives and machetes to the exquisite metalwork of Japanese swords. Throughout, the author discusses how these weapons were wielded and their strengths and weaknesses. The book covers all regions of the world and all time periods, from the swords of ancient Egypt and medieval Islamic states to the knives of Africa and today's special forces"--P. [2] of jacket.

This book examines the history of edged weapons in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Middle East and surrounding areas before gunpowder increased the distance between combatants. It takes a critical look at the relationship between the soldier, his weapon, and the social and political mores of the times; examines the historical background and metallurgic science of the knife, sword, or bayonet respectively; and explores the handling characteristics and combat applications of each weapon. The book is written for those with an interest in exploring the historical beginnings of edged weaponry, how edged weapons have been used in war in different parts of the world, and the value the soldier attached to his weapon. Military, social, and political history is discussed. Although more than one-hundred photos and illustrations are represented, arms collectors or others with detailed interest in the finer points of weaponsmithing may want to look for books that are more heavily illustrated. The book comprises the full series of ten previously published shorter book on specialized edged weapons and regions, each of which can also be purchased separately: 1. Kukris and Gurkhas: Nepalese Kukri Combat Knives and the Men Who Wield Them 2. Machete, Kris, and Throwing Iron: Edged Weapons of Latin America, Indonesia, and Africa 3. Cold Steel: The Knife in Army, Navy, and Special Forces Operations 4. Japanese Swords: The Katana and Gunto in Medieval and Modern Japanese Warfare 5. Chinese Swords: The Evolution and Use of the Jian and Dao 6. Yatagan, Khanda, and Jamdhar: Swords and Sabers of Persia and India 7. Sickle Sword and Battle Axe: Edged Weapons of Ancient Egypt 8. Gladius and Spatha: Swords and Warfare in the Classical World 9. Longsword and Saber: Swords and Swordsmen of Medieval and Modern Europe 10. Pike, Halberd, and Bayonet: Sharp Weapons in Near Modern and Modern Warfare

Nearly 100 German military edged weapons are presented in this sumptuously photographed volume featuring information about their owners. Spanning nearly two hundred years, Legacies in Steel is an in-depth photographic study of historical edged weapons from the German military. The elegant details of each selection are displayed in close-up detail. Many of these weapons belonged to nobility, aristocrats, high-ranking military personnel as well as soldiers and seamen. Where possible, the careers and exploits of these former owners are highlighted, bringing both personal and historical context to these beautifully crafted artifacts. By the 19th century, swords and daggers were no longer effective fighting weapons, but they maintained their popularity in Western Europe as uniform regalia. They were carried as a symbol of authority, achievement, and most importantly, honor. These weapons were produced with great skill and at high cost, requiring the skill of specialized artisans, often using precious metals and ivory, elaborate hand engraving and chiseling. Blades were fabricated of the highest quality Solingen steel. Folded steel Damascus blades were also painstakingly produced. Many examples are unique and border on singular works of art.

For the outdoorsman or soldier, a knife is not a luxury, it is a necessity. One of man's most basic tools, a knife can gather and prepare food, build and tend a fire, create a shelter and signal for rescue; and when the chips are down, it will do duty as a lethal close combat weapon. Knives: Military Edged Tools & Weapons covers the whole range of blades available to the modern soldier, from fighting knives and bayonets, through combat and survival knives, to the versatile multi-tools and folders, not forgetting special purpose blades such as the machete, special forces shovel, combat tomahawk and even the assegai. It is often erroneously thought that these knives are designed solely for killing; this book seeks to show that they are in fact truly multi-purpose tools.

Learn about the evolution of weapons by studying the design of the Civil War weapons cataloged in this attractive, full-color reference book. More than three million Americans fought in the Civil War and over six hundred thousand men, or two percent of the population, died in this dreadful conflict. Its impact is still felt today, for the war shaped our nation, and our national character. Studying the weapons used by both the Union army and Confederate forces tells an intriguing story of its own. The well-equipped Union army had access to the best of the industrial North's manufacturing output. By contrast, the South had to get by with imported arms and locally made copies of patented weapons. But the pressure of war quickly led to improvements in both sides' firearms. A War that began with single-shot horse pistols ended with multi-shot revolvers. Poignant archive photography is used throughout the book, showing the weapons in contemporary action, and placing them in their Civil War context. Evocative paintings by renowned Civil War artist Don Troiani bring the battlefield action to life.

Chronicles the Imperial, Weimar and Third Reich periods, answering many questions about previously unidentified knots and hangers.