The Claidhmhor pronounced "Claymore" meaning "big sword" was the original highlanders sword and was often of incredibly large and heavy proportions requiring the use of both hands. The Scottish Clansman was a magnificent swordsman who spared no effort in finding the finest blades available, as evidenced by the number of Italian Ferrara and Toledo blades on ancient Claidhmhor and Broadswords in the hands of collectors and museums.

In the famous McIan print of Charles Edward Stuart, he is shown leaning on his sword, the blade of which is curved under his weight...to demonstrate the temper of the steel.