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MILITARY HISTORY
The Skean
Robert Gresh
The first and only guide to the skean, a native Irish derivative of the Scottish dirk
Smiths will find the information they need to reproduce fair copies
Collectors will learn how to identify original examples of the skean
This is the history of the distinctive fighting knife of the Gaelic Irish, the skean (Irish: scian). Author Robert Gresh has scoured primary sources for references to the weapon in use and traveled to examine the known surviving examples. The skean fell into disuse in the 18th century without being well documented, and surviving examples are often out of sight in reserve collections, private collections, or small local museums. Today, the skean is sought after by reenactors and collectors, but before now, there has not been any definitive work on the subject. This study is intended to aid collectors and curators in the identification of original artifacts, while also assisting fabricators in the creation of replica pieces. Also included is information on manufacturing and fighting techniques.
About the Author
Robert Gresh is a lifelong student of Irish arms and armor. He has reviewed reserve collections in Ireland and correctly identified a skean in the possession of a prominent British collector, which was mislabeled as a Scottish dirk. He also authored books on Irish Armies of the 16th Century and The Nine Years War, 1594–1603.
Author Location: West Virginia
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THE PUUKKO 978-0-7643-6070-1 $45.00 224 pp. | 8 1/2" x 11" (215 x 279 mm) | HC COMBAT KNIVES AND KNIFE COMBAT 978-0-7643-4834-1 $45.00 200 pp. | 7" x 10" (177 x 254 mm) | HC
AVAILABLE MAY
ISBN: 978-0-7643-6637-6 Size: 9" x 12" (228 x 304 mm) Pages: 80 Price: $24.99
ISBN 978-0-7643-6637-6
Illustrations: 115 color and b/w images Binding: hardcover BISAC: ANTIQUES & COLLECT-
IBLES / Firearms & Weapons HISTORY / Military / Weapons HISTORY / Europe / Ireland
