"A good book for the modeller... Recommended."
Miniature Wargames magazine

“While specialists in ancient military history may find much of Gabriel’s treatment familiar, and may or may not agree with some of his conclusions, On Ancient Warfare is certainly an excellent read for the relative novice.”
The NYMAS Review

An informative book, of course, but a surprisingly interesting one as well. Enjoyed it. Read the full review [link=https://hmgs.org/blog/2025/12/19/polaris-submarines-missiles-us-navy-and-the-royal-navy/]here[/link]
Historical Miniatures Gaming Society

Peter Smithurst’s The Evolution of Socket Bayonet Manufacture from Hand Craft to Mechanisation 1770-1860 has opened up a new dimension in the collectors’ world. In the same way that the Haynes Owner's Workshop Manual supports the automobile enthusiast this excellent publication enlightens the bayonet devotee. Many such individuals admire the appearance and history of such artefacts. Others even covet, collect, classify and cosset the weapons themselves. Few, if any, research the technological processes behind the items. Publications, until now, have informed this reality. Peter’s work has now filled the gap. Research based on primary sources, backed with huge expertise on industrial and technical subjects, has provided a well illustrated, easily readable, layman’s guide to socket bayonet manufacture. Of particular advantage, for non-linguists, is the translation of French and Russian descriptions that would otherwise be out of reach. The detailed comparison of French, Russian and.. Read more
Graham Priest - Bayonet collector and a prominent expert

"This readable text, from an author who has already published several books on this historical period, has over 300 pages, some 40 illustrations, an extensive bibliography and a good index. Its text is accessible and full of interesting facts about warfare during the seventeenth century."
Fortress Study Group