The Myth of Swords and Guns: Debunking the Claims and Exploring Feasibility

Throughout history, the debate over the power of swords versus firearms has persisted, leading to myth and folklore surrounding how these ancient weapons might interact with modern firearm technology. This article delves into the claims of swords cutting-gun barrels and the feasibility of such occurrences, drawing on historical evidence and expert opinions.

Historical Context and Claims

The claim that a Kris sword or a Japanese sword could cut a gun barrel in half circulates in various forms and contexts. For instance, Noel Perrin's book "Giving Up The Gun" mentions a film in Japan depicting a machine-gun barrel being sliced in half by a sword from the forge of the renowned swordsmith Kanemoto II. Another story, from the Philippines during the 1972 era, describes a BAR barrel cut in half by a Kris sword. These claims, however, remain tenuous and are often met with skepticism.

Japanese Swords and Cutting Experiments

Historical evidence from George Cameron Stone, a distinguished arms collector, provides a more grounded perspective. Stone participated in a test where a sixteenth-century Japanese sword was used to cut a modern European sword in two. This undertaking lends credibility to the possibility, albeit under specific conditions. Similarly, the existence of a film in Japan showing a machine-gun barrel being cut in half by a Kanemoto II sword highlights the interest in examining such claims more closely.

Technical and Physical Considerations

The difficulty in cutting a firearm barrel with a sword lies in the structural integrity of both the firearm and the sword. Firearm barrels are typically made of robust materials like steel, designed to withstand high pressures and temperatures. A sword, while capable of making clean cuts, does not possess the necessary tools or techniques to penetrate such materials effectively.

Practical Demonstration

Practically, a skilled swordsman could attempt to demonstrate the concept, as Art Miraflor suggests. A Scottish Claymore, for example, would provide a significant advantage in blade length and power. By positioning a rifle appropriately (across sawhorses, simulating a downward strike), one could theoretically cut through a modern firearm's barrel. However, this would require an exact strike point and sufficient force, which are challenging to achieve.

Mythbusters Analysis

Mythbusters—an educational television show that explores myth and lore through controlled experiments—has tackled similar claims. They have demonstrated that while certain melee weapons could potentially cut through weaker materials like wood or cloth in a controlled environment, the structural integrity of a firearm barrel makes such a feat highly improbable with a traditional sword. The tests typically reveal that the barrel deforms and bends rather than breaking cleanly, contradicting the myth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the idea of a sword cutting a gun barrel is captivating and intriguing, it remains more of a myth than a practical reality. Historical and technical evidence suggests that such feats are unlikely due to the inertia and strength required. However, the pursuit of such demonstrations continues to captivate the public and inspire discussions on the inherent power and capabilities of different weapons throughout history.