The Knife Analyst
Quillon: The Definition and Meaning
A quillon is a key component of a traditional sword’s hilt, specifically referring to the crossguard or guard arms that extend horizontally on either...
Foible: The Definition and Meaning
In swordsmanship terminology, a blade is often divided into distinct sections that offer insights into how the sword should be wielded.One of these sections...
Quench: The Definition and Meaning
Quenching is a critical step in the sword-making process that involves rapidly cooling a heated blade to alter its internal structure. In simpler terms,...
Cavalry: The Definition and Meaning
Cavalry refers to soldiers who fight on horseback—or, in modern parlance, those who are part of highly mobile, often mechanized, military units.Historically, the term...
Strop: The Definition and Meaning
A strop is a simple yet highly effective tool used in the final stage of sharpening blades, including swords, knives, and other edged implements.Typically...
Habaki: The Definition and Meaning
The habaki is a crucial yet often overlooked component of the traditional Japanese sword.Positioned at the base of the blade, just before the guard...
The Dimensions of a Tourné Cut
A tourné cut is usually about 2 inches (50 mm) long, and has seven faces, typically with a slight bulge in the center.The cut...
Clang: The Definition and Meaning
“Clang” is an onomatopoeic word that vividly captures the distinctive, ringing sound produced when metal strikes against metal.In the realm of swords and bladed...
Squire: The Definition and Meaning
A squire, in the context of medieval European society, was a young attendant who served a knight and underwent training in the chivalric arts....
Latten: The Definition and Meaning
Latten is a historic term for a copper-based alloy, frequently similar in composition to brass, that was used extensively in the Middle Ages for...