The hilt of the sword reflects the need for protection of the hand (as found on the 17th-19th century BASKET HILT SWORDS); or lack of it (as found on CEREMONIAL SWORDS.)

      The basket hilt was popular in Scotland and is commonly called the CLAYMORE (claidheamh-mór) or 'great sword'. This should not be confused with the Scottish 16th century two-handed sword (claidheamh-dà-làimh). See The Illustrated Gaelic Dictionary by Edward Dwelly which provides an illustration of each to insure the proper nomenclature.