Non European forces proving themselves Vs European military might

[fernando]

Originally Posted by Gonzalo G

I am under the impression that you give much importance to the swords, which I believe were not a primary weapon in those times, nor they decided the result of the battles...

Lances, classic swords, two handed swords (montantes), rapiers and even halberds, according to chronicles; each one was a primary weapon ,depending on the circumstances.

Originally Posted by Gonzalo G

... Also, you have to take on account that tulwars or shamshir were used in combination with shields ...

Correct.

Originally Posted by Gonzalo G

... and fencing was not made mainly as among 19th Century european troops, or as in a civil fight with rapiers.

I guess the concept of troops was rather distinct in earlier days .
I may be mixing things, but it seems as combat fencing (manouverable sword and rapier) was schooled among nobles, a lot much earlier than that .

Originally Posted by Gonzalo G

... I don´t believe a classic rapier is capable to stop heavy weapons without been seriousy damaged.

I guess they wouldn't stop them with the rapier, but with their left hand dagger. Besides, warlike rapier blades were not so fragile as those from street fighting.

But don't hit me hard, Gonzalo; i wouldn't resist a serious test in the subject

Fernando