Highland Broadsword

Five manuals of Scottish Swordsmanship from the 17th - 19th centuries.The basket-hilted Scottish "broadsword" or Claymore has long been a symbol for Scottish independence and the fierce regard in which Scots warriors are still held. While the rest of Europe emphasized the use of smaller, lighter swords or curved cavalry models, the Scottish weapon retained its medieval flavor. The methods by which these swords were employed were recorded in numerous published treatises from the 17th - 19th centuries, true manuals combining fencing theory with practical exercises for techniques unique to these brutal weapons. Veteren swordsmen and accomplished authors Paul Wagner and Mark Rector present five key treatises that offer a wealth of advice for fighting with both the basket-hilted broadsword and the single stick -- an ash or rattan stick mounted in a wicker or leather basket-hilt, used both for training and as a weapon in its own right. Included are complete transcriptions of: "Anti-Pugilism" by Sinclair, illustrated with copper plate engravings; MacGregor’s "Lectures on the Art of Defence;" "The Art of Defence on Foot with Broadsword and Saber" by Taylor; "Fencing Familiarized" by Mathewson; and Henry Angelo’s "On the Use of the Broadsword," rendered in full color. These texts contain useful exercises for historical swordsmen of any background. In addition, Paul Wagner provides a full introduction and overview on the fascinating basket-hilted broadsword itself with a survey of surviving examples.