PRIMITIVE ARCHER

The latest issue of PRIMITIVE ARCHER has some articles of interest to martial artists. This is an interesting magazine and one that martial artists and others will benefit by reading articles there and also submitting things, no doubt.

BACKWOODSMAN MAGAZINE

For those interested in ancient, primitive, and traditional weapons,etc. as well as survival, outdoors lore,etc. I suggest a they subscribe to BACKWOODSMAN MAGAZINE at their earliest opportunity. The website is www.backwoodsmanmag.com and you can e-mail the editor at bwmmag@charter.net Thanks in advance and let me know your comments on this. The present issue has several articles on blades and sticks,etc.

THE CANE & WALKING STICK

Many are aware of the cane or walking stick as a weapon and also know about sword canes, pistol canes,etc. More on this topic later.

THE UMBRELLA

The umbrella,hardly carried or used by Americans of both sexes, is not only a shade from the sun(parasol) and rain and other things, but an excellent weapon if employed properly. In the Philippines, the umbrella is called 'PAYONG' and in Arnis, Eskrima, and the 'Kali" the 'payong' is a technique used by many who practice stick and blade fighting arts.

PRIMITIVE WEAPONS ARE ALIVE AND WELL

This past weekend, I attended the annual POW WOW at Warner, NH, and visited the Indian or Native American Museum there and,again, looked at the various weapons and tools displayed there in glass cases. I saw them last year, of course, but this year, my friend,Peter Freedman was there with me and I directed his attention to several things. But my main point here is that if you have glanced at the news stories and pictures coming out of China lately you will see the conflict between the Uighers(sic) and the Han involves such 'tools' and implements. In fact, over the years I have tried to compile a sort of scrapbook on photos and articles,etc. dealing with the use of machetes, swords, knives, clubs, sticks, slings, rocks and stones, and any number of these ancient, primitive, but still deadly weapons. The larger point that escapes most people who read of such is that oppressed, desparate people(s) who do not have access to modern arms, rapid fire or otherwise, will resort to the use of such weapons. This is not just during riots but as actual ways to thwart an enemy. There are quite a number of stories about such but it takes time to find them and also to really understand.

THE BOOK OF THE SWORD

To get an understanding of weapons I suggest that you obtain a copy of SIR RICHARD FRANCIS BURTON'S book, THE BOOK OF THE SWORD, which contains many interesting observations and comments, some pertaining to South East Asian weapons, like the blowgun, the kris,etc. and a number of sketches of various weapons around the world. He also written another interesting but rare book on the Bayonet, which I am in the process of locating. Burton who is credited with helping or actually doing so, depending on whom you read, discovering the source of the NILE. However, far from being an armchair adventurer, he was a soldier and knew fencing and boxing,having many fights in far-flung places, and a master of languages, disquises, and a scholar who translated, among other things, THE ARABIAN NIGHTS. His life was very colorful and it is only now that I am once again getting caught up in his exploits which I have long neglected. His travels can be read with interest in his books, but for many of us, they will prove very difficult to absorb. I also recommend the biography of him by Edward Rice.For those interested in the esoteric and occult, Burton has some observations and comments that might be useful.

ANCIENT, PRIMITIVE & TRADITIONAL WEAPONS

This blog is devoted to martial arts weapons and implements that are fundamental: those of ancient cultures and civilizations with some modern innovations where necessary. The areas will include: archery, swords, knives, clubs, spears, guns, and other unusual weapons. Also, perhaps to be discussed are revivals such as Medieval Festivals, Enactments of various types, and Tournaments that follow a historical treatment or basis,rather than merely competitive or sportive. Naturally, opinions and viewpoints will greatly vary. However, the postings will mainly follow my interests and notions.