The original Claymore swords were massive, two-handed, double-edged broadswords that were wielded during the 16th to 18th Centuries by hard-bitten, hard-fighing Scottish Highlanders. Used for both cleaving and smashing in melee combat, they were the Highlanders' weapons of choice during their continual uprisings against the English and in their bloody and seemingly-constant inter-clan battles. Their design almost always incorporated a cross-hilt with downsloping arms that had quatrefoils (a design that is somewhat similar to a four-leaf clover) on the ends. These Claymore swords required a great deal of strength to use effectively: they were usually around 4 1/2 feet long and they typically weighed around 5 1/2 pounds. The blade alone was usually around 4 feet of cold, brutal steel.

A different type of Claymore sword, somewhat shorter, somewhat more advanced in design, had only a single edge. Instead of the cross-hilt, it utilized a basket hilt in order to more effectively protect the hand in combat. This type of Claymore became popular with Scottish troops during the 1700s, and it is still worn as an integral part of the ceremonial, full-dress uniform of the Highland regiments of the British Army.

But the original Claymore sword, simple yet elegant, stands out as one of the classic swords of the world, one that is immediately recognizable to weaponry afficionados everywhere. It is a beautiful but deadly design.

True to their early Scottish roots, the Claymore swords that are available today often have a wood or leather-wrapped handle and sometimes come with a leather scabbard or sheath. Some Claymore swords have chrome-plated steel hilts and blades, others have solid silver or brass hilts and polished stainless steel or carbon steel blades. Some are decorative replicas, while others are advertised as being "battle-ready."

Swords have been used as weapons of war since time immemorial, and in hundreds of different cultures throughout the world. But no culture has ever used the sword against higher odds than the Scots with their Claymore swords. No sword was ever wielded with greater bravery than the Claymore sword. They are one of the truly great swords of the world, and thanks to their popularity, they are a piece of history that lives on today.

About Author: Diane Hamments is a freelance author who writes on various subjects including Claymore Swords, Collectables and Memorabilia. Visit great gift ideas for more information.