This encyclopedia traces the fascinating history of knives,

daggers, bayonets, swords, sabres and lances, from their

Palaeolithic origins through to the 21st century. Weapons

from around the world are examined, such as the

decorated daggers of Persia and the exquisite knives

of Japan. A superb directory features 750 examples of

sharp-edged weapons, describing the origins, capabilities

and specifications of each one. With 1500 photographs

and illustrations, and written by leading experts in the

field, this beautiful guide is an indispensable resource for

the serious collector and amateur enthusiast alike, and will

fascinate anyone with an interest in historical weapons.

• An authoritative guide to sharp-edged weapons,

from their origins in the Stone Age through to the

21st century, with 1500 color photographs

• Describes ancient and modern weapons, such as

the first flint daggers, the spears of ancient Greece,

Samurai swords, knightly swords, fencing blades,

and the bayonets of World War II

• Includes a comprehensive visual directory of over

750 blades arranged by period, with expert descriptions

and details of origin, date and length

Harvey J. S. Withers has been a

successful dealer in antique military swords for many

years, and is the author of several books about swords.

Dr Tobias Capwell has a PhD in Medieval Studies from

the University of Leeds, and is Curator of Arms and

Armour at the Wallace Collection in London, England.