The Medieval Longsword

Osprey Weapons #74

by Neil Grant, Peter Dennis (Illustrator)

The formidable European longsword – featuring a double-edged straight blade in excess of 40in, and capable of being used with one or both hands – remains one of the most impressive and distinctive edged weapons of the late medieval era. Also known as the 'bastard' sword and the 'hand-and-a-half' sword, the longsword evolved from the war swords and great swords of the 14th century, and emerged as a battlefield weapon in the early stages of the Hundred Years' War. It went on to become a key weapon on the battlefields of late medieval Europe, creating a new system of sword fighting.

Drawing together period sources, modern technical analysis and his own experiences with the longsword, Neil Grant explores the origins, manufacture and evolving use of this iconic late-medieval edged weapon. Illustrated throughout with specially commissioned full-colour artwork and an array of period illustrations and close-up photographs, this is the enthralling story of one of late-medieval Europe's most distinctive and deadly close-combat weapons.

Genres: History

125 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 23, 2016

Reviews

[Checkman · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not quite what I was expecting. I was hoping for a bit more focus on the development of the Longsword and some of the variations across the European continent. That is there, but Mr. Grant went with a stronger focus on how the sword was used in hand-to-hand combat. I'm not a larper (live action role player) or a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism so detailed descriptions of the various schools of sword fighting don't hold as much interest for me. Regardless the book adheres to Osprey's usual high standards and is still a visual treat and informative for what it is.

[Adam McPhee · Rating 3 out of 5]

very cool

[Ron · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent basic history of the longsword and its evolution. Useful research for writers of historical fiction and fantasy. I'd like to have seen more about its evolution from Viking/Saxon blades to its medieval form but such information is mentioned only in passing. (Osprey needs another volume covering swords of the 900-1300 era.) I have the Kindle edition and illustrations are not the best. Many are from vintage fechtbuecher and while interesting, they're not the easiest to interpret, and I'd also like to have seen contemporary photos with actors wielding longswords and demonstrating moves. Information on the variety of techniques and situations longswords were used in was interesting plus the restrictions (or lack thereof) on use in tournaments, duels, and non-military scenarios was often surprising. Good information on construction of of scabbards, care of blades, and the effects of water and blood (!) on corrosion plus the wear and tear of combat--very important things often ignored by fiction and screen writers. Glad he mentioned Hollywood's favorite trope of the impossible drawing from back-mounted scabbards.

[Sean · Rating 2 out of 5]

A basic book that gives the overview of the weapon and how it was used. Holds nothing new for anyone who has done even a passing study of the longsword, but may have something to offer a total newcomer.