No one knows when the first bow and arrow appeared, but it’s safe to say that men and women have been using the archery complex–bow, string, arrow, fletching, and arrowhead–for at least 20,000 years. Used to provide both food and protection, the bow and arrow has always been an interesting and effective weapon.From the stick bow to the crossbow, Archery showcases the many types of methods and tools used in this fascinating discipline. A comprehensive history of the bow and arrow, along with the full-color images in this lively compendium, will enthrall expert and novice collectors alike. Today’s archers will learn about the world’s first fighting tools, like the atlatl, or Australian spear, and the especially destructive iron-tipped arrows used by the men of classical civilizations. In addition, they’ll refresh their knowledge of today’s archery arsenal, including excalibur crossbows and parker bows.
Archery is a complete look at a field that has fascinated us since ancient times.
Swords and other weapons with handles, or hilt weapons, were originally designed for use in melee, or confused fighting, where combatants were little more than an arm’s length apart. Wars are now often fought over much larger distances with much more elaborate methods, but for thousands of years swords, knives, daggers, machetes, axes, and other blades were the weapons of choice in any conflict. Even today, infantryman carry some sort of knife into battle.
Swords & Hilt Weapons is an illustrated guide to these remarkable tools. From the simple stone knives manufactured during ancient times to today’s albion swords, it offers a complete visual history for experienced swordsmen or anyone fascinated by the beautiful construction of a steel blade. Readers will learn about the anatomy of a sword–from the point, to the blade, to the grip–and the differences between one made in Central Europe and one made in Central Asia.
What’s better: a battle-axe or a bayonet? Become an expert with Swords & Hilt Weapons!
Other titles in the series are: