Sorry I took so long getting back guys, I can only really drop in once a week.

Kirk,

I’ll try and get some of those close up pics this weekend to add to the info Thomas has already sent you.

Felix,

It wasn’t the claymore as a sword I was disappointed with but rather that particular model.
I’ve since handled some proper claymores and there was a big difference. Thanks for the Links as I’m still on the hunt for a maker of the type as shown in the attached pic (albeit with a longer handle and a P.O.B closer to the Hilt) as all the ring-pommels are slightly later than what I am after.
Albion will be doing the Laird so I’ll be keeping a close eye on that to see how it turns out.
[ Linked Image ]

David,
I’ll be getting the Scian from Manning Imperial.
[url]www.manningimperial.com/ [/url]
went to Irish arms first but after a two-year wait and still no start I decided to look elsewhere. Shame really as they do some nice stuff other than blades but the waiting time has meant that they have lost pretty much most of the regular business here.
Manning Imperial were supposed to have sent the scian last month but since I was on last they informed me that it was still being heat-treated which could take anything from weeks to months as it’s being done by an external company. It’s out of their hands and I’d prefer it to be done right than rush it. The price was really good too. Once it comes in I can post a pic here or to you and you can see what you think. It’s a blunt though but should give you a good idea.

Thomas,

Could I be brazen and get an e-mail of that article as well as I’ve been looking for that article for a bit now.
I’ve a copy of ‘Irish Medieval Swords’ 1100-1500 by Andrew Halpin (RIA) if you’re interested. Let me know if you want those pages. I’ll pm you my e-mail addy.

Been a bit since I was on this I know.

Kirk,
the person who knows me at the museum Margaret is off on maternity leave so I had to go through all the red tape again with her replacement so in the end I am giving up until she comes back.

Mac,

I have sent that copy of the Irish Medieval swords off to you. If you don't get it let me know.

Anyone else who wants a copy should give me a shout via PM.
Be warned thought the ZIP File is 10.5MB so make sure your server can take it.