This new publication is intended to bring together a mass of research dealing with all aspects of British naval swords. Unlike the much sought after Swords for Sea Service by May and Annis, this work offers a far broader coverage and, for the first time, the complete story of swords and swordsmanship is presented in one concise volume. While the swords themselves are described the authors also tell the story of naval swordsmanship. For example, subjects such as how swords and cutlasses were used in action and how training was conducted are covered. The authors also address how the use of swords developed into a sport in the Navy, and how swords and swordsmaship entered naval symbology in such areas as ships' names. Many current myths are addressed and corrected, and the story is brought right up to date with information on the sport from the 1948 to 2000. While the book concentrates on the Royal Navy, foreign weapons, including those of the Irish Naval Service, are mentioned where appropriate. Other British Maritime organisations such as the Merchant Navy, the Customs and Coastguard Services, and the Reserves are also addressed.
The book also covers subjects such as the dating, collecting and conservation of swords and re-examines those swords attributed to Nelson. The Appendices include the first list of Swords of Peace awarded to Naval units to be published. Recent research by the authors is also reflected in updated lists of Patriotic Fund Swords, City of London Swords, and Naval fencing champions contained in the Appendices. The comprehensive nature of the work has not been attempted before and the book will appeal to a wide range of naval enthusiasts and historians, collectors of weapons, fencers and re-enactors.