Non European forces proving themselves Vs European military might

[Atlantia]

Originally Posted by katana

Agreed, very eloquently put Gene

It is all too easy for political talk to get out of hand ....especially events that are still in 'living memory' for a number of people.

We had a discussion on the forum regarding the 'effectiveness' of Tulwars against British steel in battle. If memory serves, references suggested that the Indians ensured their swords were well maintained, razor sharp and housed in wooden cored scabbards. The British seemed the opposite, complacent about their sword care and using metal scabbards ....which helped to blunt the sword when withdrawing/replacing.

Also, the British expected to swordfight with their 'drilled', practiced techniques...expecting their opponents to do the same........however, their technique was different and alien, and caused problems because of the unpredictability (to the British) of the Indians sword use.

I'll try and find the thread.

Regards David

Thank you David!
Your example of Tulwar Vs Sabre is exactly what I was hoping for to start this discussion.

There is an ancient Indian expression 'There is nothing so shameful as a blunt sword'.

No two fencing styles are more alien (and more refined) than European and Indian.

From fencing myself I can imagine how how the close style and rigid wrist of tulwar fencing must have been a revelation to European opponents.

Gene