Broadswords
There are many different types of broadswords. They can refer to a sabre or scimitar sword, an arming sword (a single handed sword used in the High Middle Ages), or even any type of longsword. There are also broadswords from different regions - the Claymore is a Scottish broadsword and the Zweilhander is a type of German broadsword.
Claymore means "great sword" in Gaelic. This broadsword was found during the 16th Century and was a short, one-handed sword with an often red velvet-lined basket hilt (a basket-shaped hand guard). These were used by the military and could be found with either a single or double edged blade. They were fairly heavy at two or three pounds and usually 30 to 35 inches long. Today, the Claymore broadsword is used in traditional Highland dance as well as worn in ceremonial dress by officers in the Royal Regiment of Scotland.
The Zweihander broadsword was found typically during the Renaissance period and were a two-handed sword. This broadsword was used by a famed German fighter who was reputed to have such skill that he beheaded multiple people in a single swing. This particular sword is on display at the Frisian museum and weighs 14.5 pounds and is 84 inches long.
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