2 comments about Baskets, Celtic Style.

1. Clear diagrams of where to place the celtic designs were helpful in learning this technique. However, the author states in her "review of basics" to "refer to my first book...if you need more detailed instructions". I would suggest (if space was the issue) that in her next book she devotes fewer words in her "evolution" section and include all of the "basic and detailed instructions" in each book. The reader should not have to buy two books to get all the instructions unless one is promoted as in a "series" with the other.



2. The author/quilter uses the bias strip Celtic knot work to create elegant, woven basket patterns, and to embellish around the basket and borders. Designs are given for 5 quilted wall hangings, or you can create your own.

5 comments about Bowies, Big Knives, And The Best Of Battle Blades.

1. A classic by a master blade smith and acknowledged king of Bowie knife makers. For anyone interested in the Bowie and large fighting knives in general, it is a valuable read.



2. It is an interesting book. Bagwell's repeated condemnation of knives less than 9 inches long wears pretty thin though. And on this point he doesn't know what he's talking about - there are situations (fighting a large animal,eg,) where a blade longer than 7 inches will rapidly become a liability.
   
   Also his pronouncements on the absence of effective short blade fighting tradition in Japan is just wrong.
   
   And would anyone really choose that U-shaped Chilean military knife over a Kbar in combat???



3. Bill Bagwell was the author of the `Battle Blades" column in `Soldier of Fortune' magazine from 1983 to 1987. During that time he wrote many articles about a wide variety of knife related topics. In his book "Bowies, Big Knives and The Best of Battle Blades" Mr. Bagwell reprints many of these articles.
   
   Mr. Bagwell begins his book with a closer look at the Bowie knife, which he advocates as the deadliest knife on earth. He advocates carrying a knife of at least 9.25 inches, and in Bowies, Big Knives and The Best of Battle Blades he explains how to effectively carry a large knife in modern society without drawing unwanted attention. (I can personally attest to the effectiveness of Mr. Bagwell's instructions on the use and carry of the Bowie knife, as I have done so for years using the method he suggests.)
   
   Because much of the book is reprints of `Battle Blades' articles we also are treated to Mr. Bagwell's opinion on a number of other knives, such as the K-Bar, saw-toothed blades, daggers, the Kukri, the Japanese tanto knife, throwing stars (shuriken), and the AK bayonet. Mr. Bagwell's opinions on these knives can be controversial, but his opinions are well reasoned in each case ~ whether one agrees with him or not.
   
   While "Bowies, Big Knives and The Best of Battle Blades" gives much insight into the idea and concept of knife fighting, it isn't a manual intended to teach knife fighting techniques. For that Mr. Bagwell recommends the training material produced by James Keating at Comtech, here in Washington State (again a recommendation I can personally attest to having much merit).
   
   If there is any criticism about "Bowies, Big Knives and The Best of Battle Blades" it's that because many of the book's chapters are reprints of the `Battle Blade' articles they are limited in length imposed by a magazine (Soldier of Fortune). Still this is only a very a minor criticism, as the quality of the book as a whole is excellent.
   
   For anyone interested in carrying large knives (especially Bowie knives), "Bowies, Big Knives and The Best of Battle Blades" is worth adding to your personal library.



4. The author dwells too much on knife fighting rather than the knives. I found the book to be a disappointment.



5. The other positive reviews pretty well sum up my thoughts on this text. A must for people who carry a knife with the idea that they may have to use it someday to save their skin. I also recommend Cold Steel by Steyers and Everybody's Knife Bible by Paul. Put together, you will not need any other texts on blade usage.

No comments about Uniforms of the Waffen-SS 1942-1945 Ski Uniforms, Overcoats.

No comments about The White Mountains (NH-ME): A Postcard Book.

No comments about Antique Steins: A Collectors' Guide.

No comments about The Mode in Costume: A Historical Survey with 202 Plates.

No comments about Antique Auto Body Metal Work for the Restorer.

1 comments about Answers to Questions About Old Jewelry 1840 to 1950: Answers to Questions About Old Jewelry 1840 to 1950.

1. "Answers To Questions About Old Jewelry" is the most helpful book available for everyone interested in antique jewelry. Novices and experts all appreciate the clear historical background, descriptions of styles, and numerous photographs. This latest edition includes up-to-date pricing data that allows anyone to discover just how valuable their jewelry really is. I highly recommend this book!

1 comments about Collecting Garfield*t: An Unauthorized Handbook and Price Guide.

1. Okay so mabye some of it you do, but this book is so packedwith toys, CD's, videos, and books you won't belive it. Not only doyou learn about a lot of Garfield stuff you probibly never knew existed (Like me), you'll also get the 411 on all the stuff you own that's probibly worth a fortune (Better tell your mom to hold on to those birthday napkins you used last year for your Garfield party). Plus a history on Jim Davis, tips and suggestions on how to get into the cartooning job, and many secrets on the Garfield cartoon itself. Belive me, this is the best Garfield book I've come accross in a LONG time! Have to wait a couple of months? Well it's worth the wait.

No comments about Nutcrackers (Shire Library).