The Scottish Claymore stands as one of the most iconic weapons of medieval and early modern Scotland. Revered for its imposing size and distinctive design, this two-handed sword symbolised the Highland warrior’s ferocity and independence. Below, we explore its history, craftsmanship, and enduring cultural legacy, complete with a guide to viewing surviving examples in UK museums and insights into collector auction trends.
Origins and Historical Relevance
The Claymore (from Gaelic claidheamh-mòr, “great sword”) emerged as a defining weapon of Highland clans between the 15th and 17th centuries. While early iterations of large swords were wielded during the Wars of Scottish Independence (1296–1357), the classic two-handed Claymore gained prominence in later conflicts, such as the Jacobite risings. Its final major battlefield use was at the Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689, where Highland forces clashed with government troops.
Key Features and Design
The Claymore’s design reflects its brutal efficiency:
- Blade: Double-edged, 45–55 inches long, optimised for sweeping strikes.
- Hilt: A two-handed grip paired with a crossguard featuring forward-angled quillons (arms), often ending in quatrefoil or lobed terminals.
- Weight: Typically 5–7 lbs, demanding strength and skill to wield effectively.
Unlike shorter swords, the Claymore was rarely paired with a shield, relying instead on reach and power to dominate opponents.
Museum Guide: Where to See Authentic Claymores
For history enthusiasts, these UK institutions house remarkable examples:
| Museum | Location | Highlights | Visitor Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Museum of Scotland | Edinburgh | Multiple Claymores linked to clans like MacLeod and Campbell. | Check for seasonal exhibitions on Highland warfare. |
| Kelvingrove Art Gallery | Glasgow | A 16th-century Claymore with intact quatrefoil quillons. | Free entry; guided tours available weekends. |
| The Wallace Collection | London | A disputed “Wallace Sword” (likely 16th century) and Jacobite-era weaponry. | Debate the sword’s provenance via audio guides. |
| Dunvegan Castle | Isle of Skye | The Fairy Flag Claymore, a ceremonial heirloom of Clan MacLeod. | Combine with a visit to the castle’s armoury. |
Collecting the Claymore: Auction Trends and Prices
Authentic Claymores are highly sought after by collectors, with prices influenced by provenance, condition, and clan associations. Recent auction highlights include:
- 2021 Sotheby’s Sale: A 16th-century Claymore attributed to Clan Fraser sold for £42,000.
- 2014 Bonhams Auction: A Jacobite-era sword with engraved blade fetched a record £68,000.
- Modern Replicas: High-quality reproductions by makers like Paul Macdonald cost £1,500–£4,000.
Tips for Collectors:
- Verify authenticity through institutions like the Scottish Antique Arms Association.
- Seek swords with documented clan ties or battlefield history for higher value.
- Beware of Victorian-era “fakes” romanticised with decorative hilts.
Fighting Style and Techniques
The Claymore’s design suited open-field combat, with techniques emphasising power and agility:
- Tulach Ard (“High Guard”): An overhead strike to break shields or helmets.
- Sgàthach’s Sweep: A horizontal cut targeting multiple foes.
- Dirk Complement: Warriors often paired the Claymore with a dagger for close-quarters defence.
Historical accounts, such as the 17th-century Highland Swordsmanship manuals, suggest fluid footwork and adaptability to uneven terrain.
Watch the Claymore tested.
The Claymore in Film and Popular Culture
While often romanticised, the Claymore’s Hollywood fame has cemented its legendary status:
- Braveheart (1995): Mel Gibson’s William Wallace wields an oversized Claymore (historically inaccurate but iconic).
- Outlaw King (2018): Depicts Robert the Bruce’s forces using Claymores in gritty, historically grounded battle scenes.
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (2020): The game features a fictional Claymore named “Dane’s Hate,” blending Norse and Scottish lore.
A Symbol Forged in Steel
From the misty battlefields of Killiecrankie to the glass cases of London’s Wallace Collection, the Scottish Claymore remains a testament to Highland resilience. For collectors, historians, or casual admirers, its legacy endures, not just as a weapon, but as a cultural icon of pride, rebellion, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re marvelling at a 500-year-old blade in Edinburgh or bidding on a Jacobite relic, the Claymore’s story is forever sharpened by time.
