Pride of place
Sporting Gun|May 2023
Robert Morgan on the enduring fascination and passion the Welsh sword has inspired over generations
Robert Morgan
Pride of place

For centuries, this sword has been one of the most fundamental and symbolic weapons in the history of warfare. From the legendary swords of ancient Greece and Rome to the medieval longswords of Europe, swords have been used by warriors to defend their lands, honour their codes and showcase their martial prowess. Among the many swords that have graced the pages of history, the Welsh sword stands out as a symbol of strength, courage and heritage.

The Welsh sword, also known as the Cymric sword, was the weapon of choice for Welsh warriors during the Middle Ages. It was a long, straight and double-edged leaf-shaped sword, with a hilt made of wood, bone or ivory, and a pommel often adorned with intricate designs or engravings. The blade was typically between 30 to 36in in length and weighed around 2.5lb, which meant it was formidable in the hands of a skilled warrior.

Sharp 

One of the most notable features of the Welsh sword was its sharpness. Unlike many other swords of its time, the Welsh sword was known for its razor-sharp edge. It was deadly in close combat.

The blade was also well balanced, allowing for quick and precise strikes, as well as powerful swings that could cleave through armour and bone.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

MORE STORIES FROM SPORTING GUNView all
Thermal spectrum
Sporting Gun

Thermal spectrum

Paul Austin explores both ends of the thermal market with latest high-end release from Zeiss alongside a surprising entry-level offering from Xinfrared

time-read
6 mins  |
August 2023
Roe, rucks and new ground
Sporting Gun

Roe, rucks and new ground

Jon Snowdon and his team have much to keep them busy and a new tool to help them

time-read
4 mins  |
August 2023
Tales from a lifetime of foxing
Sporting Gun

Tales from a lifetime of foxing

Join Mike Powell as he explores the evolving world of fox shooting, drawing from a career that spans seven decades

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2023
Fox rot about Charlie
Sporting Gun

Fox rot about Charlie

Patrick Hook responds to claims that fox numbers are dangerously on the wane

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2023
The sniff of success
Sporting Gun

The sniff of success

Join Ryan Kay as he navigates the fascinating dynamic between a handler and their canine companion

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2023
Adventures of Nick & Ted
Sporting Gun

Adventures of Nick & Ted

A new chapter in the histories of Sporting Gun and Sporting Shooter has Nick Ridley reflecting on the dogs he has trained over the years he has been associated with the magazines

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2023
The problem: Inflammation in the nervous system
Sporting Gun

The problem: Inflammation in the nervous system

Vet's advice

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2023
Gundogs Q&A
Sporting Gun

Gundogs Q&A

No problem goes unsolved as Sporting Gun puts your questions to the gundog experts

time-read
4 mins  |
August 2023
Stop-start!
Sporting Gun

Stop-start!

Fran Ardley continues her training tips on disciplining your dog to the stop whistle and the exercises you need to do

time-read
3 mins  |
August 2023
Gundogs at the Game Fair
Sporting Gun

Gundogs at the Game Fair

Organising the Game Fair's prestigious gundog competitions: behind-the-scenes with Francesca Prentice

time-read
2 mins  |
August 2023