Militaria, arms and armour Books

Book SynopsisStrategy is the craft of a warrior – Miyamoto Musashi Written around 1645, Miyamoto Musashi’s Five Rings is a classic Japanese work on mastery in swordsmanship, leadership and conflict. Musashi was a swordsman, philosopher and strategist, and today his work remains of influence not only in the realm of martial arts but in the business world, too. Musashi’s no-nonsense approach to the martial arts and combat includes eliminating technical flourishes, understanding that technique should simply be understood as defeating your opponent, and appreciating that the same qualities apply in both small- scale and large-scale conflicts. Repeatedly, he stresses the importance of learning through practice, rather than merely reading about them. Produced using beautiful traditional Chinese bookbinding techniques, Five Rings Illustrated is presented in an exquisite illustrated edition with a brand new modern translation.Table of ContentsIntroduction The Book of Earth Both an introduction to all the books, as well as metaphorically discussing martial arts, leadership and training The Book of Water This book describes Musashi’s approach: Ni-ten ichi-ryu –Two Heavens, One Style. It covers basic technique and fundamental principles. The Book of Fire This book looks at action in the heat of battle, and discusses matters such as different types of timing. The Book of Wind This book discusses what Musashi considers to be the failings of various contemporary schools of sword fighting. The Book of the Void An epilogue. Musashi’s probably Zen-influenced thoughts on consciousness and on how to gain and maintain the correct mindset.

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Book SynopsisAt a time when most handguns were limited to six rounds, the ten-shot Mauser caught the attention of the world for its unprecedented firepower and formidable high-velocity 7.63×25mm cartridge. This saw its ultimate expression in the first-ever select-fire handgun the Schnellfeuer' machine pistol, fed by a detachable magazine and offering both full-automatic and single-shot modes. The C 96 was the first semi-automatic pistol to see combat, arming both sides in the Second Anglo-Boer War, and seeing service with the German, Russian, Chinese and other militaries. Widely purchased commercially, it was carried by none other than Winston Churchill in the Sudan and South Africa, became prized by the Irish Republican Army and Soviet revolutionaries, and even armed Han Solo in the Star Wars' movies.Featuring full-colour artwork and an array of revealing photographs, this is the engrossing story of the C 96 Broomhandle Mauser, the ground-breaking semi-automatic pistol that arm

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Book SynopsisJousting is the most iconic form of mounted combat. For more than five hundred years, the sport itself, and the chivalric culture that surrounded it, took on almost mythical qualities. Here, Tobias Capwell explains the glitz and glamour of a sport that attracted enormous popular audiences throughout the late middle ages.

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Book SynopsisThis fully illustrated new book describes and analyses the weapons and equipment traditionally associated with the samurai, Japan's superlative warriors. It examines the range of weapons used by them at different times and in different situations.Beginning with the rise of the samurai during the 10th century, this lively study traces the introduction of edged weapons (cutting and piercing) and missile weapons (bows and guns) over the next 500 years. The book shows clearly how they were employed by individual samurai using many previously untranslated primary texts, and explains how their use spread more widely among low-class troops, pirates and rebels. It also shows how schools of martial arts took over and changed the weapons and their uses during the peaceful Edo Period (16151868).Table of ContentsIntroduction Development Use Impact Conclusion Glossary Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisFully illustrated, this absorbing study explores the evolving sniping technology and tactics employed by both sides in Asia and the Pacific during 194145.During World War II, both the Japanese and their Allied opponents made widespread use of snipers armed with a variety of rifles, scopes and accessories and prepared by widely differing levels of training and tactical doctrine. The challenges of fighting in a variety of harsh environments, from the Pacific islands to the vast expanses of China, prompted improvisation and innovation on both sides in the ongoing war between snipers and their adversaries. Often operating at relatively close ranges in restrictive terrain, snipers made particularly ingenious use of camouflage and deception as the fighting spread across Asia and the Pacific in the wake of the Pearl Harbor attack, while troops tasked with countering enemy marksmen had to learn the hard way how best to defeat a seemingly invisible enemy.Small arms expTable of ContentsIntroduction Development Use Impact Conclusion Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisAs a gun owner, it’s your responsibility to keep thorough records of your purchases and sales. This handsome logbook maintains those records in an organized, convenient place. Whether you’re new to gun ownership or you’ve been collecting for years, it’s good practice to keep records of your purchases and sales. This conveniently compact logbook has a two-page, at-a-glance spread for each firearm—organized into sections of 20 each for rifles, shotguns, and handguns. Log pages include ample space for recording specific characteristics of each gun along with data that conforms to the standards set by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, including:   Descriptions: make, model name, serial number, country of manufacture, caliber or gauge, capacity, grips or stock, barrel length, finish, sights, action, condition, other characteristics and accessories Acquisition and disposition:

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Book SynopsisIndia is a vast sub-continent with a complex history and a great array of languages, cultures and religions. This books serves as a short introduction to the exquisite weapons used in the region from the earliest times to the twentieth century. Among others, it covers archery, swords, shields, daggers, firearms, artillery and elephant armour.

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Book SynopsisFeaturing specially commissioned artwork and carefully chosen photographs, this study charts the SVD Dragunov rifle''s development, combat use and lasting legacy, from Vietnam to Syria.Developed as a medium-range sniping rifle in the Soviet Union during the 1960s, the Dragunov stood out against most Western sniping rifle types by being semi-automatic, a configuration that marginally lowers accuracy compared to bolt-action sniping rifles, but which allows for faster follow-up shots. Even so, the SVD is still capable of taking precision killing shots out to 800m and beyond, making it a thoroughly practical combat weapon for marksmen and snipers.In this fully illustrated study, Chris McNab explores the Dragunov''s development and performance in detail. But the story of this weapon really comes to life with its combat history. It is the world''s most widespread sniping rifle, still in use in the former Soviet armies and sold to more than 40 countries worldwide. ItTrade ReviewThe versatility and effectiveness of this weapon really comes through in this excellent introduction. * Military Modelcraft International *Once again Osprey have educated me with one of their excellent titles covering a niche subject. * The Military Enthusiast Book Club *Table of ContentsIntroduction Development Use Impact Conclusion Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisThe World's Greatest Knife Book is Back!Now with more than 1,000 stunning knives in full color, this 46th edition of The World's Greatest Knife Book is the annual showcase of the most remarkable custom and factory-manufactured knives available. Fixed-blade designs, folders, swords, kitchen cutlery, cleavers, tactical knives, and every other knife style and design imaginable can be found in this worldwide collection.KNIVES 2026 also offers features on topics that inform and entertain anyone who has even a passing interest in the ever-growing and changing knife industry, including deep coverage of the latest trends in various blade designs and styles.Whether you're a seasoned knife buyer looking to add the next piece to your collection or a knifemaker looking for inspiration, you'll find it here. A knife isn't just a knife. A whole world of knives is out there waiting for you, and KNIVES 2026 is you guide!

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Book SynopsisWhile the PP and PPK were intended for police work, the Walther P 38 was produced for the Germany military; all three pistols have garnered a formidable international reputation since the 1930s.The innovative Walther PP (Polizeipistole), a double-action semi-automatic pistol intended for the law-enforcement market, became available in 1929 and went on to arm the police of several European countries in the 1930s. Its smaller cousin the PPK, more readily concealed for undercover work but with reduced magazine capacity, was produced from 1931. Intended to replace the P 08 Luger, the Walther P 38 was issued from 1940 and equipped the armed forces of Germany and other countries during and after World War II, but never entirely replaced the Luger in German service. All three pistols went on to have lengthy and varied service across the world after 1945. Both the PP and the PPK remain in production today, while the P 38 re-emerged as the P1 and equipped West German forces frTrade ReviewThis excellent volume deals with the history of this company, their various designs from the 1930s and how these pistols were used in the service of many post-war nations. The PPK and P 38 are the mainstay of Walther’s reputation and the chapters on their history are outstandingly informative. There is so much information in this book that makes this volume a must have book for anyone interested in these pistols. Osprey Publishing have been producing the Weapon Series for several years and every book in this Series is an excellent concise guide to a particular weapon or class of weapons. This book is yet another outstanding volume added to this Series, and it is very welcomed. All the books in the Series have a similar format namely an introduction to the weapon or class of weapons, a history of their development, a detailed description of their usage, the long-term impact of the weapon / class of weapons on future derivatives / designs, a conclusion, and a highly useful bibliography. If the development of these three Walther handguns appeals to you then you must consider this book as a necessary addition to your personal library. It is priced very competitively and given the quality of the author’s research it is an excellent publication. There are masses of information on various designs / sub-variants, serial numbers, engraving and stampings etc which make this volume a superb read. The author must be congratulated on this volume and all readers will no doubt be pleased by the high quality of his work. If you have one of these guns, then this book will reveal a considerable amount about its history. -- Dr Stuart C Blank * Military Archive Research *The PP, PPK and P38, some of the most famous pistols of the 20th Century, are covered in this new title, number 82 in the Osprey Weapons series. An 80-page soft-cover book in the usual Osprey style. The book opens with an Introduction that gives some historical background to the area of the Thuringen Forest of east-central Germany and a tradition of gunmakers to which Walthers became a part. With some early designs that led to the design of the PP, the Polizei-Pistole, a semi-automatic designed for police and personal use. Then the PPK, a slightly smaller version known generally of the Polizei-Pistole Kriminal, intended to more easily concealed. Added to these was the work on a military pistol, to replace the P08 Luger, something easier to manufacturer and simpler to maintain in the field, this resulted in the P38. There is great detail on the weapons themselves, the markings you will find on them, the numbers made, the serial numbers used, and in terms of the German military, who they were issued to. They proved reliable weapons, with the small PP & PPK popular with AFV and aircrews where they suited the more confined spaces and after the war they remained in production, not only in Germany but in France as well. Fascinating text accompanied by lots of photos of preserved examples long with some beautiful artwork which included cutaways of both the PPK and P38 weapons. These Walther guns remained in production after the end of the war and used by both the German and French military post-war. If you have any interest in these famous guns, either for their wartime military use or with the fame the PPK gained for being used by James Bond then there is a lot to like about this book. I for one was able to discover a little more about my own examples of the PPK and the P38, which for example I now know was made by Mauser at their Obendorf factory. A fine reference to keep if you have any interest in these famous Walther products. Thanks to Osprey for our review copy. -- Robin Buckland * Military Model Scene *I found this book fascinating, in the way the author relates the gradual evolution of the three weapons , their variants and special orders and serial numbers, also including some unusual derivatives that I had never heard of -- Susan Wilson * Army Rumour Service *Table of ContentsIntroduction Development Use Impact Conclusion Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisAn illustrated study of the uniforms and personal equipment worn by the personnel of the Kriegsmarine, the German Navy of the Third Reich, from 193545. Founded in defiance of the Treaty of Versailles, the Kriegsmarine was established in 1935 and reached a peak strength of more than 800,000 personnel in 1944. Its original aim of amassing a surface fleet on parity with Great Britain's Royal Navy shifted with the outbreak of World War II, after which focus moved to submarine warfare, with the Kriegsmarine's U-boats exacting a heavy toll on Allied shipping across the globe. Meanwhile, several of its formidable capital ships notably the Graf Spee, Bismarck, Tirpitz, Scharnhorst and Gneisenau saw widespread action as Nazi Germany strove to defeat the Allies at sea. In this new study, Nigel Thomas examines the evolving organization, uniforms and equipment used by the Kriegsmarine during its ten-year existence, spanning its pre-war beginnings, the invasion of Norway in 1940, and through

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Book SynopsisThe Elizabethan court was a vibrant and colourful place, where the inherited traditions and technological skill that had characterised the Middle Ages came face to face with the decorative techniques of the Renaissance. This book shows how the Royal Armouries' collections can be studied to gain insight into this creative and dynamic period.

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Book SynopsisFor the British army, the cap badge is the most easily identifiable form of insignia. It represents a distillation of the pride of the regiment, its various battle honours and symbols borne proudly on the metallic emblem that was worn on all head dress, even within the trenches. Identification of the cap badge on old photographs is the first, important step in unravelling the military service of an individual. Cap badge collecting is as popular now as it has ever been; yet with a growing number of fakes and forgeries, there is a need for a book that illustrates clearly the main types, and allows the collector and family historian alike to understand their meaning.

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Book SynopsisNatasha Bennett introduces the fascinating world of Chinese arms and armour in the Royal Armouries' collection. Offering a colourful insight into one of the world's earliest civilisations, she chronicles the development of personal weapons and armour from the late Bronze Age to the early twentieth century.

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Book SynopsisFully illustrated with detailed color plates, this is a fascinating study into the armies, organization, armor, weapons, and fortifications of the Khazars. The Khazars were one of the most important Turkic peoples in European history, dominating vast areas of southeastern Europe and the western reaches of the Central Asian steppes from the 4th to the 11th centuries AD. They were also unique in that their aristocratic and military elites converted to Judaism, creating what would be territorially the largest Jewish-ruled state in world history. They became significant allies of the Byzantine Empire, blocking the advance of Islam north of the Caucasus Mountains for several hundred years. They also achieved a remarkable level of metal-working technology, and their military elite wore forms of iron plate armor that would not be seen in Western Europe until the 14th century. The Khazar state provided the foundations upon which medieval Russia and modern Ukraine were builtTable of ContentsIntroduction – the Khazars in the history of Eastern Europe * Chronology of major events * Khazar campaigns: Wars with the Muslim Arabs – Wars with Kievan Russia – Khazars and Magyars: the emergence of the Hungarians * Arms and armour: spears and javelins – battleaxes – swords and sabres – helmets – armour * Fortresses: stone fortifications – timber fortifications * Further reading * Plate commentaries

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Book SynopsisDangerous Arts portrays a world that combines art with conflict, death with beauty. Replete with gorgeous photography, it showcases works of art that adorned the great palaces of the world. These are objects made to kill but also to impress: a magnificent testament to craftsmanship, engineering and high fashion.

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Book SynopsisFully illustrated complete history of British armoured warfare from the pioneering tanks for the First World War through to the start of the Second World War.

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Book SynopsisStrategy is the craft of a warrior – Miyamoto Musashi Written around 1645, Miyamoto Musashi’s Five Rings is a classic Japanese work on mastery in swordsmanship, leadership and conflict. Musashi was a swordsman, philosopher and strategist, and today his work remains of influence not only in the realm of martial arts but in the business world, too. Musashi’s no-nonsense approach to the martial arts and combat includes eliminating technical flourishes, understanding that technique should simply be understood as defeating your opponent, and appreciating that the same qualities apply in both small- scale and large-scale conflicts. Repeatedly, he stresses the importance of learning through practice, rather than merely reading about them. Produced in a handy pocket format, Five Rings is presented in an exquisite illustrated edition with a brand new modern translation.Table of ContentsIntroduction The Book of Earth Both an introduction to all the books, as well as metaphorically discussing martial arts, leadership and training The Book of Water This book describes Musashi’s approach: Ni-ten ichi-ryu –Two Heavens, One Style. It covers basic technique and fundamental principles. The Book of Fire This book looks at action in the heat of battle, and discusses matters such as different types of timing. The Book of Wind This book discusses what Musashi considers to be the failings of various contemporary schools of sword fighting. The Book of the Void An epilogue. Musashi’s probably Zen-influenced thoughts on consciousness and on how to gain and maintain the correct mindset.

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Book SynopsisSince the end of World War Two and the increasing threat of Nuclear, Biological and Chemical [NBC] warfare during the Cold War, equipment designers have focused on building NBC protection and decontamination into the British soldier's webbing equipment. The capabilities of 1958-pattern webbing were known to be very poor, yet it was not until the exposure of its shortcomings during the Falklands War of 1982 that a suitable nylon-based load-carrying equipment was developed.Table of ContentsThe 1958 pattern webbing Experimental webbing concepts Person Load Carrying Equipment [PLCE] Chest webbing Modular webbing [MOLLE] Osprey and Kestrel body armour equipment Small Arms 80 [SA80] development Nuclear Biological and Chemical [NBC] equipment

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Book SynopsisSturmpanzer IV Brummbär (SdKfz 166, Sturmgeschütz IV für 15cm StuH 43) was a German self-propelled assault gun. Work on the design began in 1942 with a goal of creating a vehicle well suited for the demands of urban warfare. The gun was based on the PzKpfw IV Ausf. E and F and, later, Ausf. G. Initially, the vehicle carried 15 cm StuH 43 howitzer, which was later replaced by a bespoke 15 cm StuH 23/1 L/12 weapon. Brummbär went into production in 1943.Trade ReviewIf as a modeller this vehicle appeals to you, then this title from Kagero will enable you to alter aspects of it and enable to present an accurate scale model of the variant of your choice. * Armorama 16/08/2021 *

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewA part of the Guns of the World series from Schiffer Publishing, this is a large format, but fairly thin, look at the classic German MGs from WWII. The MG 42 was the successor to the M34 so the pair are usually covered together, even though the MG34 continued to see service right through to the end of WWII. The book covers the use and operation of the guns, the variations, manufacturers, production figures and markings. It splits photo duties between mono historical images of them in use and colour ones of kit and markings, all printed on high quality, glossy paper. The larger format allows for more detailed looks at the markings and smaller elements while the overall presentation is very attractive. -- Armourer Magazine and Classic Arms & Militaria Magazine, November 2020

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Book SynopsisFully illustrated, this study investigates the origins, evolution and use of the mail and scale armour worn by the soldiers and gladiators of Imperial Rome.Less glamorous than the Roman Army''s instantly recognizable plate armour but much more versatile, mail and scale armour were used by both legionaries and auxiliaries throughout Rome''s history. Developed by the Celts and quickly adopted by the Romans, mail armour was easy to make and required little maintenance. Scale was a much older form of armour, originating in the Near East during the second millennium BC. As with mail, it was used by both auxiliaries and legionaries, but like plate armour, it was much more fragile than mail. Both types of armour were also used by gladiators (principally as arm defences).New discoveries in both mail and scale, as well as in hybrid forms that mixed the two, mean that much more is now known about the development of these types of defence during the Roman period, their eTable of ContentsIntroduction Mail Armour Scale Armour Lamellar Armour Manufacture and Decoration Mail and Scale Armour in Use Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisJapanese swords, particularly those wielded by famous samurai warriors, hold a continuing fascination for collectors of fine arts and historical military weapons. This book is designed to enhance one's appreciation for the wide variety of Japanese swords (as well as their related polearms), their manufacture and their preservation. A fascinating opening chapter explains how the elite Samurai class dominated Japan for more than a thousand years, how technological and ideological advances overtook the Samurai in the 1860s, heralding a more up-to-date political and military system of governance, and how such changes affected Samurai sword design and manufacture. Subsequent chapters present topics of greatest relevance to today's sword collector: namely, the modern Japanese sword; different types of swords and their construction and testing; collecting and studying Japanese swords (and the tremendously important etiquette involved); and techniques of preserving and polishing swords. This book is beautifully illustrated with paintings, photographs, drawings, and maps. In addition, there is an in-depth glossary and useful tables explaining Japanese calligraphic symbols relating to swords, both of great value to the collector.Trade Review"There are several things I immediately like about this book. It is easy enough to comprehend, yet detailed enough to serve as a reference book for later study. That's a hard thing to accomplish. If you're looking to at least be able to understand and carry on a conversation about Japanese swords in an intelligent manner than you shouldn't look any farther than this book." --Martial Thoughts podcast"Sinclaire's beautifully illustrated book is not merely about the niceties of dealing in antiques, although it is well designed for the eccentric reader of his subtitle. It offers a grand tour of its subject, taking in plenty of the basics." --Times Literary Supplement"Sinclaire takes you on the most thorough of journeys and provides a realistic, helpful guide to appreciating and collecting these blades from ancient, antique and contemporary sources. Fully illustrated, erudite, and well edited, this is a fine guide." --Maine Antique Digest

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Book SynopsisTechnologically sophisticated and powerful, the crossbow has long enjoyed a popular reputation for villainous superiority because it could be used with little training as a weapon of assassination. The study of bow designs, trigger mechanisms and spanning devices reveals a tale of considerable mechanical ingenuity; advances that produced a battlefield weapon requiring comparatively little training to use. It was an extremely useful weapon, and especially effective in siege warfare for both attack and defence.Known to the Ancient Greeks and the Chinese as early as the 5th century BC, the crossbow developed both in Western Europe and in the Far East. Advances in trigger mechanisms, spanning and bow design allowed the development of ever more powerful bows. In this study acknowledged weaponry expert Mike Loades traces the origins, development, combat record and lasting legacy of the crossbow, the formidable projectile weapon that played a key role in a host of battles and siegeTable of ContentsIntroduction / Development / Use / Impact / Conclusion / Bibliography / Index

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Book SynopsisWith over 300 stunning photographs and woodblock prints along with extensive historical and cultural commentary, Japanese Swords is the ultimate authority on Samurai weaponry.Historically, Japanese warriors considered their swords to be more elevated than simple weaponry. Their swords were both lethal tools and divine companions — social and religious icons. Traditionally worn by the samurai as a sign of social status, the Japanese sword represented the junction between the ruling military class and those whom they ruled. Moreover, the samurai sword was a technological and artistic marvel. Many scholars consider it to be the finest sword ever constructed.Concerning symbolism and historical importance, no other blade comes close to the Japanese sword. With a historical, iconographical, and technological perspective, author Cohn M. Roach provides an in-depth study of these magnificent weapons in Japanese Swords. This richly illustrated sword book weaves the blade's primary influences together, tracking its history and illuminating its progress from infancy to grandeur. By studying the evolution of the Japanese sword from this perspective, we better understand Japan and its warrior archetype.Combining research materials from multiple disciplines, Roach uses his expertise as an educator to guide readers through the sword's rise to greatness in a unique way. This book discusses the history, development, and spiritual symbolism of the sword, as well as the esoteric metallurgical techniques used in making it. It also covers the intense training practices used by skilled swordsmen. Japanese Swords also includes accompanying online videos featuring a beautifully-filmed documentary that explores the traditional swordmaker's craft, an introduction to the Japanese sword at a sword shop in Kyoto and a visit to a dojo for a beginner's class in the medieval sword-drawing art called iaido.Trade Review"The imagery here is the real selling point. To me, you've got to show me as well as tell me about Japan. Trust me, if you've wanted to see some historical artifacts, detailed descriptions of Japanese swords, and a little glimpse into the world of Iaido, then you're in for a treat. "--Japan Finds blog"Beautiful photographs of swords, pictures of sword craftsmen at work, and illustrations of Japanese art and artifacts complement the thorough, scholarly text."--Maine Antique Digest"This oversized 176-page hardcover is overflowing with color and black-and-white photographs." --Black Belt Magazine

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Book SynopsisThe School of Fencing is a colour facsimile edition of Domenico Angelo’s famous fencing manual of 1765. Such was Angelo's reputation that he numbered several members of the British royal family amongst his clientele, and his Soho-based School of Arms was noted for accepting female students. Featuring an introduction by fencing expert Mark Hillyard, this new facsimile edition includes the parallel English and French text together with all 47 hand-coloured engravings by artist James Gwynn. It is ideal for devotees of fencing, lovers of Georgian high society, students of arms and armour, and historical reenactors and interpreters.

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Book SynopsisIn World War II, the U.S. Army not only supplied its soldiers with the most modern equipment and uniforms, suitable for any combat situation, but went as far as providing them with their favourite drinks or candy bars.A comprehensive reference book bringing together all the equipment issued to American soldiers in the European Theater of Operations, 1943–45. Each item is presented with its catalog numbers, described in detail and fully depicted in photographs. Graphics and diagrams offer additional information and context. There are chapters on everything from uniform, insignia, and small arms issued to the individual, through crew-served weapons, rations, tents, to sports and recreation equipment. There is full coverage of the specialist items issued to Airborne, Armored, and Mountain troops, engineers, signallers, Military Police, medics, chaplains and female personnel. From the chewing gum included in K rations through to artillery-laying equipment, mess trays to portable altars and field harmoniums, this photographic reference gives a unique insight into the world of the U.S. Army in World War II.As a complete catalogue with high-quality photographs, this book is invaluable to both family historians researching grandpa's kit found in the attic and to assist collectors in their quest to find authentic items among the reproductions that flood the modern market.Trade ReviewHenri’s incredibly exhaustive research has resulted in definitive illustrated guides to GI gear ‘so that the sacrifice of those who fought for the liberation of Europe is not forgotten.’ Readers will be rewarded with a mother lode of photos and data vital for historians, militaria collectors, model makers, and toy soldier and model figure enthusiasts. * Toy Soldier Collector *These books will appeal to a range of interests in the World War 2 US Army. This spectrum will include museum curators, reenactors, and collectors of various themes such as insignia, uniforms etc. The author has done a great service and he should be highly commended for his efforts. Just saying “well done you have produced two brilliant books” is a massive understatement. * Military Archive Research *An incredible collection of photos… The amount of time it must have taken to assemble and photograph everything is likewise incalculable. * The Historical Miniatures Gaming Society 26/10/2022 *First class reference ...packed with fantastic detail. * Military Model Scene *Table of ContentsPreface Introduction: The United States Army 1. Insignia and Decorations 2. Uniforms 3. Individual Equipment 4. Small Arms and Crew-Served Light Weapons 5. Tentage, Sleeping and Bivouac Equipment 6. Armored Troops 7. Airborne Troops 8. Mountain Troops 9. Female Personnel 10. Military Police 11. Army Rations 12. The Corps of Engineers 13. The Signal Corps 14. Chemical Warfare 15. The Medical Department 16. Army Chaplains 17. Army Publications and Other Printed Material 18. Sports and Recreation 19. Personal Items 20. Trophies and Souvenirs Abbreviations Index Bibliography Acknowledgements

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Book SynopsisCamillo Palladini's unpublished 'Discourse on Fencing' is crucial to a modern understanding of Renaissance rapier play. For the first time, this stunning book reproduces the manuscript in its entirety. It is perfect for students of fencing, lovers of Italian art, 16th-century researchers, and historical reenactors and interpreters.Trade ReviewHistorians of swordsmanship have been waiting since 1882 to see Palladini in print, and here it is at last. Scholars will find it refreshing to study an unfamiliar Renaissance fencing treatise which constructively mocks the mathematical fantasies of Camillo Agrippa. -- Sydney Anglo

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Book SynopsisThis fascinating book describes the torture and executions carried out at the Tower of London from the Middle Ages to the Second World War. It explains how the Towerâs reputation as a grim fortress is but a part of its extraordinary history.Trade ReviewSure to satisfy even the most ghoulish of appetites! * All About History magazine *

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Book SynopsisFully illustrated, this study assesses the Soviet and Waffen-SS troops who contested the cities of Kharkov and Rostov-on-Don on the Eastern Front during 194243. As the Axis invasion of the Soviet Union unfolded, two places that suffered exceptionally severely were Kharkov (now Kharkiv) in Ukraine and Rostov-on-Don in Russia. In total, Kharkov would change hands violently four times between October 1941 and August 1943, and Rostov-on-Don also four times between November 1941 and February 1943. In this book, Chris McNab examines the fighting men of the Red Army and the Waffen-SS who clashed in three battles one for Rostov (July 1942) and two for Kharkov (FebruaryMarch and August). He clearly explains the key differences between these two opponents training, tactics, weaponry, ideology and motivation and examines how these differences played out in the three engagements, which ranged from open-terrain combined-arms battles to close-quarters street fighting in major urban zones. Trade ReviewAs ever the text is accompanied by plenty of archive images along with the usual array of artwork which includes plenty of detailed maps illustrating the three battles that feature in the book, along with excellent pictures of both a German and a Russian trooper with their equipment plus some battlefield artwork as well. * Military Model Scene *Table of ContentsIntroduction The Opposing Sides Rostov-on-Don, 20–25 July 1942 The Third Battle of Kharkov, 19 February–18 March 1943 The Fourth Battle of Kharkov, 6–11 August 1943 Analysis Aftermath Unit organizations Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisHighly interesting to anyone with a passing interest in military badges, this book is invaluable for military collectors.

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Book SynopsisThe term camouflage only came into widespread use during the First World War, and the specialist camouflage units developed by the combatants at the time put the bulk of their efforts into the concealment of artillery, vehicles, observation posts and bunkers. It was not until the Second World War that all major combatant nations issued camouflage uniforms better designed to disguise profile, and also tailored to the appropriate theatre of war. Camouflage Uniforms contains nearly 400 colour images showing how armed forces all around the world have developed their own methods of concealing troops, often in response to their unique local environments. Studio photographs clearly show the uniforms with their patterns and colours and with explanatory captions this is an essential volume for collectors and military historians.

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Book SynopsisTreasures of the Royal Armouries is a photographic journey through Britain’s national museum of arms and armour. It reflects the diversity of the Royal Armouries’ collection, which was assembled over many centuries at the Tower of London and now spans the ancient world to the present day. At the core of this journey is the museum’s unparalleled group of Tudor armours which derive from the Greenwich Armoury of Henry VIII, but European swords, paintings and manuscripts are equally well-represented. Stunning pieces from Asia are included, as are key items from the national collection of firearms, started in 1631 by Charles I and now housed at the National Firearms Centre, as well as larger guns from the National Artillery Centre at Fort Nelson. Each of the 115 entries tell compelling stories, tracing the histories of individuals, campaigns and cultures across millennia. They also consider the place of arms in an increasingly turbulent world and the new challenges that technology presents to a modern army. Treasures of the Royal Armouries is a lavishly illustrated account of some of the most interesting pieces of arms and armour in existence.

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Book SynopsisThe ONLY Source for Serious Collectors of Smith & Wesson Firearms! Now in its 5th edition, the Standard Catalog of Smith & Wesson outclasses every other source of information on America''s most iconic firearms brand. Authors Jim Supica and Richard Nahas have added more than 100 of the latest Smith & Wesson models to this edition, bringing the size of this beautfiul, fully illustrated, hardcover book to nearly 600 pages. It it says Smith & Wesson on it, you''ll find it here. Revolvers, semi-autos, shotguns, rifles, military arms and other collectibles are all covered in this thoroughly researched volume.From antiques to current models, the authors cover history, data and specifications of every iteration of Smith & Wesson firearms, along with real-world pricing across multiple condition categories. With listing organized to quickly and accurately identify firearms and nearly 1,000 models of Smith & Wesson guns and

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Book SynopsisWinchester Lever-Action repeating rifles are an integral part of the folklore of the American West. Introduced shortly after the American Civil War, the very first Winchester, the M1866, would go on to see military service as far afield as Bulgaria, but it was in the hands of civilians that it would become known as ''The gun that won the west.'' Offering a lethal combination of portability, ruggedness and ammunition interchangeability with pistol sidearms, the Winchesters and their innovative and elegant breech-loading system represented a revolutionary design. They were used by a staggering variety of military and civilian groups - gold-miners, trappers, hunters, farmers, lawmen, professional gunmen and Native Americans. It equipped a whole generation of settlers and as such left an imprint on American culture that continues to resonate today. This book explores the Winchesters'' unique place in the history of firearms, revealing the technical secrets of their success with a full arraTable of ContentsIntroduction / Development: “The ability to shoot repeatedly” / Use: North, South – and West / Impact: The Winchester’s place in history / Conclusion / Select bibliography / Index

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Book SynopsisThe sequence here shows a MK.I Vickers centrefire automatic machine gun being fired. Sequence shot at the National Firearms Centre in Leeds.

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Book SynopsisIn 1836, Samuel Colt changed the face of warfare with the production of the first of a series of iconic and influential single-action revolvers, including the .44-calibre Colt Walker and the seminal .45-calibre Colt Single Action Army, which remains in production today. These weapons shifted the role of the pistol from single-shot weapon of last resort to a practical and powerful sidearm that gave the user the ability to defend himself once his primary armament was discharged. It transformed cavalry tactics and relegated the sword to a largely ceremonial role in many armies. Featuring full-colour artwork, expert analysis and gripping first-hand accounts, this is the absorbing story of Colt's family of single-action revolvers, covering their origins, development, use and lasting impact on the modern world.Table of ContentsIntroduction /Development /Use /Impact /Conclusion / Bibliography /Index

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Book SynopsisThe Mosin-Nagant is the world''s longest-surviving and most widely distributed military rifle, having armed the forces of Russia and many other countries for more than five decades. It has seen action from World War I to the present day, but is most famous for its role during World War II when it proved to be an excellent sniping weapon in the hands of marksmen such as Vasily Zaitsev and Simo Häyhä. This study covers the rifle''s entire combat history, from its early development through to its service in combat and the impact it has had on modern firearms.Dramatic battle reports and specially commissioned artwork complement the meticulously researched examination of the Mosin-Nagant provided by author Bill Harriman as he delves into the history of one of the most iconic rifles of World War II.Table of ContentsIntroduction / Development / Use / Impact / Conclusion / Bibliography / Index

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Book SynopsisWorld War I's defining weapon for many, Germany's MG 08 machine gun won a formidable reputation on battlefields from Tannenberg to the Somme. Although it was a lethally effective weapon when used from static positions, the MG 08 was far too heavy to perform a mobile role on the battlefield. As the British and French began to deploy lighter machine guns alongside their heavier weapons, the Germans fielded the Danish Madsen and British Lewis as stopgaps, but chose to adapt the MG 08 into a compromise weapon the MG 08/15 which would play a central role in the revolutionary developments in infantry tactics that characterized the last months of the conflict. In the 1940s, the two weapons were still in service with German forces fighting in a new world war. Drawing upon eyewitness battlefield reports, this absorbing study assesses the technical performance and combat record of these redoubtable and influential German machine guns, and their strengths and limitations in a variety of battlefTable of ContentsIntroduction /Development /Use /Impact /Conclusion /Bibliography /Index

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