Bladesmithing

Antique Swords & Daggers is a fascinating collection of edged weapons from Europe, America, the Middle East, Asia, Japan, and Africa. It includes their characteristics, historical uses, and current values.

Format: Hardcover.   Dimensions: 9" x 12"   Pages: 288   Illustrations: 1290

In the panorama of traditional forging techniques, damascus has always represented a great challenge for those who tried to make it; so much so that throughout the centuries it has had alternating periods of decline and rebirth which were sometimes caused by these very difficulties in producing it. Damascus forging techniques, which are connected to a level of skill obtainable only through long and patient practice, have witnessed a rebirth of great quality in good part owing to bold experimentation. This is a practical manual with an introduction covering ancient damascus production techniques. In simple languag and with over 350 full color photos the book covers a great number of techniques fo obtaining many different kinds of damascus. English/Italian

Format: Hard Cover   Dimentions: 8 1/2" x 11"   Pages: 240   Illustrations: 350

Damascus Steel: Theory and Practice focuses on this centuries-old, hot forged steel that is legendary for making sharp, strong blades that struck fear in many a man's heart. Artisan, blacksmiths, and hobbyists the world over have initiated a renaissance of that fascinating, decorative material. which is the focus of this comprehensive book. It offers inspiration and the fundamentals of working in this ancient medium, Ideal for amateur blacksmiths and experienced metalworkers. It includes the detailed, computer-generated illustrations and hundreds of photos to learn how to identify grain direction, properly execute torsion technique, and see the endless potential for forging patterns in Damascus steel.

Format: Hard Cover  Dimentions: 7 1/4" x 10 1/4"  Pages: 176  Illustrations: 300

Myth and Reality 1450-1650

This scholarly significant, popularly written, and beautifully illustrated work explores the multiple rolls of arms and armor in the Renaissance and Baroque societies. During the period between 1450-1650, gunpowder weapons and new military technologies gradually extinguished the need for knights in shining armor on the battlefield. In this period, unsurpassed production of elaborate, richly decorated, and superbly crafted suits of armor became a symbol of status and was worn increasingly for ceremonial purposes and adopted into everyday life and dress.

Format: Hardcover.   Dimensions: 11.5" x 10.75"   Pages: 84   Illustrations: 111