Names and Features

An aid to identifying and naming the significant features of knives and swords which are used in classification, evaluation, and ethnographic study.

Nomenclature  and classifications are useful concepts for collectors and ethnographers, but it should be remembered that the important features of edged weapons, their names, and what "type" they are depends not only on observable features of design and decoration as it does on the culture and language of the people who made and use them. There is frequently no agreement on what is "correct" because it depends on who is having the discussion and for what purpose.

I have collected here useful terms, names, types, classes and so forth but these should only be used as a starting point for your own study. 

You may also find useful information for identification in the Form and Design section.



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