Claymore
The great two-handed sword of the Scottish Highlands
The claymore is the great two-handed sword of the Scottish Highland warrior, its name derived from Gaelic "claidheamh-mor" (great sword). At 130-150cm total length and 2.2-2.8kg, its most striking visual features are the V-shaped downward-angled crossguard with quatrefoil (four-leaf clover) terminals. Used by Highland clan warriors in the 15th-17th centuries, it became especially famous during the Scottish Wars of Independence and Jacobite rebellions. Wielded in wide sweeping arcs during the Highland Charge to smash through enemy formations.
Origin
Emerged in 15th-century Scottish Highlands and remained in use through the 17th century. Iconic weapon of Scottish independence battles at Stirling Bridge (1297) and Bannockburn (1314).
Features
- Total length 130-150cm, weight 2.2-2.8kg
- V-shaped crossguard — distinctive angled design
- Quatrefoil terminals on guard ends
- Iconic weapon of Scottish clan warriors
- Name from Gaelic meaning "great sword"
- Weight distribution suited for sweeping cuts
Usage
Used in the Highland Charge tactic — sprinting at full speed toward enemy lines while sweeping in wide arcs to shatter enemy formations.
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