12-29-2014, 06:07 PM
Quote:which "flexibility"??? most of the Mainz-blades were made in mid-carbon steel or high-carbon-edges on a low carbon core. these composites don`t work in a "flexible" way... they bend without breaking. normally and well-made and well-used. flexibility as we know it from later times was not (or very seldom) achieved in these times (till 3rd-4th century). a blade of 50cm doesn`t need to be flexible to work as a weapon
You might find this interesting:
"[Celtibernians] grasp the hilt [of their swords] in their right hand and the end of the blade in their left; then, laying it horizontally on their heads, they pull down at each end until they touch their shoulders [each end]. Next, they let go sharply, removing both hands. When released, [the sword blade] straightens itself out against and so resumes its original shape, without retaining a suspicion of a bend. Though they repeat this frequently, the sword remains straight."
Philon of Byzantium, Belopeika, 4.71, written in 2nd Century BC
