Do Left-Handers Form a Consistent Minority Throughout History?

And if so, why? These intriguing questions lie at the heart of a new research project currently being initiated by Dr. Tim Simon, a philosopher and neurobiologist from the University of Trient. The study will specifically, though not exclusively, explore the relevance of left-handedness in antagonistic and duelling contexts, where it is often considered an advantage.

Dr. Simon reached out to me because of my research into the ergonomics of historical sword grips and the insights I have gained. He was particularly excited about the possibility of determining whether a sword was made for left- or right-handed use.

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He suggested that my research could provide the key to unlocking the ratio of left-handers in historical—and even prehistoric—combat contexts. While there are numerous studies and statistics for modern combat sports, there is currently very little data available for pre-industrial eras.

In a preliminary survey, I examined 65 single-handed swords, primarily dating from the 9th to the 14th century. Of these, 47 were optimised for right-handers and 12 for left-handed use, indicating a left-handed sword-fighter ratio of 20.33%. This aligns with the proportion of left-handers among top performers in many modern sports—such as table tennis, cricket, baseball, and combat sports—even though left-handers make up only about 10% of the general population.

Interestingly, the remaining six swords in the survey could be comfortably wielded by both right- and left-handers. However, even these swords exhibit subtle ergonomic fine-tuning. Furthermore, they are of different types than those optimised for specific handedness. Notably, none of these six swords displays the characteristic offset of the pommel typical of handedness adaptation, as it is not required. Dr. Alfred Geibig considers this a confirmation of my hypothesis that such offsets are indeed deliberate deviations from symmetry to enhance ergonomics.

I sincerely hope this project secures appropriate funding, as it is a subject I find deeply fascinating.

New Exciting Addition to My Sword Shop

I’ve just added a 300 dpi colour version of my full-size illustration, complete with information and statistics, of a mighty Great War Sword from Lübeck to my shop on Patreon.

This elegant early 14th-century two-handed sword is one of three such swords in the collection of the Sankt Annen Museum, all featuring inlaid crosses of different designs at their respective points of balance. It is featured in the 2015 Solingen exhibition catalogue, The Sword — Form and Thought, on pages 96–97.

No better way to enjoy the season.

Warm regards,
​Roland

So, that's it for today. Take care, and keep your blade well-honed.

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Yours,

Roland

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