Blades clash in the enduring debate of the bastard sword vs. claymore, two iconic weapons of medieval warfare. The bastard sword, also called the hand-and-a-half sword, offered versatility with its balanced design, making it effective in both single-handed and two-handed combat.  In contrast, the claymore, with its larger size and distinctive cross-hilt, symbolized Scottish strength and battlefield dominance. While the bastard sword emphasized adaptability, the claymore embodied power and reach, making both legendary blades essential in any discussion of medieval sword history.