Archive for June, 2010
If you are pressed for money like a lot of us are and would like to become involved with a reenactment group or start a collection of historical weapons, why not consider buying a dirk, main gauche or dagger? These types of historical weapons sell for much less than a true museum replica sword or a first quality battle ready sword.
These smaller dirks, and daggers sell for sometimes well under a $100.00. If the blade is made by a reputable manufacturer such as Windlass or CAS/Hanwei, you can be assured of getting a quality weapon that is historically accurate and accepted by reenactment societies. Also, if you are a collector or just interested in a historical costume sword, Denix (the safe weapon-cannot be sharpened), Art Gladius or Armaduras manufactures replica pieces for just that purpose.
The dirk and sgian dubh are most closely associated with the Scots. You can purchase a dirk now and later on add the sword to your collection as both were employed by the Scottish warrior in sword fighting. If you are a fan of the Renaissance, the Renaissance dagger or main gauche was used with the rapier. Even the Vikings used a dagger or scramasax.
Don’t let finances hold you back from pursuing your historical hobby. Strap on a dagger and head to your reenactment or fair!
The Middle Ages were one of the darkest periods in world history - rife with disease, poverty and human cruelty. The previously enlightened civilizations of Rome and Constantinople—and their legendary armies of soldiers in Roman armor—had fallen victim to the bubonic plague, rampaging barbarian hordes and dangerous superstition. Few people could be said to enjoy life during this era: kings and land barons had it pretty good, but what about all the illiterate peasants forced to grind out a subsistence lifestyle?
Monks and other members of the clergy were often the only ones afforded a chance to learn. Of all the people alive in Europe between 700 and 1100 AD, most were unable to read and write. Monks and some enlightened kings were the rare exception, and they kept the light of logic and reason burning for future generations.
When most people think of the Renaissance, they contemplate the reemergence of the arts, literature and intellectual pursuits. And while these elements were certainly at the core of the Renaissance, war was still commonplace. To that end, a variety of armor and weaponry emerged during this era.
Although all of these innovations are now antiquated, they still can serve as unique décor items. A helmet or suit of armor is the perfect accent piece for a den or home library. Simple pieces, such as a Renaissance dagger our doublet, can be placed upon a mantle or as an accent piece on a coffee table.