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THE SWORD: MYTH & REALITY Technology, History, Fighting, Forging, Movie Swords Thomas Laible
• Accessible reference book explains the difference between swords in popular culture and the real world • Information spanning three millennia, with more than 500 color photos • Essential for folks who handle real swords or for those with an active fantasy life
The history, manufacture, and ancient and modern uses of swords in Europe from the 5th century to today can be found here in one convenient source. Learn sword nomenclature and classification, discover sword physics secrets, and compare the history of swordsmanship in Europe to that of Japan. Practical information on different sword types, including those used by Vikings and Samurai, broadens the reader’s understanding of the technical diversity of and relationships between swords from different eras and cultures. Readers can also learn how to tell authentic swords apart from fantasy swords, or “sword-like objects” (SLO), which are commonly used in movies like the Lord of the Rings trilogy. Also, follow the manufacturing process, from welding to pommel construction, and read about historical replicas. Join the authors and countless other featured sword masters and experts on a fact-based and fun-filled adventure from the Middle Ages to modern Europe. Thomas Laible studied history and education and works as an editor of the journal “Weapons: Internal Marke.t” He has been working for 20 years with swords, daggers, and knives and has written several books and numerous articles on these topics. Size: 8 1/2" x 11" • 526 color photos • 240 pp. ISBN: 978-0-7643-4877-8 • hard cover • $50.00 FOR RELATED BOOKS SEE PAGE 76 • AVAILABLE IN SEPTEMBER
SWORD FIGHTING 2: An Introduction to the Single-Handed Sword and Buckler Herbert Schmidt
• Detailed single-handed sword fighting and buckler-wielding instruction based on Medieval combat manuals • Step-by-step guide to multiple fighting stances and methods • High-quality still photos offer rich details of every movement and action
In the sequel to the first volume, which introduced the long sword, Herbert Schmidt explains single-handed sword fighting techniques with a buckler, or small shield. “Single-handed sword” here refers to the sword wielded in one hand, as used throughout almost the entire Middle Ages. This book analyzes historical evidence, taken mainly from the 13th-century German combat manual Manuscript I:33, or “Tower Manuscript,” the oldest and most widely trusted European sword fighting manual in existence. Find information on binds, posture, footwork, free fighting, and individual plays taken from the writings of fencing masters Hans Talhoffer, Andre Lignitzer, and Paulus Kal in this modern textbook that allows anyone interested—whether beginner or advanced—to work and improve his single-handed sword fighting skills. Herbert Schmidt is the leader of Ars Gladii, the Austrian swordfighting club, and is part of an international research community that is reconstructing historical European swordfighting and awakening it to new life. Size: 8 1/2" x 11" • 934 color photos • 240 pp. ISBN: 978-0-7643-4826-6 • hard cover • $39.99 FOR RELATED BOOKS SEE PAGE 76 • AVAILABLE IN OCTOBER