| A Glossary of the Construction, Decoration and Use of Arms and Armor in all countries and in all times. George Cameron Stone |
|
 |
If you can only have one book on arms and armor, this is it. No serious arms collector should be without a copy of Stone's Glossary. A paperback version has recently be released and is available. |
| The Crossbow, Its Construction, History and Management Sir Ralph Payne-Gallwey, Bt. |
|
 |
Originally monographs which were collected and published in book form in 1903 and expanded in 1907, this is still the definitive work on the subject. Also includes information on Turkish bows and siege engines. |
| Packing Iron, Gunleather of the Frontier West Richard C. Rattenbury |
|
 |
I found this book fasinating and recommend it to any student of the history of firearms, as well as CAS shooters interested in historical accuracy. In particular, it was the first time I had run across information about and depictions of civilian pommel holsters. |
| Samurai Sword, A Handbook John M. Yumoto |
|
 | Back in the late 60's the late John Yumoto used to host a monthly discussion group in his living room, at which I learned much of what I know about Japanese swords. His book is not the most comprehensive, but I think it is the best introductory level book I have used, and very moderately priced. Simple and well laid out, it is my first choice for a quick reference to the complicated nomenclature of the Japanese Sword. |
| American Indian Beadwork W. Ben Hunt and J. F. Burshears |
Book of Buckskinning III William H. Scurlock, ed. |
||
 |
I don't have a huge selection of beading books, but this is the most useful I have on "How-to-do-it". |
 |
The Book of Buckskinning series always has good info. Issue % III has two articles about beading. One is on the beads, bead trade and history and finding them today. The other is on Native American techniques and designs. Also in this issue is an article on the closely related quillwork and one on moccasin making, just in case you need a project to bead. |