Sword: -Flexible in combat -Expensive -Requires constant maintenance -Requires training the sword from childhood Warhammer: -Extremely versatile -Can be bought in Home Depot -Easy to maintain -Just swing it at something until it stopped moving
Roman Catapult: -Can damage the outer wall of a barbarian settlement -Looks nifty and trendy -Classy wood finish -People will stop and stare in jealousy when you're out in public with one -Totally not gay
Covid. -Low mortality rate, but +10,000% chance to cause panic. - _lowers enemy Toilet paper by 99.99%. -Can _apparently_ be blocked by wearing a mask on your chin, while completely exposing your nose and mouth... _Apparently._
I really like how you show real weapons in the explanation (others RUclipsrs are .jpg specialists) and that clip with the skull shattering was a great way to show it in practice. More clips of the weapons being demonstrated like that would be great.
Good day, stranger! You must be new in this realm. Skal smashes all kind of objects with his choice weapons. Check out his channel! ruclips.net/channel/UC3WIohkLkH4GFoMrrWVZZFA
I would say the buckler could be more versatile in way. Specifically, the *situations* in which it would be used. I can't really see the Chinese shield being carried around on the belt to be used at a moment's notice. In modern firearms speak, we say "the best gun is the one you have when you need it." Obviously there are caveats to this, but being convenient enough to carry everyday is, in fact, a "tool" in the buckler's "toolbox."
I was also thinking there are benefits along these lines of accessibility, such as swords that are easy to manufacture or require little metal. That is of course different than how useful an individual sword is to the wielder but does have an impact on historical sword designs.
I know that in movies swords are overused compared to how common they were historically in actual battles. Polearms are regarded as the go to weapon for large battles. So my question is in which situations are swords actually the most useful weapon for the job? Close quarters fighting?
In hallways pole arms would be tricky to use... Unless you have a battalion of people with pole arms in which case no one will want to mess with you. So many factors =l
They're also good to equip your archers/early firearms people with. Marksmen/ranged troops wouldn't pull out once running out of armour, but instead join the fray as light infantry.
From the perspective of historical sword designs usually being versatile *enough* for the people using them - or evolving incrementally to fulfil changing needs - it would seem versatility is somewhat overrated. If versatility were such a heavily weighted criteria in sword design, we wouldn't see hyper-specialised designs being popular - and yet from the ottoman Pala to the classic Estoc, versatility was often eschewed for optimisation for specific tasks. There is an argument for armor advances compensating for lessened versatility in sword design, allowing for highly specialised weapons to be more viable.
And then there's weapons that work double duty or secondary as tools like bolos/machetes, and martial arts developed by commoners refined by converging-diverging succession.
Yeah, historical weapons either counter a specific tactic or technology, or serve non-combat purposes. Individual freedom takes a backseat to the emphasis on following orders, and not every soldier is highly trained.
Advanced armor is not an arguments it's the main reason for specialised weaponry the other are open space vs enclosed space and lastly specialized tactics and cheap production.
While I agree generally, the sword became pretty much a backup weapon for most of its life, with the primary weapon (for battlefields anyway) being a pole weapon or a ranged weapon. And a versatile secondary weapon is a very good thing. At least for most soldiers. It's is always good for some troops to have very specialised tools of course. But to be honest, I think it mostly comes down to personal choice. And whether you expect to have a shield.
Makes good sense. Swords in general seem to be more versatile than many other hand weapons. I suspect that is, in part, why they were popular as a sidearm for someone carrying a more specialized primary weapon (spear, lance, bow, etc).
There was a competition going on in Spain to see who the world's greatest swordsman was. The final three competitors had been chosen and were brought on stage in front of the anticipating crowd to showcase their talent. The first swordsman stepped forward causing the crowd to hush. One of the judges proceeded to release a small black fly and let it buzz around the stage. With the flick of his wrist and faster than you can blink the fly hit the ground in two pieces. The audience bursts into applause as the swordsman steps back. Next is the second swordsman turn and he faces the same challenge. The fly is released and in two swift motions he cuts the fly into four pieces. The audience is even more impressed and gives the man a standing ovation. Finally, the third swordsman takes the spotlight and another fly is released onto the stage. The swordsman takes one quick swish at the fly but it continues to fly around the stage. The audience is dumbstruck. Finally, someone from the audience speaks up: "sir... The fly is still alive." "Ah, si" replies the swordsman "but he will never be a father"
It's fun seeing Skall grow over the years. Getting over (to some degree) the katana thing, realizing he used to overstate the importance of versatility, etc.
@@Skallagrim I agree, I mean you even bought a tachi a while ago. I was referring to your personal dislike, which even that has seemed to decrease quite a bit over the years
@@Ezekiel_Allium For sure. I kinda went "sword hipster" for a while, being annoyed by the way in which people over-hype the katana. But of course that's not the sword's fault.
@@Skallagrim I really relate to that, I had a similar experience with AKs, which I'd say are fair to call the katanas of assault rifles, at least in terms of goofy overhype and claims
@F Well, I've put up quite a number of Chinese sword reviews in the past couple of months, as well as a katana and a nodachi. And there are two or three more swords from LK Chen to review.
"Versatility" is all about give and take. That chinese "buckler" is technically more "versatile", because it presents more options for use, but at the same time it's more cumbersome, limiting your movements somewhat with the other hand's weapon. Similar issue with the question with what is the "better" weapon, everything is about give and take, what drawbacks are you willing to live with to make use of the weapon's capabilities? So, which would you prefer to use, the smaller, nimbler European bucker or the larger, more protective Chinese version, or a heftier two-handed vs a more portable one-handed, or a cutting vs thrusting sword, would depend on one crucial question that I feel is often overlooked: what is your objective? There is no one-size-fits-all, if there were all swords all over the world would end up with the same design. If you want a portable, light sword, just in case you're attacked and want something to fight back, you'd pick a smaller arming-type sword. If you want a battlefield weapon, you'd choose a larger weapon, maybe not even a sword, because you want immediate lethality, it's not something you'd carry around at all times so portability isn't your main concern. The question "what is the best/most versatile weapon" should be followed by "what do you want to use it for", which is something the fanbois often forget.
So many Chinese weapons look like fantasy weapons to me, and I wonder how much of that is purely just the fact that I'm not very familiar with Chinese history, or if there are other factors. They have such interesting different ideas, but then I guess I'd have to assume they'd think the same of us. I love how incredibly "alien" our fellow humans can seem even in our globalized world.
@@Corwin256 you should save the word fantasy for Indian weapons… Chinese and European medieval weapon are similar enough considering they were developed independently…
Many Chinese weapons were products of agricultural tools, where many European ones were as well. However some weapons were the product of security forces and were developed by religious orders who didn't want to kill but to incapacitate their opponents, so nonlethal weapons are also very common in the Far East and can come in a lot of interesting forms.
@@hoathanatos6179 That's really cool. I generally think of nonlethal focus in modern contexts, even though I was aware it was always an idea. I'm definitely going to google these specialized nonlethal weapons, but I wonder if you have any particular names to share that would be fun.
Nothing to add on a technical basis, I just really enjoyed this. This kind of more martial focused video is as good as reviews or anything else. Thank you.
Imagine carrying a fucking giant stick with a axe head hammer head and spike at the end in plate armour ALL THE TIME I'm pretty sure carrying a light and nimble sword is much easier to transport and carry
I might have a good idea. I'm a beginner-intermediate bladesmith. I've been watching for a while and I've learned a lot. Could you make a video dedicated to things you think would be helpful for a bladesmith to know? It could be a compilation from past videos, or where you talk in front of the camera and show swords and pictures/clips. Things you've encountered after reviewing lots of swords. Maybe some things about the martial arts that could be useful to know. Maybe show a variety of swords and say what you liked and didn't like. Show where one did it right and another did it wrong. For example: "this handle is too big and square" "this handle is round enough and locks your hand in" "this handle is too round" "you want the pommel to be shaped like this and not this so you can perform this move comfortably" "this thing really gets in the way and makes it uncomfortable to use" "the fuller goes to far and is a potential gap for moisture" "___ kept bending because ___ (then give a few measurements, material and temper)" "this tip performs well and is durable (that one's numbers) " this blade cuts well and feels fairly nimble, it weighs __ the point of balance is __ it tapers like (blade widths, thicknesses, and cross sections)" this cuts really well, but is a bit too heavy for ___ (numbers)" "this one is very quick and still has enough cutting power (numbers)" " this one is so light it doesn't have enough cutting power (numbers)" "this one cuts really well but the edge isn't durable (thickness before micro bevel, blade thickness, width, grind, material, temper)" "this edge is really durable, but it's not as good at cutting (numbers)" "this blade cuts well and has good durability (numbers)" "here are the pros and cons and my experience with the ___ grind/construction"
Speaking of versatility: Scenario: You need to travel to the next town, on foot, during 1500c. Do you choose the buckler or that chinese thingie? Versatility is more that just the foreseen fight, ain´t it?
@@appa609 And you are going to transport that how? Remember you have equipment for the travel ahead like food, water sleeping gear etc. A buckler can hang on your belt without to much bother.
We need to keep in mind the period, the culture, the type of gear available at the time. But also the martial arts intended to be used for each weapon. As a kenjutsu/iaïjutsu practitioner, i don't want a double edged blade, i don't want a pommel, i don't want a crossguard. It will just be in the way... a disadvantage for the form and technique i've learned.
I don't like cramped hilts like a Tulwar and carrying any sword can be quite a pain, especially if there's a lot sticking out and things that can get entangled... I do like sabers and Bastard swords though. However, if it was about actual self-defense, then a shorter blade would suit me better... It's a lot depending on context and personal preferences. I for instance prefer blades with a little Heft made for slashing rather than good point control and don't get me started on various hilt designs... There are many I like and many I dislike...
@@edi9892 yeah i believe context and period are so important. Swords used to be the backup weapon on the battlefield in most culture. But times changed and it evolved to become the primary weapon.. like cavalry saber and such. They have specific design to perform better on what they're up against. And they are meant to be used in a certain way. And... they are limited by the technology and materials available at the time, in each country. Like... you can't make an European longsword in ancient japan anyway, it need a superior steel to begin with. Same thing goes for Bronze based weapon design versus Steel based weapon. But carrying an european long sword is a pain in the A.. drawing it is slow. Sure the reach will help once it's done. But i don't want it as my backup weapon on a battlefield. I don't want it as my self defense weapon on the street of a town back in the day. It's not practical enough. It's too long, it's straight.. the crossguard can be entangled in your clothes. Not for me.
@@xluca1701 Yes it is, alot... it's longer, it's straight. A Katana is curved, it's single edged. The Mune slide on the koiguchi, you can give an angle to the saya and cut in one motion. It's a lot faster to draw. Same goes with most curved and shorter blade.
The sword you pair with the buckler also adds to the versatility of said buckler. See backsword and buckler in which the buckler doesn't have to be as active or used to specifically protect the sword hand, especially with those huge English/Welsh bucklers.
When does a Sword become a Machete? When does a Machete become a cleaver? When does a cleaver become a fork? When does a fork become a spork? Questions we will never know the answer to...
A machete in particular is shorter than a sword, more similar to a long knife, and most designs have a flaring, tapered, blade in order to make it more effective at chopping into wood. A cleaver is far thicker and shorter than a machete, and frequently does not have a taper on its blade. The weight of the cleaver is for the purpose of rapidly and efficiently chopping through bone or thick/resistant meat in a quick manner. A fork is a pronged device generally without blades. A spork more resembles a spoon than a fork, having the same general scoop shape while also having notches cut into it to allow for it to grab things in a similar manner to a fork.
That little Chinese-hook-shield thingy looks neat. I still prefer the buckler (I like simplicity) but it's interesting to see another culture's attempt at a minimalist shield.
Lutel is awesome but no longer comissioning work since the swordsmith has poor health and was struggling to finish his existing workload. Great if you can pick it up second hand though, I got a customized swiss saber from lutel for 800 or so and it's a beauty. Very stong workmanship, the distill taper is not as prominent as I would like but serviceable. Profile taper is spot on and it had the half wire wrap with a fancy hand guard.
@@changl84 cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2080/1501/products/Swiss_sabre_A489_finished_2.2.JPG?v=1523140550 this is the blade I'm looking for, but with hilt like this th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.ZyNvxXGO-_4SgMaPhmFZAQHaFj?pid=Api&rs=1 though previous one'd be fine too
@@Erjad Yeah best chance is maybe to trawl the sbg marketplace forum for a second hand sword. The ones with the complex hilts and quality blades like that are hard to find unless you commission it custom from one of the other swordsmiths who knows saber work. I've never seen a place that has that kind of saber on a production line, I think the first one from the image was a custom piece from A&A. It'll run you a couple grand at least, probably not counting in a scabbard.
@@changl84 for now I'll be getting one of these www.albion-swords.com/The%20Bastard.html or www.valiant-armoury.com/collections/special-edition/products/va-132-special-edition-the-crecy-medieval-long-sword
I read that even in the Bronze Age versatility mattered. According to Robert Drews the Naue II originating in Nothern Italy was a big game changer in the Eastern Mediterranian as it was equally good for cutting and thrusting unlike the swords used prior to that and in combination with flechted light javelins brought an end to the domination of chariots on the battlefield.
The more the alteration bonuses it gives to your stats the more effective it bec... Oh, we're talking about the game Real Life? I mean the graphics are great but the gameplay of it sucks...
@@lillithyukiutacrow2532 oh pffff... The class system is complete bullcrap as well. 90% is not even viable! Best stick with the merchant that comes from a wealthy background or you are in for a tough time 😶😶
Really like the look of the "chinese hook shield" but wonder if it would be better to use if hooks slightly shorter to give user more control. Just a thought..
About 1740 somewhere in Germany there was a fencing demonstration/ show ,with large old swords', perhaps from the very last longsword fencers. A spectator of this event wrote, it looked rather impressive, but he would not change his smallsword against such a large old sword. Even under a wide Cape coat such a large sword would easyly been noticed, everybody would look at you and ask, what do you want to do? So i think, that perhaps in former times, especially in peacetime, nobody carried a too large weapon.
Versatile is also a specialization, a specialization in versatility the trade off is against other features which one can have which one can specialize to make it more effective in that area.
I’ve found that you can strike with the tip on a curved sword similar way to something like a falx so thats something curved swords can do that straight ones can’t
Hey Skall, great video. Would be interesting to also compare maces, axes and hammers as well. Also I think your buckler is really nice, and I noticed it didn't have a link in the description, do you have more information on it?
Interesting. Question, in David Weber's Honor Harrington books there is a world that came up with their own dueling / sword style traditions. The world is called Grayson and their traditional sword is described as looking like a katana with either I can't recall if it's a basket Hilt or a bell guard but it's one of those. Would a weapon like that be viable?
Please review the Dirilis Ertugrul series.......it is the most popular series featuring alot of sword fights and stuff....we would really like you to review its fight scenes and techniques and general depiction of that era
The blade geometries, weight distribution, grinds and more of those are vastly different. Besides that, many sabers already had a shorter false edge. The result is a false edge, on a saber not a falx.
I may just be showing my ignorance but why is the (pig tail?) guard on the Messer turned downwards instead of upwards? Wouldn't being upwards better help it capture an opponents blade?
Had a weird thought involving dogs and frisbees XD. Is there anything in the old manuals about someone using their buckler as a distraction by frisbeeing it at someone's head? Seems somehow less weird because it seems like it could be legitimately dangerous if it were to hit you in the face, it weighs way more, and concentrates all the force on that edge, like a blunt chakram? A weapon to surpass -metal gear- the pommel?
Regarding the one hand vs two, if versatility is viability across all potential windows for attack and defense across all combat scenarios, I would think reach is a very critical factor in versatility.
Versatility isn't necessarily about what is all integrated, but what you can make of it. Versatility, in my opinion, always starts in the mind, because someone used what they had to work with and figured out an additional use. Like, why I love prestidigitation in DnD. It is a absolute non-combat cantrip, yet I managed to weaponize it the very first time I played. It's description states, that you can light things like a candle, a torch, or a small campfire. It doesn't state anywhere, that it can only light wood or something like that, and I understand it, that the maximum size of an object you can light, is that of a small campfire, so a pair of goblin pants is technically within the parameters.
I want you to train 4-5 days per week with the Skallchion for a month or so and THEN let us know if its still too heavy haha. I don't know the exact weight, but I would venture a guess that its somewhere around "heavy enough to survive multiple battles and become a generational heirloom" and "noobs think its too heavy but they just aren't in literal combat warrior body condition."
In my opinion your kriegsmesser is your most beautiful and best overall sword and I'm glad that you think so too. Okay, you didn't say it out loud, but you seem to really prefer that weapon.
Better for me is based on reliability (which is kinda the same assuming the steel is the same) and usefulness. Useful means having more uses (versatility) or being better at its use(quicker or more damaging). So yeah, versatility is a big part of usefulness, and a big part in being “better.”
Hey Skallagrim, I would like your *personal* opinion. Which do you think is more Versatile, a European Longsword or a Katana, or do you think Skill and Knowledge are better than Versatility or go hand and hand? Great video and thanks in advance!
The best thing two full edges give you is sharpness. It's not unknown for a sword to get blunted during a battle, or more commonly a campaign, by using it. You don't even need to chip it, constant impacts on shields, helmets and people will dull it eventually. With that in mind, a double-edged sword gives you double the lifespan of the sowrd, and perhaps as importantly, should you actually chip an edge, you can turn the blade around rather than fight with the chipped side. For gou-rang, I'd not say it's comparable to buckler, except superficially. The purpose and point of a buckler is wearing it with your sword without it getting in the way, it's a sidearm shield. Gou-rang, well, isn't. What it should be compared to is small shields you're supposed to be carrying full time, something like a rotella or a targe. Most versatile weapon is probably a complex-hilted bastard sword. Use with in one hand, use it with two hands, usi it with a shield, use it on a horse, use it on foot. The obvious drawback is that a dedicated longsword or sidesword will do better at their respective niches.
Allow me to introduce you to the concept of a whetstone, where, over the course of a "campaign" one could sharpen their sword, as one does with all blades.
As Skallagrim hinted, versatility is one quirk a weapon can have. It is debatable if it is the best to maximise, but still one of many quirks. During a fight there are other thinks to consider like range, weight and balance; not considering gears like shield or armor. Also a design can be objectively worse than another, but maybe that made the tool easier and faster to produce and requiring less material for a mass production. Outside-combat and historical factors must still be considerded when judging a weapon.
![Noob To Max With DRAGON REWORK In Blox Fruits [FULL MOVIE]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LnBMOinoOvA/mqdefault.jpg)
The most versatile weapon is a hammer. Because then every problem looks like a nail.
A prefere a axe with a hammer. You can even build shit with it
1) For every task you need to use the appropriate tool.
2) The right tool is always a hammer.
3) Everything can be used as a hammer.
Does that include your fingers or thumb
@@rockylauffer8756 Why do you think there are finger nails?
If by versatile you mean it’s one function fits all needs then yeah. But it only has one function. Smash!
Sword:
-Flexible in combat
-Expensive
-Requires constant maintenance
-Requires training the sword from childhood
Warhammer:
-Extremely versatile
-Can be bought in Home Depot
-Easy to maintain
-Just swing it at something until it stopped moving
Roman Catapult:
-Can damage the outer wall of a barbarian settlement
-Looks nifty and trendy
-Classy wood finish
-People will stop and stare in jealousy when you're out in public with one
-Totally not gay
Big Axe:
-very versatile
-can be used to fell trees as well as enemies
-easily bought
-sturdy af
-also a hammer if you turn it around
Nuke:
-Easy to use
-Insta kill
-Cant be blocked
-Can be really heavy
-Can kill 1000 enemys
-Can insta destroy enemy castle
Covid.
-Low mortality rate, but +10,000% chance to cause panic.
- _lowers enemy Toilet paper by 99.99%.
-Can _apparently_ be blocked by wearing a mask on your chin, while completely exposing your nose and mouth... _Apparently._
Potty training my sword was hard ngl
I really like how you show real weapons in the explanation (others RUclipsrs are .jpg specialists) and that clip with the skull shattering was a great way to show it in practice. More clips of the weapons being demonstrated like that would be great.
Good day, stranger! You must be new in this realm. Skal smashes all kind of objects with his choice weapons. Check out his channel!
ruclips.net/channel/UC3WIohkLkH4GFoMrrWVZZFA
I would say the buckler could be more versatile in way. Specifically, the *situations* in which it would be used. I can't really see the Chinese shield being carried around on the belt to be used at a moment's notice. In modern firearms speak, we say "the best gun is the one you have when you need it." Obviously there are caveats to this, but being convenient enough to carry everyday is, in fact, a "tool" in the buckler's "toolbox."
I was also thinking there are benefits along these lines of accessibility, such as swords that are easy to manufacture or require little metal. That is of course different than how useful an individual sword is to the wielder but does have an impact on historical sword designs.
point for the sax, which in all means was an edc. Tool, weapon and fashion starement.
I know that in movies swords are overused compared to how common they were historically in actual battles. Polearms are regarded as the go to weapon for large battles. So my question is in which situations are swords actually the most useful weapon for the job? Close quarters fighting?
In hallways pole arms would be tricky to use... Unless you have a battalion of people with pole arms in which case no one will want to mess with you. So many factors =l
It would be tough to carry a pole weapon everywhere, so swords would have made for good self-defence or EDC weapons
They're also good to equip your archers/early firearms people with. Marksmen/ranged troops wouldn't pull out once running out of armour, but instead join the fray as light infantry.
@@runakovacs4759 I assume you mean "running out of ammo"? Autocorrect can be tricky sometimes
In a village full of unarmored presents that don't want to pay taxes.
From the perspective of historical sword designs usually being versatile *enough* for the people using them - or evolving incrementally to fulfil changing needs - it would seem versatility is somewhat overrated. If versatility were such a heavily weighted criteria in sword design, we wouldn't see hyper-specialised designs being popular - and yet from the ottoman Pala to the classic Estoc, versatility was often eschewed for optimisation for specific tasks.
There is an argument for armor advances compensating for lessened versatility in sword design, allowing for highly specialised weapons to be more viable.
And then there's weapons that work double duty or secondary as tools like bolos/machetes, and martial arts developed by commoners refined by converging-diverging succession.
Yeah, historical weapons either counter a specific tactic or technology, or serve non-combat purposes. Individual freedom takes a backseat to the emphasis on following orders, and not every soldier is highly trained.
Advanced armor is not an arguments it's the main reason for specialised weaponry the other are open space vs enclosed space and lastly specialized tactics and cheap production.
While I agree generally, the sword became pretty much a backup weapon for most of its life, with the primary weapon (for battlefields anyway) being a pole weapon or a ranged weapon. And a versatile secondary weapon is a very good thing. At least for most soldiers. It's is always good for some troops to have very specialised tools of course. But to be honest, I think it mostly comes down to personal choice. And whether you expect to have a shield.
I didn't understand a word of that, but it sounds interesting.
So to simplify it in Matt Easton talk: context.
Yes. Context is the reason why the simple dagger is the most effective weapon in all of history.
Makes good sense. Swords in general seem to be more versatile than many other hand weapons. I suspect that is, in part, why they were popular as a sidearm for someone carrying a more specialized primary weapon (spear, lance, bow, etc).
I feel like this is just an excuse for Skall to show off his sword collection
I think if that were the case, the video would at least be an hour and a half long.
My thought too after seeing the 6th sword.
as long as i can see the Kriegsmesser i do not care how hard he shows of his swords :D
that’s like the whole channel
Does he NEED an excuse?
There was a competition going on in Spain to see who the world's greatest swordsman was. The final three competitors had been chosen and were brought on stage in front of the anticipating crowd to showcase their talent. The first swordsman stepped forward causing the crowd to hush. One of the judges proceeded to release a small black fly and let it buzz around the stage. With the flick of his wrist and faster than you can blink the fly hit the ground in two pieces. The audience bursts into applause as the swordsman steps back. Next is the second swordsman turn and he faces the same challenge. The fly is released and in two swift motions he cuts the fly into four pieces. The audience is even more impressed and gives the man a standing ovation. Finally, the third swordsman takes the spotlight and another fly is released onto the stage. The swordsman takes one quick swish at the fly but it continues to fly around the stage. The audience is dumbstruck. Finally, someone from the audience speaks up: "sir... The fly is still alive." "Ah, si" replies the swordsman "but he will never be a father"
This is both brilliant and funny
@@S_Warden Thanks :)
Yes!, nerd talk time!
There could not have been a more appropriate top comment.
Nice.
Hey Skallagrim, did you know that an mobile game called "Magic Woods" is using footage from your videos in their ads?
woe that sucks, i hope he sees that
It's fun seeing Skall grow over the years. Getting over (to some degree) the katana thing, realizing he used to overstate the importance of versatility, etc.
What do you mean, "to some degree"? I honestly think I'm quite fair to katanas these days. :)
@@Skallagrim I agree, I mean you even bought a tachi a while ago. I was referring to your personal dislike, which even that has seemed to decrease quite a bit over the years
@@Ezekiel_Allium For sure. I kinda went "sword hipster" for a while, being annoyed by the way in which people over-hype the katana. But of course that's not the sword's fault.
@@Skallagrim I really relate to that, I had a similar experience with AKs, which I'd say are fair to call the katanas of assault rifles, at least in terms of goofy overhype and claims
@F Well, I've put up quite a number of Chinese sword reviews in the past couple of months, as well as a katana and a nodachi. And there are two or three more swords from LK Chen to review.
"Versatility" is all about give and take. That chinese "buckler" is technically more "versatile", because it presents more options for use, but at the same time it's more cumbersome, limiting your movements somewhat with the other hand's weapon. Similar issue with the question with what is the "better" weapon, everything is about give and take, what drawbacks are you willing to live with to make use of the weapon's capabilities? So, which would you prefer to use, the smaller, nimbler European bucker or the larger, more protective Chinese version, or a heftier two-handed vs a more portable one-handed, or a cutting vs thrusting sword, would depend on one crucial question that I feel is often overlooked: what is your objective? There is no one-size-fits-all, if there were all swords all over the world would end up with the same design. If you want a portable, light sword, just in case you're attacked and want something to fight back, you'd pick a smaller arming-type sword. If you want a battlefield weapon, you'd choose a larger weapon, maybe not even a sword, because you want immediate lethality, it's not something you'd carry around at all times so portability isn't your main concern. The question "what is the best/most versatile weapon" should be followed by "what do you want to use it for", which is something the fanbois often forget.
I've loved seeing the evolution of your views and understanding. Another great video, Skall.
Again, that Chinese "hook shield" is pretty badass for a fantasy looking real weapon. Atop its appearance, it's really useful.
So many Chinese weapons look like fantasy weapons to me, and I wonder how much of that is purely just the fact that I'm not very familiar with Chinese history, or if there are other factors. They have such interesting different ideas, but then I guess I'd have to assume they'd think the same of us. I love how incredibly "alien" our fellow humans can seem even in our globalized world.
For me the king of "fantasy" type of weapons are the Indians ones, they had a lot of fancy weapons.
@@Corwin256 you should save the word fantasy for Indian weapons…
Chinese and European medieval weapon are similar enough considering they were developed independently…
Many Chinese weapons were products of agricultural tools, where many European ones were as well. However some weapons were the product of security forces and were developed by religious orders who didn't want to kill but to incapacitate their opponents, so nonlethal weapons are also very common in the Far East and can come in a lot of interesting forms.
@@hoathanatos6179 That's really cool. I generally think of nonlethal focus in modern contexts, even though I was aware it was always an idea. I'm definitely going to google these specialized nonlethal weapons, but I wonder if you have any particular names to share that would be fun.
Nothing to add on a technical basis, I just really enjoyed this. This kind of more martial focused video is as good as reviews or anything else. Thank you.
I thought the most versatile weapon ever invented was the pole axe.
You can carry sword around everywhere, you can't do so with a polleaxe.
@@falconpower3624 *I'LL DO AS I DAMM PLEASE*
@@falconpower3624 is that a challenge?
Most versatile battlefield weapon
Imagine carrying a fucking giant stick with a axe head hammer head and spike at the end in plate armour ALL THE TIME I'm pretty sure carrying a light and nimble sword is much easier to transport and carry
Thank you for the entertainment Skall, it's always interesting to listen to you rambling about nerdy stuff!
Awesome comparisons, super humble! Honestly, I'm very envious of your collection.
Always a pleasure to watch :)
Nice to see you having fun.
Hay Scal I'd really like to see a review of swords that could also be used in other ways like brush cutting, wood chopping etc.
Thank you for your hard work putting this together.
is that a new intro? It looks freaking epic!
It's an older one. :)
@@Skallagrim Ah, well I must be too new to have realized.
Next time you could talk about versatility in shields and bucklers, it would be very interesting to watch a video about it!
Very cool video. Like seeing videos of historical weapons and things.
from someone who had only ever bashed his brothers with hockey stick swords I love all your demonstrations and explanations - thanks
Were the hockey sticks made of glorious nippon steel?
@@weswolever7477 cooper it was the bronze age...
Your sword collection my dude,
It's freaking legendary!
I'd like to see a video testing all sorts of unorthodox strikes, like blade spine strikes, blade flats, handle strikes and what not.
I might have a good idea. I'm a beginner-intermediate bladesmith. I've been watching for a while and I've learned a lot. Could you make a video dedicated to things you think would be helpful for a bladesmith to know? It could be a compilation from past videos, or where you talk in front of the camera and show swords and pictures/clips. Things you've encountered after reviewing lots of swords. Maybe some things about the martial arts that could be useful to know. Maybe show a variety of swords and say what you liked and didn't like. Show where one did it right and another did it wrong. For example: "this handle is too big and square" "this handle is round enough and locks your hand in" "this handle is too round" "you want the pommel to be shaped like this and not this so you can perform this move comfortably" "this thing really gets in the way and makes it uncomfortable to use" "the fuller goes to far and is a potential gap for moisture" "___ kept bending because ___ (then give a few measurements, material and temper)" "this tip performs well and is durable (that one's numbers) " this blade cuts well and feels fairly nimble, it weighs __ the point of balance is __ it tapers like (blade widths, thicknesses, and cross sections)" this cuts really well, but is a bit too heavy for ___ (numbers)" "this one is very quick and still has enough cutting power (numbers)" " this one is so light it doesn't have enough cutting power (numbers)" "this one cuts really well but the edge isn't durable (thickness before micro bevel, blade thickness, width, grind, material, temper)" "this edge is really durable, but it's not as good at cutting (numbers)" "this blade cuts well and has good durability (numbers)" "here are the pros and cons and my experience with the ___ grind/construction"
Speaking of versatility: Scenario: You need to travel to the next town, on foot, during 1500c. Do you choose the buckler or that chinese thingie? Versatility is more that just the foreseen fight, ain´t it?
Can i take the grip out of the buckler and use it as a hat?
I'd get a bigger shield. Lest one guy with a bow overcomes me.
@@appa609 And you are going to transport that how? Remember you have equipment for the travel ahead like food, water sleeping gear etc. A buckler can hang on your belt without to much bother.
@@RiderOftheNorth1968 targe and scottish broadsword
@@RiderOftheNorth1968Tie it over my head. Also doubles as an umbrella.
I really like this video topic! I want to have a katana with the same blade shape like your two-handed messer.
We need to keep in mind the period, the culture, the type of gear available at the time.
But also the martial arts intended to be used for each weapon.
As a kenjutsu/iaïjutsu practitioner, i don't want a double edged blade, i don't want a pommel, i don't want a crossguard. It will just be in the way... a disadvantage for the form and technique i've learned.
I don't like cramped hilts like a Tulwar and carrying any sword can be quite a pain, especially if there's a lot sticking out and things that can get entangled... I do like sabers and Bastard swords though. However, if it was about actual self-defense, then a shorter blade would suit me better...
It's a lot depending on context and personal preferences. I for instance prefer blades with a little Heft made for slashing rather than good point control and don't get me started on various hilt designs... There are many I like and many I dislike...
@@edi9892 yeah i believe context and period are so important. Swords used to be the backup weapon on the battlefield in most culture. But times changed and it evolved to become the primary weapon.. like cavalry saber and such.
They have specific design to perform better on what they're up against. And they are meant to be used in a certain way.
And... they are limited by the technology and materials available at the time, in each country.
Like... you can't make an European longsword in ancient japan anyway, it need a superior steel to begin with. Same thing goes for Bronze based weapon design versus Steel based weapon.
But carrying an european long sword is a pain in the A.. drawing it is slow. Sure the reach will help once it's done. But i don't want it as my backup weapon on a battlefield. I don't want it as my self defense weapon on the street of a town back in the day.
It's not practical enough.
It's too long, it's straight.. the crossguard can be entangled in your clothes. Not for me.
@@SenTenshi
A longsword wouldn't really that much slower to draw than a Katana...
@@xluca1701 Yes it is, alot... it's longer, it's straight. A Katana is curved, it's single edged. The Mune slide on the koiguchi, you can give an angle to the saya and cut in one motion.
It's a lot faster to draw. Same goes with most curved and shorter blade.
Fair enough. Let's be real, we're practicing with thousand year old weapons. If we wanted efficiency, We'd just use M27s...
Had this same conversation the other day. But it was Knife (Single edge) vs Dagger (Double edge).
holy shit, segment breakdowns! amazing!
The future is now, apparently.
The sword you pair with the buckler also adds to the versatility of said buckler. See backsword and buckler in which the buckler doesn't have to be as active or used to specifically protect the sword hand, especially with those huge English/Welsh bucklers.
Hey awesome! We got back some background that looks like Powerwolf stage backdrop!
I absolutely love the look of that Liuye Dao. It's a beautiful sword.
Love your videos brother!
When does a Sword become a Machete? When does a Machete become a cleaver? When does a cleaver become a fork? When does a fork become a spork? Questions we will never know the answer to...
Machetes are way shorter and thinner, for a start
Swords and spoons are really the same. Change my mind.
Dremsilruth I already agree though
A machete in particular is shorter than a sword, more similar to a long knife, and most designs have a flaring, tapered, blade in order to make it more effective at chopping into wood.
A cleaver is far thicker and shorter than a machete, and frequently does not have a taper on its blade. The weight of the cleaver is for the purpose of rapidly and efficiently chopping through bone or thick/resistant meat in a quick manner.
A fork is a pronged device generally without blades.
A spork more resembles a spoon than a fork, having the same general scoop shape while also having notches cut into it to allow for it to grab things in a similar manner to a fork.
Nice and very informative video, just watched it all.
In a nutshell, balanced speed and damage stats.
haha video game reference i get it
More like min max
Honestly all you need is a weight around one kilo and some durability , everything else can be sacrificed for speed .
That little Chinese-hook-shield thingy looks neat. I still prefer the buckler (I like simplicity) but it's interesting to see another culture's attempt at a minimalist shield.
how are you doing? i recall you had an accident or something a long time ago. you seem to be well. im very happy
Great explanations!
Lately I'm absolutely eyevalling the swiss saber. I've heard Lutel is right choice here. what do you think ?
Lutel is awesome but no longer comissioning work since the swordsmith has poor health and was struggling to finish his existing workload. Great if you can pick it up second hand though, I got a customized swiss saber from lutel for 800 or so and it's a beauty.
Very stong workmanship, the distill taper is not as prominent as I would like but serviceable. Profile taper is spot on and it had the half wire wrap with a fancy hand guard.
@@changl84 cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/2080/1501/products/Swiss_sabre_A489_finished_2.2.JPG?v=1523140550 this is the blade I'm looking for, but with hilt like this th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.ZyNvxXGO-_4SgMaPhmFZAQHaFj?pid=Api&rs=1
though previous one'd be fine too
@@Erjad Yeah best chance is maybe to trawl the sbg marketplace forum for a second hand sword. The ones with the complex hilts and quality blades like that are hard to find unless you commission it custom from one of the other swordsmiths who knows saber work. I've never seen a place that has that kind of saber on a production line, I think the first one from the image was a custom piece from A&A. It'll run you a couple grand at least, probably not counting in a scabbard.
@@changl84 for now I'll be getting one of these www.albion-swords.com/The%20Bastard.html
or www.valiant-armoury.com/collections/special-edition/products/va-132-special-edition-the-crecy-medieval-long-sword
The Skalchion looks amazing
I read that even in the Bronze Age versatility mattered. According to Robert Drews the Naue II originating in Nothern Italy was a big game changer in the Eastern Mediterranian as it was equally good for cutting and thrusting unlike the swords used prior to that and in combination with flechted light javelins brought an end to the domination of chariots on the battlefield.
The more the alteration bonuses it gives to your stats the more effective it bec...
Oh, we're talking about the game Real Life? I mean the graphics are great but the gameplay of it sucks...
Completely unbalanced economy and poor npc ai as well =l
@@SyntheticFuture not to mention the UNGODLY complex social systems
Also the loot droped is mostly not worth the effort. =)
@@lillithyukiutacrow2532 oh pffff... The class system is complete bullcrap as well. 90% is not even viable! Best stick with the merchant that comes from a wealthy background or you are in for a tough time 😶😶
@@SyntheticFuture _Pathetic Human Main._
Really like the look of the "chinese hook shield" but wonder if it would be better to use if hooks slightly shorter to give user more control. Just a thought..
Hey grim would really appreciate if u make a video on push dagger and a comparison between the push dagger and a karambit... thanks
Now this is very interesting and entertaining I enjoyed this
(this was my face the entire video)
Me too
My profile pic was my face during the video
@@johnisaiah985 Yes. I've got it...
@@peeeter4337 ah OK haha
But can a sword parry a _gun?_
In anime
In anime
"In anime"
"In anime"
If you believe in your self!
About 1740 somewhere in Germany there was a fencing demonstration/ show ,with large old swords', perhaps from the very last longsword fencers. A spectator of this event wrote, it looked rather impressive, but he would not change his smallsword against such a large old sword. Even under a wide Cape coat such a large sword would easyly been noticed, everybody would look at you and ask, what do you want to do? So i think, that perhaps in former times, especially in peacetime, nobody carried a too large weapon.
7:50 First Wushu Dao form I learned had moves where you put your off hand on the spine like that.
Oh wow, that intro. Been a while...
What really defines the versality of a sword is- whether its pommel can be unscrewed)))
Great video!!
Versatility is a great thing ofc, but let's not forget that Albion Gallowglass looks so fricking sick what makes it the best sword
Versatile is also a specialization, a specialization in versatility the trade off is against other features which one can have which one can specialize to make it more effective in that area.
Should look at the Egyptian Khopesh sword, very versatile
Think you can give us an in-depth explanation on dual wielding swords.
I’ve found that you can strike with the tip on a curved sword similar way to something like a falx so thats something curved swords can do that straight ones can’t
Hey Skall, great video. Would be interesting to also compare maces, axes and hammers as well.
Also I think your buckler is really nice, and I noticed it didn't have a link in the description, do you have more information on it?
All my comments are jokes . I really like this fellas vids . I also like the slingshot channel . Let me show you it’s features
Very nice video, hope your day is swell!
Skall you are like combination of all my nerd friends from the 90´ love to watch this shit!
Pretty nice video, thx mate!
Maybe is the camera angle, but is the faux twisted on transition of the blade to the hilt?
Your videos are perfect!👏
Interesting. Question, in David Weber's Honor Harrington books there is a world that came up with their own dueling / sword style traditions. The world is called Grayson and their traditional sword is described as looking like a katana with either I can't recall if it's a basket Hilt or a bell guard but it's one of those. Would a weapon like that be viable?
Please review the Dirilis Ertugrul series.......it is the most popular series featuring alot of sword fights and stuff....we would really like you to review its fight scenes and techniques and general depiction of that era
Here's an idea: a curved double-bladed sword. Basically a cross between a saber and falx, sounds very useful
The blade geometries, weight distribution, grinds and more of those are vastly different. Besides that, many sabers already had a shorter false edge. The result is a false edge, on a saber not a falx.
I may just be showing my ignorance but why is the (pig tail?) guard on the Messer turned downwards instead of upwards? Wouldn't being upwards better help it capture an opponents blade?
Had a weird thought involving dogs and frisbees XD. Is there anything in the old manuals about someone using their buckler as a distraction by frisbeeing it at someone's head? Seems somehow less weird because it seems like it could be legitimately dangerous if it were to hit you in the face, it weighs way more, and concentrates all the force on that edge, like a blunt chakram?
A weapon to surpass -metal gear- the pommel?
The Katana was my favorite sword, now its the Messer :)
Will you please try to review a balisong sword?
getting some extra functions does require to sacrifice performance in other areas. That can be applied to many things.
Regarding the one hand vs two, if versatility is viability across all potential windows for attack and defense across all combat scenarios, I would think reach is a very critical factor in versatility.
May You please reveiw the cold steel smallsword?
Use kenjutsu style half swording on the messers. It works perfectly
Versatility isn't necessarily about what is all integrated, but what you can make of it.
Versatility, in my opinion, always starts in the mind, because someone used what they had to work with and figured out an additional use.
Like, why I love prestidigitation in DnD.
It is a absolute non-combat cantrip, yet I managed to weaponize it the very first time I played. It's description states, that you can light things like a candle, a torch, or a small campfire. It doesn't state anywhere, that it can only light wood or something like that, and I understand it, that the maximum size of an object you can light, is that of a small campfire, so a pair of goblin pants is technically within the parameters.
Is there any relevance to hitting armor with the spine of single edge blade versus edge
Can you even block a Kriegsmesser with something like a dagger ?
think we could ever get you to try out an italian cinquedea on camera?
5:49 what did you hit? Is it okay?
I want you to train 4-5 days per week with the Skallchion for a month or so and THEN let us know if its still too heavy haha. I don't know the exact weight, but I would venture a guess that its somewhere around "heavy enough to survive multiple battles and become a generational heirloom" and "noobs think its too heavy but they just aren't in literal combat warrior body condition."
In my opinion your kriegsmesser is your most beautiful and best overall sword and I'm glad that you think so too. Okay, you didn't say it out loud, but you seem to really prefer that weapon.
Does a big old pommel stop the sword sliding out your hand if the grip is all bloody and slick?
If I made one of those scythes I was talking about would you test it?
Sure
@@oscallibur5597 well...I mean...thanks but I was talking about skall😅
@@nullsnaggle5198 i am pretty sure he will. He always welcome this types of gifts.
@@junichiroyamashita ok thanks😛
The Chinese gouxiang is a specialize shield to against a common pole arm that time(ji)
Better for me is based on reliability (which is kinda the same assuming the steel is the same) and usefulness. Useful means having more uses (versatility) or being better at its use(quicker or more damaging). So yeah, versatility is a big part of usefulness, and a big part in being “better.”
Have you seen the double star Fury crashete ?
Hey skallagrim i saw an add for an mobile game and one of your cutting footages was Used in the add i thought you might want to know that
Skall if you designed three swords to have as meny tools as posible what would thay turn out like?
one the buckler/goran comparison you forgot to mention that a buckler is way more comfortable to carry on the belt
Hey Skallagrim, I would like your *personal* opinion. Which do you think is more Versatile, a European Longsword or a Katana, or do you think Skill and Knowledge are better than Versatility or go hand and hand? Great video and thanks in advance!
Falx is super versatile - you can even harvest crops with it!
The best thing two full edges give you is sharpness. It's not unknown for a sword to get blunted during a battle, or more commonly a campaign, by using it. You don't even need to chip it, constant impacts on shields, helmets and people will dull it eventually. With that in mind, a double-edged sword gives you double the lifespan of the sowrd, and perhaps as importantly, should you actually chip an edge, you can turn the blade around rather than fight with the chipped side.
For gou-rang, I'd not say it's comparable to buckler, except superficially. The purpose and point of a buckler is wearing it with your sword without it getting in the way, it's a sidearm shield. Gou-rang, well, isn't. What it should be compared to is small shields you're supposed to be carrying full time, something like a rotella or a targe.
Most versatile weapon is probably a complex-hilted bastard sword. Use with in one hand, use it with two hands, usi it with a shield, use it on a horse, use it on foot. The obvious drawback is that a dedicated longsword or sidesword will do better at their respective niches.
Allow me to introduce you to the concept of a whetstone, where, over the course of a "campaign" one could sharpen their sword, as one does with all blades.
As Skallagrim hinted, versatility is one quirk a weapon can have. It is debatable if it is the best to maximise, but still one of many quirks.
During a fight there are other thinks to consider like range, weight and balance; not considering gears like shield or armor.
Also a design can be objectively worse than another, but maybe that made the tool easier and faster to produce and requiring less material for a mass production.
Outside-combat and historical factors must still be considerded when judging a weapon.