The development treated in this volume of a variety of staff weapons in the Medieval and Renaissance periods in Europe is of importance, as the repeated success of their use caused substantive political changes. Their typology, use, and smithing techniques as well as correlations with contemporary artistic renditions, are discussed in great detail. Surviving specimens from museums and collections throughout the Western Hemisphere are used. Conservation issues are also dealt with. The book is heavily illustrated with black and white, color photographs and drawings and has a foreword by Walther Karcheski, Chief Curator of Arms and Armor of the Frazier Antique Arms Museum. It is intended as a reference for historical scholars, artists, museum curators, private collectors and the art market, and is a timely clarification of the nature of these arms.