"The exercising of weapons putteth away aches, griefs, and diseases, it increaseth strength and sharpeneth the wits, it giveth a perfect judgment, it expelleth melancholy, choleric, and evil conceits, it keepeth a man in breath, in perfect healthe, and long life." – George Silver (1599)


Want to see how modern commercial swords hold up under strenuous conditions? This guy has a pile of swords and has put them through their paces. Good place to check out Western sword quality.




Here is something on Japanese swords.

This are totally fake but i sure wish i could buy one.
gun blade gunblade hyperion final fantasy sword


gun blade gunblade squall final fantasy sword

Just what is the difference between a broadsword and a longsword? A war-sword and a greatsword? A backsword or a falchion? A Schiavona, rapier or estoc?

This ARMA site has a very good synopsis with representative pictures.

Here is ARMA in Portland.

They fought with Mu Ryu once.

willow leaf saber sword
How pretty.

western swords rapier schiavona greatsword smallsword broadsword

katana parts sword tsuba saya diagram

katana parts sword shinken diagram