New Article - Top Myths of RMA

[Webmaster]

A new article is now online in the Spotlight section:

Top Myths of Renaissance Martial Arts

[Gene Tausk]

Excellent article and long overdue. Unfortunately, listing all the myths in this vast subject would likely take an encyclopedia, but these are the most common myths (or at least, the ones I have encountered), so this should go a long way in helping to reduce ignorance in this matter.

Unfortunately, like Bigfoot, myths seldom die.......still, better to light a candle than curse the darkness.

Good job.


------->>>>>>>>>>>>>>gene tausk
SFS
Study Group Leader - ARMA Houston Southside

[JeanryChandler]

In the article, in the section discussing the myth of the persistent use of Sword and Shield, you mention the use of two weapon forms such as Sword and Mace, for example.

I have heard second hand anecdotes of this type of thing, but have yet to find any hard evidence of two weapon fighting except for sword and dagger. I wonder if you know of any sources which describe the use of a sword and a shorter but not dagger short weapon, if you will, including maces, axes, shorter swords, and etc.

Jr

[Jonathan Scott]

I'm sorry if this is slightly off topic, but it is a misconception, at least at first glance it seems to be.
I've heard a lot of myths about claymores. I have a friend who agrees that longswords are well designed and balanced, but seems to think claymores (well maybe scottish greatsword is a better term...I'm talking about the two handed ones anyways) are not designed to really cut well. He claims they were left blunt Historically (as opposed to a modern blunt claymore intended for use in the theatrical division or for merely display purposes) and were heavy, not easily wielded, "bashing" weapons.Anyways, I heard "sword" and "heavy and unwieldy" in one sentence and warning lights lit off in my head thinking "sword myth! gotta disprove it!". Because if a sword is barely useable and doesn't hold an edge or taper to a good thrusting point, then what's the point of it Being a sword? (no pun intended) Also, my friend also seemed to think a bashing blow would "hurt" more than a clean cut from a sharp sword...that sounded kinda strange. Like you wouldn't actually feel a blade going through (or not feel it as much as a bludgeoning blow), or have one of those movie invention dramatic pauses before something on a person (equilibrium says it all) falls off.
Aynways, if anyone could enlighten me on some basic general information (some weights, sizes, uses, etc)on two handed scottish greatsword "claymores", I'd highly appreciate it.