Historical and Antique Weaponry Websites
This article is sponsored by the wonderful Trollkarl Armory which provides gorgeous recreations of historical weapons for discerning collectors.
Along with how to clean an antique weapon, I’m often asked where to visit to find out more about historical weapons in general, their use and context. To answer this, I’ve compiled a list of websites and forums that are frequented by a variety of experts, collectors and newcomers. Each is filled with fascinating discourse and novices are most welcome. I’ve certainly missed websites that deserve inclusion here so please use my contact form to suggest new entries or leave a comment below.
General antique swords discussions and sales: Sword Forum International.
Historical weaponry discussions and sales: My Armoury.
Ethnographic weaponry discussions and sales: Viking Sword.
Italian militaria and history: Miles.
The Royal Armouries, Leeds - lots of resources and a searchable archive.
The Met, New York - lots of resources and a searchable archive.
Victorian military history and sales: Victorian Wars.
Sword discussions, old and new, and sales: SBG.
Also on SBG is a list of interesting threads to peruse.
Searchable archives of sword makers, photos and sales: Old Swords.
The r/Swords discussion forum on Reddit is highly recommended.
As is the r/ArmsandArmour subreddit.
Articles on Middle Eastern arms and armour, and sales: Alnakkas Antiques
General military history (in Italian): Bayonet and Blade.
Articles on antiques swords and manufacturers: Easton Antique Arms.
Articles on Asian weaponry: Mandarin Mansion.
Pictorial archive of Victorian weapons, uniforms and context: Victorian Swords Tumblr.
Discussion of historical weapons and their usage: Schola Gladiatoria.
Resources for those researching Fairbairn-Sykes fighting knives.
Articles and sales: Thierry Flekier-Wathen.
Jay Cassidy’s articles on British military swords.
Blade Forums have a sword-based discussion.
The Forde Military Antiques archive on Pinterest shows many historical photographs of people with swords.
Dlatrex Swords on YouTube - showcasing many excellent science-based sword videos.
The Mansfield Collection, a visual catalogue of ethnographic arms and armour.
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