Update - I've improved the lighting and setting, and changed the camera angle - I think it looks better now, but I'm still looking for suggestions.

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During the 15th and 16th centuries full-plate armour became more and more common on the battlefields of Europe, and more powerful weapons were needed to counter it. Warhammers and maces became increasingly important, but nothing could stop the humble sword as it continued to evolve to suit the military climate. Massive two-handed blades became increasingly common. From left to right:

Great Sword - a fairly standard two-handed sword of the early 15th century. These inelegant weapons had no tip - just a curved edge - and as such were designed purely for cutting. Note the massive pommel acting as a countereight for the blade.

Claymore - most likely an anglicised version of claidheamh mòr meaning 'big sword'. The Scots, whose tactics relied as much on frekaing the enemy out as it did on military planning, are not known for their subtlty. The Claymore is a fairly straightforward design - a big blade with a pointed tip and distinctive angular quillions which were common for Scottish swords. Useful for cutting and thrusting, these weapons developed a fearsome reputation.

Zweihander - literally 'Two-hander' in German. This design is typical of the two-handed swords of 16th century Germany and Switzerland. The blade is enormous, useful for cutting and thrusting, and there is an unedged section of blade (the 'ricasso') extending from the hilt which is covered in leather to allow the wielder to get a better grip. To stop the wielder's hand from sliding down onto the edged section of the blade during a thrusting action, a second guard is formed from parrying spurs on the blade itself. These monstrosities represent the largest swords ever smithed, as after the 16th century the increasingly common use of gunpowder on the battlefield made heavy armour obsolete.

Estoc - an unusual but surprisingly common sword with a single purpose. The long blade, normally triangular or rectangular in shape, has no cutting edge at all but comes to a strong point making it a powerful thrusting implement. These weapons were designed purely to thrust through the joints in heavy armour, or even the punch through the armour itself. Compared to regular Zweihanders, Estocs were lighter, easier to make, required less steel and allowed infantry to stand closer to each other as there was no need to allow room for swinging actions. Against cavalry or more mobile infantry, however, they were practically useless.