

These swords can be wielded by one hand or by both hands. The blades of the Scottish medieval arming swords were crafted from high-quality iron and steel. As the influence of the Celts and Picts faded, Scottish swordsmiths started using similar techniques utilized by their English and other European counterparts. The design of the Scottish swords changed during this period, especially in the Dark Ages. These weapons were made from iron and have double-edged blades with lengths that range from 25.5-35 in (70-90 cm) long. The Viking swords originated from the Scandinavian Vikings. This is evidenced by the huge amount of swords collected from the graveyard mounds in the country. The first medieval swords that were used widely in Scotland were the Viking swords. Due to their wide usage, these swords influenced the latter versions of two-handed Scottish swords. The early medieval types of swords brought by foreign influence – Įarly medieval swords did not originate in Scotland but were mostly used in the country during the Middle Ages (9th-15th centuries). These swords are usually around 23.5-25 in (60-65 cm) long. Oftentimes, its edges are sharp, but some variations were found to have blunt edges. Pictish swords were crafted from iron and are double-edged with its blade wider at the neck and then tightened at the edge. It is a proven warfare tool used for slashing and stabbing. These swords were used by Scotland warriors branded with white and blue colors, achieved by applying woad (a European plant belonging to the cabbage family) on their skins. Later, around 500 BC, slight modifications to the Celtic sword were made, giving rise to the Pictish sword. Pictish Scottish SwordĪn artist’s depiction of the Pictish sword – The average length of Celtic Scottish swords were recorded to be around 27.5-29.5 in (70-75 cm) long. Celtic swords were also known for various nobilities who used it. This sword allowed the effective utilization of its wielder’s fighting capabilities either on foot or in mounted warfare. However, these were slowly being replaced by iron longswords.Ī perfect example of these longswords is the Celtic sword, the earliest sword type that closely resembled the Scottish swords known today. During this time, bronze shortswords were still in production.

Celtic Scottish SwordĪ Celtic sword with a distinct pommel, handle and guard – Īround 750 BC, Scotland welcomed the Iron Age, where iron was a bountiful resource utilized even in sword production.

Some variations of the sword were those that had gold ornaments, mostly possessed by the early nobility. Its length may span from 12-15.5 in (30-40 cm) long. Most often, these bronze swords were crafted with a wide blade that tightens at the tip. These swords were also used for warfare along with other religious and ceremonial purposes. Later, it was slowly produced in larger sizes. These swords were first used as regular agricultural knives. It would usually have a fuller or two to help lighten the blade.An artist’s depiction of a Scottish bronze sword dated around 2000 BC – Īccording to records, bronze swords, the earliest sword type that originated in Scotland, were dated around 2000 BC. Next, the spatha would replace the gladius. For its hilt, the crossguard is about the same width as the blade. This sword usually has a straight, double-edged blade with a tapered tip. More specifically, the gladius was in use from the 3 rd century BC to the 3 rd century AD. What were the swords of the Romans?Ī couple of the most popular Roman swords were the spatha and the gladius. The legacy of their sword designs would heavily influence swords in the early medieval period. Their swords are important for context surrounding medieval swords. Let’s begin with the most popular swords of the Romans. Have you ever wondered how European swords evolved from the time of the Romans to late-medieval mercenaries? In this post, we briefly cover a quick history of the different sword designs and styles of the Middle Ages. Women’s Medieval & Renaissance Footwear.
