Fighting Skills Books

The Armoured Rose - $20.00
Tobi Beck (aka Duchess Elina of Beckenham). This book on fighting in the Society For Creative Anachronism is for women who want to fight but procrastinate, or who fight and want to get better, for men who want to train women, or who dread training women because they always seem to drop out, or those who fight women. It describes how women differ from men in their physical, chemical and psychological make up and what effect this has on their fighting style. There are training photo sequences on particular moves which can help greatly. A thoroughly fascinating book. 241pp. Pb.

The Armourer and His Craft - $33.00
Charles ffoulkes. Standard reference offers comprehensive, detailed record of 500 years of European armor — manufacture, materials, tools, cost, weight, etc. Over 100 illus. 256pp. Pb.

Arms And Armor: A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor in All Countries and in All Times - $79.00
George Cameron Stone. This indispensable resource, compiled by an expert, employs an alphabetized, dictionary-style format that makes it easy to locate material on an astonishing variety of weapons. Arquebuses, flintlocks, matchlocks, and other antique guns appear here, as well as German armor, French rapiers, Roman short swords, Turkish crossbows, all the Japanese bladed weapons, and much more. Over 4,500 individual photographs and drawings, plus 875 detailed figures. Pb.

Arrowstorm - $44.00
Richard Wadge. This study chronicles the overwhelming importance of the military archer in the late medieval period. Completely undermining the supremacy of heavy cavalry, the longbow forced a wholesale reassessment of battlefield tactics. Richard Wadge explains what made England’s longbow archers so devastating, detailing the process by which their formidable armament was manufactured and the conditions that produced men capable of continually drawing a bow under a tension of 100 pounds. Uniquely, Wadge looks at the economics behind the supply of longbows to the English army and the social history of the military archer. What were the advantages of joining the first professional standing army in England since the days of the Roman conquest? With its painstaking analysis of contemporary records, Arrowstorm paints a vivid portrait of the life of a professional archer. 288pp. Hb.

Arte Gladiatoria: 15th Century Swordsmanship of Master Filippo Vadi - $53.00
Luca Porzio & Gregory Mele. For the first time, a color fascimile and translation from this important 15th century master of late Italian Medieval swordsmanship. Master Fillipo Vadi’s work, previously overlooked and underestimated by fencing scholars, presents the student of historical swordsmanship or of miltiary history a fresh, stunningly beautiful look into the mind of an Italian fencing master. The core of the book is the Prologue and the Chapters that accompany it, explaining in detail not only who should be taught the art of swordsmanship -- and how -- but detailed explanations that cover almost every aspect of swordsmanship. Closely following the works of the late 14th century master Fiore dei Liberi, Vadi fills in many puzzling blanks left by the old Master and offers his own innovations. Accompanying the exquisitely wrought text, finely translated by Luca Porzio, are 56 color plates showing many of the techniques explained in the chapters and by other historical masters, but in this case, with such a beautiful rendering that they are works of art unto themselves. The authors have also included a penetrating new analysis of the Vadi material, debunking common myths about Vadi and challenging the conventional view concerning his place in the history of fencing. Especially interesting is the section by Gregory Mele carefully comparing techniques in Vadi with the different editions of Fiore dei Liberi. An absolute must for the bookshelf of anyone interested in the history of fencing or late medieval warfare, this rich volume will also appeal to collectors of illuminated manuscripts, reeactors, and literary traditions of 15th century Italy. 203pp. Hb.

Arte of Defence: An Introduction to the Use of the Rapier - $22.00
William E. Wilson. This renowned founder of the Tattershall School of Defence brings the Italian rapier to vivid life with clear, easy to understand text and more than 200 photographs. He successfully dispels many common misconceptions about the weapon, discussing its history, use, purpose and fundamentals of use. The techniques of the famous Italian masters are distilled into lessons, drills and principles simple enough even for a beginner to follow. Starting with a background on the sidesword -- the spada da lato -- this lays the foundations upon which the masters should be studied, covering stance, grip, footwork, the four hand positions, guards, defenses and attacks. It presents drills for the development of all the basic skills. While the work focuses on the single rapier technique of Ridolfo Capo Ferro and Salvatore Fabris, it also presents a chapter on "fighting double," the use of rapier & dagger, rapier & cloak, rapier & buckler and the "case of swords," two rapiers! These techniques will provide a useful tactical edge for competitive fencers as well as reenactors, as nothing seems to work so well in combat as techniques proven through four hundred years of testing. For intermediate and advanced fencers, there are also hundreds of subtle tricks that will enhance the joy of the fence or the competitive edge. William discusses mental preparation, techniques of instruction, and even offers a complete syllabus for introducing new students to the art. Regardless of your level of experience, this book promises to become a classic primer and reference. 180pp. Pb.

The Book of the Sword - $24.00
Sir Richard F Burton. Eloquent, exceptionally erudite history of the "Queen of Weapons." Traces sword’s origin—from prehistory to its full growth during early Roman Empire. Discusses earliest weapons of stone, bone, horn and wood as well as variations: sabre, broadsword, cutlass, scimitar and more. Enhanced by nearly 300 excellent line drawings. 336pp. Pb.

Book of the Tournament - $22.00
Brian R Rice. Among medieval re-enactors, this book is considered a classic. First published in 1991, it instructs the modern tournament fighter in decorum on the field of honor, the ideals of knighthood, and how to appear in the armor and costume appropriate to medieval tournaments. This revised edition adds new material relating to the growing Western Martial Arts (WMA) movement, bringing the medieval tournament and its ideals to a whole new group of students of the sword. The author has 20 years of tournament fighting experience, and is a noted teacher of the ideals of chivalry, as well as the science of swordsmanship. 116pp. Hb.

Cold Steel: The Art of Fencing With the Sabre - $16.00
Alfred Hutton, Ramon Martinez. Instruction in an ancient combat art by a pioneer of modern fencing. Fencing with the sabre differs significantly from using an épée or rapier, and this book shows how. A combination of guidebook and history, it explains strokes and methods of combining attack and defense in a detailed, authoritative treatment that remains ever relevant. Unabridged republication of Cold Steel: A Practical Treatise on the Sabre, originally published 1889. 208pp. Pb.

The Fighting Man of Japan - $10.00
F J Norman. Rare insider's view of the making of the Japanese warrior/soldier. This amply illustrated book, based on the experiences of an Englishman who served as an instructor in Japan's leading military colleges, provides an introduction to Japanese military history and reviews the education of the nation's military and naval officers during the late nineteenth century. Described in detail are the arts of kenjutsu - classical Japanese fencing, sumo wrestling, and jujutsu. Republication of a 1905 edition. 96pp. Pb.

The Great Warbow - $110.00
Matthew Strickland & Robert Hardy. The Great Warbow is a vivid and exciting exploration of the bow and arrow as weapons of war. From before the Domesday Book, through Anglo-Saxon England, medieval Wales and Ireland, the crusades, Bannockburn and the Wars of the Roses, until the time of the Tudors, this book takes us on a wide-ranging and fascinating journey through history. Tactics, myths, origins, defense and armor are all discussed; as are the different types of bow - shortbow, longbow, composite bows and crossbow. Crucial to our understanding of archery through the ages was the discovery of the wreck of the Mary Rose. Built during Henry VIII's reign, she sank in 1545 and it was not until 1979 that a great discovery was made. On board were chests of bows, many in excellent condition, which challenged ideas of historical bow design. Robert Hardy was one of the experts consulted when the bows were found. From this evidence, as from archaeological finds and medieval illustrations, Robert Hardy and Matthew Strickland have produced the definitive work on medieval military archery. This lively and informative book is a must-read for anyone interested in the historical background of the great warbow. 538pp. Hb.

Highland Broadsword: Techniques of the Scottish Regiments - $39.00
Paul Wagner & Mark Rector. Five manuals of Scottish Swordsmanship from the 17th - 19th centuries. The basket-hilted Scottish "broadsword" or Claymore has long been a symbol for Scottish independence and the fierce regard in which Scots warriors are still held. While the rest of Europe emphasized the use of smaller, lighter swords or curved cavalry models, the Scottish weapon retained its medieval flavor. Veteran swordsmen and accomplished authors Paul Wagner and Mark Rector present five key treatises that offer a wealth of advice for fighting with both the basket-hilted broadsword and the single stick -- an ash or rattan stick mounted in a wicker or leather basket-hilt, used both for training and as a weapon in its own right. Included are complete transcriptions of: "Anti-Pugilism" by Sinclair, illustrated with copper plate engravings; MacGregor’s "Lectures on the Art of Defence;" "The Art of Defence on Foot with Broadsword and Saber" by Taylor; "Fencing Familiarized" by Mathewson; and Henry Angelo’s "On the Use of the Broadsword," rendered in full color. These texts contain useful exercises for historical swordsmen of any background. In addition, Paul Wagner provides a full introduction and overview on the fascinating basket-hilted broadsword itself with a survey of surviving examples. 248pp. Pb.

Highland Swordsmanship: Techniques of the Scottish Sword Masters - $20.00
(Ed) Mark Rector. Here presented are two classic manuals of Scottish swordsmanship from the days of Culloden. From the upper-class “Anglicized,” Sir William Hope, who had a long career as author and fencing master, his philosophy was to focus upon the subject of using any form of single hand sword available to defend one's life from ruffians or trained swordsman. The result was his "New Method," a unique manual of swordplay. Donald MacBane, the self-described soldier, gambler and brothel-owner acquired his skills as a swordsman through the rough-and-tumble soldier's life of bloodthirsty combat, duels, drinking, whoring and outright robbery. His techniques were proven in the blood of his angry opponents. His own account of his life as a soldier in Marlborough’s army, preserved and included at the beginning of his manual, reads like an action-adventure from the pages of Defoe. His story alone is worth the price of the book, and you will howl with laughter at his black exploits. 208pp. Pb.

The History of Chivalry and Armour - $32.00
Dr. F Kottenkamp. A visual and literary feast, Kottenkamp's highly respected work is an incomparable study of the origins, codes, practices, and weaponry of knighthood. The engravings — detailing an astounding array of pikes, crossbows, swords, daggers, siege towers, projecting engines, gilded armor, jousts, and more — have been painstakingly reproduced from a rare 19th-century masterpiece. Reprint of the Portland House, New York, 1988 edition. 128pp. Pb.

History of the Sword - $8.00
Bruce LaFontaine. From prehistoric sticks to the rapiers wielded by the Louis XIV's Musketeers, this volume chronicles the history of the sword in 44 carefully researched, ready-to-color drawings of the weapons and authentically costumed figures of the people who wielded them. A rich pictorial history for coloring book fans, students of weaponry, and armchair adventurers alike. 48pp. Pb.

Hunting Weapons From the Middle Ages to the Twentieth Century - $31.00
Howard L Blackmore. Detailed, comprehensive account of swords, knives and bayonets, staff weapons, bows, crossbows, guns and other miscellaneous arms—dating from the Middle Ages to modern times. Over 280 contemporary illustrations catalog the spear of a Roman hunter, a medieval broad arrow, a harpoon gun fired by whalers, and much else. An indispensable reference for collectors, students of weaponry, and anyone intrigued by antique hunting weapons and their use. 480pp. Pb.

Indian and Oriental Arms and Armour - $32.00
Lord Egerton of Tatton. Originally created in the late 19th century to catalog Indian and Oriental arms and armor for a British museum, this volume has long since become a sourcebook of vital information on the military history of India. Enhanced with excellent illustrations, it remains one of the few books available on the subject, providing factual accounts of events ranging from the earliest invasions of the subcontinent in 200 BC. to the decline of the Mogul Empire (early 18th century) and the First Burmese War in 1824. In addition to information on military history, succeeding chapters describe Indian swords, helmets, knives, shields, daggers, spears, javelins, blowpipes, sabers, and a host of other weapons, including arms used for athletic and sacrificial purposes. Descriptive notes, grouped according to geographical areas, comment on styles of decoration, manufacturing processes, and ethnological characteristics. A shorter section of the book includes detailed information on Arab and Persian arms (maces, battle axes, matchlock guns, bows and arrows, etc.) and Japanese armor. Students of Far Eastern arms and armor as well as enthusiasts of military history will welcome this comprehensive reference. Unabridged republication of Indian and Oriental Armour, originally published 1968. 224pp. Pb.

Knights of Jerusalem: The Crusading Order of Hospitallers 1100 - 1565 - $48.00
David Nicolle. The Hospitallers was established by a group of Italian merchants from Amalfi in the mid-11th century as part of a widespread charitable movement to help pilgrims. The Hospitallers role evolved from one of charity work and healing to become recognised experts in the military capabilities of opposing Islamic armies. This book examines the lifestyle, experiences and military roles of the Knights Hospitaller. It not only looks at their adventures on campaign and their training, but also at their beliefs and daily life at home. Accompanied with glorious colour pictures this book gives us an insight into the fascinating lives of the courageous men who were members of an Order that tended the sick, played an integral role in the Crusades against Islam, outlived the more heralded Templars and still exists today, albeit in a very different form. 224pp. Hb.

The Longbow - $39.00
Robert Hardy. Hardy is a well-known character actor in England and an acknowledged expert on the longbow and its history. With drama, vigor and enthusiasm, the author chronicles the arrival of the longbow in Britain and its gradual adoption as the most deadly weapon in the English military arsenal, and its coming of age at the battles of Crecy, Poitiers and Agincourt, to its decline as a military armament and its current status as a hunting and sporting weapon today. The equipment, training and way of life of the medieval bowman is well described and illustrated. There is a chapter on the making of a bow from choosing the wood to final testing of the compleated weapon. 246pp. Hb.

The Medieval Archer - $35.00
Jim Bradbury. This history of the archer in the middle ages, from the Norman Conquest to the Wars of the Roses, opens with a definition of the differing kinds of bows in use, and challenges the usual assumption that the 'longbow' was a new and devastating weapon adopted by English armies from the late thirteenth century onwards. A second thread of the book examines the archer's role in society, with particular reference to that most famous of all archers, Robin Hood. The final chapters look at the archer in the early fifteenth century and then chronicle the rise of the handgun as the major infantry weapon at the bow's expense. Hb.

Medieval Arms & Armor: A Pictorial Archive - $27.00
J H Hefner-Alteneck. Drawn with incredible exactitude, this handsome archive depicts richly detailed armor and weaponry dating from the early ninth century to the mid-1700s. Adapted from decorative ornamentation on burial monuments and manuscripts, hundreds of finely executed images depict authentic shields, swords, crossbows, helmets, and ornate suits of body armor for knights and their steeds. Newly translated notes identify subjects. A valuable source of permission-free illustrations for artists and designers; an indispensable reference for scholars, collectors, and hobbyists. 100 black-and-white plates. 112pp. Pb.

Medieval Costume, Armour & Weapons - $71.00
Eduard Wagner, Zoroslav Drobna & Jan Durdik. Accompanied by a scrupulously researched and well-documented text, over 400 copyright-free illustrations trace the evolution of clothing styles, armor, and weapons during the medieval period in Central Europe - from simple tunics and robes of peasants to the battle equipment and armor of warriors and the fur-lined cloaks and brocaded garments of the aristocracy. An accurate source of reference material for artists, historians, and general readers. Pb.

Meyrick's Medieval Knights and Armour - $29.00
Samuel Rush Meyrick. Highlights from a magnificent three-volume survey of 9th- to 15th-century arms and armor feature 71 full-color and 7 black-and-white engravings. From Richard the Lionheart in full battle regalia to the equipage of anonymous knights, this volume presents a splendid panorama of medieval paladins and their weapons. Includes brief captions. This is a Dover original selection from A Critical Inquiry into Antient Armour, Henry G. Bohn, London, 1842. 144pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Anglo-Saxon Thegn 449 - 1066AD - $29.00
Mark Harrison. The collapse of Roman rule in Britain was not so much a sudden catastrophe as a long and drawn-out decline. The 'Celtic' Britons retreated gradually to the highland areas of Wales, Cornwall and the south-west of Scotland. Control of the fertile eastern lowlands was lost to warriors of Germanic origin who migrated from the Continent. These Germanic conquerors have become known to history as the 'Anglo-Saxons'. They were to dominate the lowland zone of Britain until their final defeat at Hastings in 1066. This title gives an insight into the everyday life, equipment, dress, battle tactics and life on campaign of the typical Anglo-Saxon warrior of this period – the thegn. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Carolingian Cavalryman 768 - 987AD - $29.00
David Nicolle. The army of Charlemagne and his successors enabled the western Franks to recreate what contemporaries regarded as a 'reborn' western Roman empire. Frankish society was well prepared for war, with outstanding communications drawing together the disparate regions of a large empire. The role of mounted troops, the essential striking force of the Frankish army, is explored here. Alongside it was the impact that new technology, such as stirrups, had on warfare in this period. Illuminating a much-neglected area of history, this book shows how the role of cavalry grew in prestige, as the Carolingian armoured horseman gave way to the knight of the early 10th century. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Celtic Warrior 300BC - 100AD - $25.00
Stephen Allen. In the 1st century BC, Strabo wrote of the Celts: ‘The whole race... is madly fond of war, high-spirited and quick to battle... and on whatever pretext you stir them up, you will have them ready to face danger, even if they have nothing on their side but their own strength and courage’. This book gives an insight into the life of the Celtic warrior, and his experience of battle – on foot, on horseback, and as a charioteer. It also details Celtic society and studies the vital ritual nature of Celtic warfare, from the naked gaesatae to the woad-painted warriors. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Condottiere 1300 - 1500AD - $29.00
David Murphy. Originally contracted by wealthy Italian city states to protect their assets during a time of ceaseless warring, many condottieri of the Italian peninsula became famous for their wealth, venality and amorality during the 14th and 15th centuries. Some even came to rule cities themselves. Lavishly illustrated with contemporary depictions and original artwork, this title examines the complex military organization, recruitment, training and weaponry of the Condottieri. With insight into their origins and motivations, the author, Dr David Murphy, brings together the social, political and military history of these powerful and unscrupulous men who managed to influence Italian society and warfare for over two centuries. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: English Longbowman 1330 - 1515AD - $29.00
Clive Bartlett. The English military ascendancy which lasted from the mid-14th to the early 15th century was founded upon defensive tactics based on the use of the longbow. This weapon, distinctive in that it was used by English forces alone, was probably the most effective missile weapon of the Late Middle Ages: its arrow had the same penetrative ability as a modern day bullet and the bow's rate of fire was not equalled by any weapon used by English forces until the adoption of the Lee Enfield rifle at the beginning of the 20th century. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: English Medieval Knight 1200 - 1300AD - $29.00
Christopher Gravett. The 13th century was a time of change for knights in England. They were faced with rising costs and increasing demands on their time for local government because of their very status in society, until knighthood itself was sometimes avoided. This period saw as well the development of the tournament from the wild team events of the early years of the century to the single jousts with blunt lance. Campaign life in the 13th century also embraced several theatres of war including the baronial revolt against King John, the Barons' Wars of Simon de Montfort, and the Welsh and Scottish wars of Edward I. This title also covers the use and development of arms, armour, costume and other equipment. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: English Medieval Knight 1300 - 1400AD - $25.00
Graham Turner. The 14th-century knight lived in a century of change, in terms of both recruitment methods and the appearance of fighting men. This book describes all aspects of the knight's life, including his training in the castle yard and the hard knocks of tournaments. The knight's daily routine on campaign is explored along with the role of mercenary knights, the motivation of knights in the field and the influence of chivalry. The book is beautifully illustrated with eight colour plates by Graham Turner covering all aspects of knighthood in this period and also includes photographs of rare surviving contemporary pieces of armour. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: English Medieval Knight 15th Century - $29.00
Christopher Gravett. The 15th century was a time of change for knighthood. Knights no longer fought for their lords in return for land, since the feudal summons had long before given way to a system of contracts. Moreover, many knights now preferred the role of landowner, man-about-town or parliamentary representative. However, this was also the age of the knight in plate armour, of the battle of Agincourt and the conquests of Henry V, and of the Wars of the Roses, the bloody internecine struggle that tore medieval England apart. In this title Christopher Gravett describes the life of a 15th century knight, his equipment and experiences from his earliest days as a squire through to his experiences on the battlefields of England and France. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Italian Militiaman 1260 - 1392AD - $29.00
David Nicolle. Medieval Italy was characterized by regular warfare among its numerous city-states, as well as internal strife within comunes as aristocratic factions fought each other for domination of the cities' governments. In this context, Italian warfare developed quickly, with the crossbow playing a key role in improving the armour technology of the Italian city militias that used them. This book traces the evolution of the Italian militiaman, providing a comprehensive view of all aspects of the late medieval Italian city militias, from the weaponry, attitudes and social backgrounds of their members, to the political context that made such formations necessary. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Japanese Warrior Monk 949 - 1603AD - $29.00
Stephen Turnbull. From the 10th to the mid-17th century, religious organisations played an important part in the social, political and military life in Japan. Known as sohei ('monk warriors') or yamabushi ('mountain warriors'), the warrior monks were anything but peaceful and meditative, and were a formidable enemy, armed with their distinctive, long-bladed naginata. The fortified cathedrals of the Ikko-ikki rivalled Samurai castles, and withstood long sieges. This title follows the daily life, training, motivation and combat experiences of the warrior monks from their first mention in AD 949 through to their suppression by the Shogunate in the years following the Sengoku-jidai period. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Knight Hospitaller (1) 1100 - 1306AD - $29.00
David Nicolle. Unlike their sometime rivals the Templars, the Order of St John of the Hospital of Jerusalem (or the Hospitallers as they are better known) was not created as a result of the First Crusade in 1099: rather, it was probably established by a group of Italian merchants from Amalfi in the mid-11th century. However, as a consequence of the crusading movement, the Hospitallers became recognised experts in the military capabilities of opposing Islamic armies. This book, the first of two to examine the lifestyle, experiences and military role of the Hospitaller knight, covers the period from the foundation of the order to the invasion of Rhodes in 1306. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Knight Hospitaller (2) 1306 - 1565AD - $29.00
David Nicolle. Having campaigned on land during their early existence, the Hospitallers fought mainly at sea from the turn of the 14th century. The emphasis was now on small-scale operations, rather than the crusading invasion that had so often come to grief. Having conquered Rhodes, the Order fortified it and transferred there in 1309. A period of on-off warfare with the Mamluks became full-blown conflict with the Ottomans, who captured Rhodes in 1522, forcing the Hospitallers to transfer to Malta. This book, the second of two, takes a close look at the men who lived and died for the Hospitaller cause in this key period, and the political and economic role that the Order played within the Christian empire. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Late Roman Cavalryman 236 - 565AD - $29.00
Simon McDowall. The twilight of the Roman Empire saw a revolution in the way war was waged. The drilled infantryman, who had been the mainstay of Mediterranean armies since the days of the Greek hoplite, was gradually replaced by the mounted warrior. This change did not take place overnight, and in the 3rd and 4th centuries the role of the cavalryman was primarily to support the infantry. However, by the time of the 6th century, the situation had been completely reversed. Late Roman Cavalryman gives a full account of the changing experience of the mounted soldiers who defended Rome's withering western empire. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Mongol Warrior 1200 - 1350AD - $29.00
Stephen Turnbull. The Mongol warriors are one of the great success stories of world military history. Under the leadership of Genghis Khan and his successors the Mongols conquered much of the known world, fighting in territory ranging from the frozen steppes, the wilderness of Palestine, the jungles of Java and the great rivers of China. Through all this they showed a remarkable ability to adopt, adapt and improve a vast range of military techniques and technology, from siege weapons to naval warfare. This book tells the story of this remarkable military organisation, including details of weaponry, tactics, training and beliefs. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Ninja 1460 - 1650AD - $29.00
Stephen Turnbull. The Ninja were the secret agents and assassins of feudal Japan and they remain a subject of enduring fascination. They first emerged during the power struggles of 9th and 10th century Japan, in response to the increasing demand for spies, informants and even assassins, and they were used until the mid-1600s when they disappeared on account of a campaign to destroy them. This title provides an accurate and detailed account of the reality of the Ninja, detailing their daily life, training, hiring, combat use and secret operations; also covered are the Ninja's use and knowledge of poisons, medicines and charms. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Norman Knight 950 - 1204AD - $25.00
Christopher Gravett. Throughout the 11th and 12th centuries the Norman knight was possibly the most feared warrior in Western Europe. He was descended originally from the Vikings who had settled in Northern France under their leader Rollo in or around 911 at the behest of Charles the Simple and throughout the following centuries they remembered and built on their warlike reputation. This book shows how their military prowess was renowned throughout the known world and resulted in Normans conquering Sicily in 1060 and England in 1066, as well as participating in many important battles in Italy and playing a major part in the First Crusade. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Pictish Warrior 297 - 841AD - $29.00
Paul Wagner. First mentioned by name in AD 297, the Picts inhabited Northern Britain from the end of the 3rd century AD to the 9th. They rose to power in the devastation following Emperor Septimus Severus's repression of the Caledonians in AD 208, and dominated Northern Britain for over 500 years, before vanishing mysteriously. The Picts represent a high point of Celtic civilisation, remaining free and unconquered beyond the borders of the Roman world, and rising to become the first barbarians to form a recognisable 'nation'. This title takes a detailed look at their origins, and examines Pictish heroic and warrior society, covering education and training, appearance and equipment, the status of women, and the experience of battle. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Samurai 1550 - 1600AD - $29.00
Anthony J Bryant. This title details the culture, weapons, armour and training of the elite samurai warrior class in the fascinating Age of Battles period (1550-1600). This was a period of vital importance not only because of the political effects of the chaos but also due to the changes in warfare that occurred. In 1542 the Portuguese introduced the matchlock musket into Japanese warfare, and this book traces the effect that this important innovation had on the samurai. Life outside the field of battle is also examined, making this an unmissable book for those interested in this brave warrior caste. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Saracen Faris 1050 - 1250AD - $29.00
David Nicolle. In the Middle East, not only were the 12th and 13th centuries punctuated by European Crusades but, even more significantly, the mid-11th century saw the invasion of the Saljuq Turks and the mid-13th century witnessed a devastating Mongol assault. Crucial to the Middle Eastern forces involved was the professional cavalryman, known as a faris or 'horseman'. A faris' training was far more wide-ranging than that of a contemporary European knight, including the use of horse-archery and the ability to fight on foot as well as general horsemanship and the use of the lance and sword. David Nicolle's text presents a detailed view of these fascinating and versatile warriors. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Teutonic Knight 1190 - 1561AD - $29.00
David Nicolle. The Military Order of Teutonic Knights was one of the three most famous Crusading Orders, on a par with the Templars and the Hospitallers. Originally focusing on the preservation of the Crusader States in the Middle East, after the loss of their Middle Eastern enclaves in the 13th century, the Knights turned their attention to the Baltic. Over the next two centuries Northern Crusades were conducted against pagan Prussians and Lithuanians and, to a lesser extent, against Orthodox Russia. This title uses detailed illustrations and photographs to bring to life the appearance, beliefs and battle experience of the Teutonic Knights. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Tudor Knight - $29.00
Christopher Gravett. The Tudor knight was the first line of defence employed by monarchs from Henry VIII to Elizabeth I, the last of a long tradition of knighthood dating back to the 11th century. Knighthood during the Tudor era saw reforms in recruitment, appearance, and most radically in training and equipment. This book details those changes, profiling the knight’s appearance and dress, life on campaign, and experience of battle in France, Scotland and Ireland. It also explores the concept of chivalry, as sensationally enacted by Henry VIII and Francis I of France at the celebrated Field of Cloth of Gold near Calais, in 1520. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey Warrior: Viking Hesir 793 - 1066AD - $25.00
Mark Harrison. When Norwegian Vikings first raided the European coast in the 8th century AD, their leaders were from the middle ranks of warriors known as hersirs. At this time the hersir was typically an independent landowner or local chieftain with equipment superior to that of his followers. By the end of the 10th century, the independence of the hersir was gone, and he was now a regional servant of the Norwegian king. This book investigates these brutal, mobile warriors, and examines their tactics and psychology in war, dispelling the idea of the Viking raider as simply a killing machine. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey: Forts of Celtic Britain - $29.00
Angus Konstam. Half a millennium before the Romans first arrived in Britain, an even more ferocious people, the Celts, arrived in what is now south-eastern England. The Celts remained in Britain long after the Romans departed, and although driven into the remoter corners of the island by English invaders the people who remained clung onto their Celtic heritage, and defended their remaining lands against all-comers. In order to defend their lands from other tribes or outside invaders these people established powerful fortified sites that served as places of refuge in wartime and as administrative and trading centres in times of peace. This book examines these fascinating forts, which varied considerably from the mysterious brochs and duns found in northern Britain, to the hill-top forts ranging in size, to the promontory forts that formed powerful coastal strongholds all around the island’s shores. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey: Japanese Fortified Temples and Monasteries AD 710-1062 - $29.00
Stephen Turnbull. From the 10th century onwards the great Japanese monastic foundations of Nara and Mount Hiei maintained large armies of warlike monks. The tempestuous political rivalries that developed between the different orders of monks and religiously inspired laymen ensured that their temples and monasteries had to be securely sited and robustly defended. This books recreates these enormous fortified monasteries and temples, tracing their development from the 10th century through to the Sengoku Jidai period and the rise of the power of the shogunate under Tokugawa Ieyasu. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey: Medieval Siege Weapons (1) - $25.00
David Nicolle. The Medieval era was a period of huge variety and invention in siege warfare. Before the use of cannon and other gun-powder artillery, siege engines relied on assorted sources of power, from torsion 'energy storage' systems to man-power, counter-balances and others. This book reveals how technological traditions from the Graeco-Roman world, Persia, India and above all China made a massive contribution to siege warfare techniques. It also covers developments in military engineering, such as mining, counter-mining, the breaking of walls, the use of noxious and chemical fumes and the use of fire-weapons. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey: Tudor Warships (1) Henry VIII's Navy - $27.00
Angus Kntstam. In this book, maritime expert Angus Konstam explores the fledging Tudor Navy, tracing its history from its origins as a merchant fleet under Henry VII through to its emergence as a powerful force under Henry VIII. Examining the operational use of Henry VIII's warships the author analyses the battle of the Solent in 1545, in which Henry's fleet took on a French fleet of 200 ships - much larger than the Spanish Armada decades later. Despite the well-documented loss of his flagship, the Mary Rose, Henry's smaller force succeeded in preventing a French victory. Although many people will have heard of the mighty Mary Rose, this book will tell the story of more than just the tragic sinking of Henry's flagship, describing how one of history's most dynamic kings grew the navy from the five warships that were his father's legacy to 53 deadly gunships at the forefront of his empire-building strategy. Through contemporary illustrations and intricate artwork, the author traces the changing face of warship design during the Renaissance as Henry paved the way for English dominance of the sea. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey: Tudor Warships (2) Elizabeth I's Navy - $27.00
Angus Konstam. In his second volume on the Tudor navy, naval expert Angus Konstam covers the extraordinary transformation of the Tudor fleet during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I. This period witnessed the birth of a whole new breed of warships designed to dominate the seas and expand the corners of the empire. Detailing warfare during the age of Sea Dogs such as Sir Francis Drake and Walter Raleigh, and the landmark event of the Spanish Armada, he explains the technological innovations that allowed this small but efficient navy to defeat the larger Spanish fleet.Packed with new research, in-depth analysis, photographs, full-colour reconstructions and detailed cutaway artwork, this book is a must for any lover of maritime history, and for anyone who wants to understand how Britain came to rule the waves, creating and retaining her supremacy across the seas throughout the age of fighting sail. 64pp. Pb.

Osprey: Viking Longship - $26.00
Keith Durham. Viking longships evolved from one-man canoes of the Scandinavian Stone Age, through wood-built-ships of c. 200 BC into the recognisable longboats of the 4th century AD. From this point, the Viking Longship developed into the pre-eminent raider and trader in the North Sea and Baltic, venturing as far afield as the Mediterranean, North Atlantic and modern-day Russia. Keith Durham uses reconstructions, original sources, translations and archaeological evidence to render a vivid picture of the vessels that dominated the seaways of Scandinavia, founded colonies on Iceland, Greenland and the New World and terrorised the coastlines of northern Europe. Also covered are Norman vessels, including the invasion fleet of William the Conqueror. 64pp. Pb.

Spada: An Anthology of Swordsmanship in Memory of Ewart Oakeshott - $35.00
The project of the Swordplay Symposium International (SSI), this anthology of articles captures not only the “cutting edge” of scholarship relating to study of historical fighting treatises and techniques, but also stands as a paean to one of the sword communities greatest lights, Ewart Oakeshott. Containing Ewart’s last article, “Studying Arms within the Circumference of History,” as well as notable luminaries in the historical swordsmanship community record the current state of scholarship relating to the fantastic yet cryptic historical treatises. This volume is sure to appeal to historical and modern fencers, Medieval and Renaissance reenactors, stage combatants, military historians and arms & armor historians.

Spada II: An Anthology of Swordsmanship - $39.00
(Ed) Stephen Hand. The relatively young field of historical swordsmanship relies on research into the great historical fencing masters and the many fencing treatises they left behind for posterity. The first edition of SPADA, published in 2003 showcased the very best research by some of the best people in the field. SPADA II continues this, with articles on a wide range of different swordsmanship topics from some of the best known writers and teachers as well as some exciting new authors. The articles in SPADA II cover a wide range of topics, with something for everyone interested in the theory or practice of historical swordsmanship. Whether you are interested in rapier fencing, sword and shield, the Highland Broadsword or just want to know what a sword can do if it hits you, you won't want to miss out on the latest cutting edge research from some of the finest researchers in historical swordsmanship. 180pp. Pb.

Swords & Daggers - $25.00
Eduard Wagner. Carefully researched, crisply written text traces the development of hand weapons from ancient times to the 20th century, and considers their importance as tools of battle as well as their dress and ceremonial significance. Captioned illustrations for more than 250 weapons depict bronze swords made almost 3,000 years ago, a sharply curved 18th-century Turkish kilij, and a wide range of sabers, broadswords, and rapiers. An indispensable sourcebook for collectors, students of warfare, and weaponry enthusiasts. 253 black-and-white illustrations. Pb.

Weapons & Armour - $29.00
Harold M Hart. A pictorial arsenal of war-making instruments offers over 1400 copyright-free illustrations of battle-axes, bows & arrows, cannons, catapults, clubs, daggers, handguns, tanks, suits of armor, helmets, much more culled from old archives and publications. Sources listed. 192pp. Pb.