Sword-fighting in Bronze Age Europe: Assessing the use of bronze swords from Bohemia and Moravia

Abstract

This study investigates Bronze Age swords using experimental methodology and metalwork wear analysis, confirming and supplementing previous findings. Conducted independently, our research utilized consistent experimental methods, yielding similar results to ongoing experiments in Europe. Analysis of combat traces from 47 swords from Bohemia and Moravia reveals significant patterns, particularly regarding blade usage in combat, impacting our understanding of sword fighting techniques in Central Europe. The article focuses on sword usage in combat and its effects on tissue, contributing to the broader understanding of ancient weaponry and combat strategies.