Pen is mightier than the sword

[katana]

Hi Fearn,
agreed the short 'gladius' type swords are totally functional ...but only in certain environments/situations. One of the reasons why short swords were the common form in antiquity were due to forging/casting limitations. Once these metalurgical problems were 'ironed out' swords became longer increasing their reach and due to the mechanics of leverage etc the impact wound more devestating. With the longer swords Cavalry were much more effective. Swordsman facing opponents with the longer sword also found they were disadvantaged......generally. Of course confined spaces such as dense woodland, ship decks etc the opposite is true (situation/environment).

It seems that the short swords issued to the Artillery and some infantry were inaffective as a true weapon (back-up) when they were better (?) as an agricultural tool and regulary used as one. I have one in my collection ...it is very 'business-like'...but matched against longer swords and bayonet charges it has little chance.

My question revolves around the idea that the input of government 'pen pushers' had too much influence in a number of 'regulation millitary' swords....where other factors seem more important than suitabillity.

Are there any other ill conceived 'patterns'

Regards David