Knives and Swords: A Visual History

Knives and Swords: A Visual History is a digital reference work from Dorling Kindersley, edited by Chris McNab. This PDF edition contains 362 pages and is available as an instant download.

The book traces the development of edged weapons from prehistoric stone blades to modern bayonets. It features material from the Weapon series and presents a visual record of knives, swords, daggers, staff weapons, and related arms.

Book Overview

This illustrated history is organized into five chronological sections: ancient blades, the Middle Ages, the age of swordsmanship, the twilight of the sword, and the modern world. It covers European, Asian, Indian, African, and American weapons with photographs and descriptive context.

Written as a general reference, the book is suitable for readers interested in military history, arms and armor, and material culture.

What You’ll Discover Inside

• The first blades and early hilted weapons from prehistoric times to 1000 CE
• Ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Greek, Roman, and Celtic blades
• Viking weapons, medieval European swords, and staff weapons
• Japanese samurai swords, Asian daggers, and combination weapons
• European rapiers, smallswords, and Civil War-era swords
• Modern military blades, bayonets, and postwar designs

Why This Book Matters

This volume offers a broad historical view of edged weapons across many cultures. It places each blade in its technological and military context, from early metallurgy to modern warfare.

The DK format makes it a clear illustrated reference for students, collectors, and general readers.

Book Details

Device Compatibility

This is a digital download, so there is no physical shipping. Access is available after purchase.

The PDF can be read in Kindle apps, tablet reading apps, desktop readers, and mobile apps that support PDF files.

FAQ

How do I access my digital download? You receive access immediately after purchase through your digital library.

Will a physical copy be shipped? No. This product is a digital file only.

Which devices are supported? The PDF works with Kindle apps, tablets, desktop computers, and mobile reading apps.

Add this illustrated reference to your digital library and explore the history of blades across centuries.

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