Description
Circa 1500
This style of longsword shows up often in fighting manuals from the early 16th century, a time when swordplay was as much about technique as it was about the weapon itself. The hilt here is straightforward, favoring a grip that lets the wielder shift between traditional holds and the less common practice of gripping the blade itself,a risky move, but one recorded in period sources for close control and thrusting precision. The handguard is minimal, offering little in the way of protection, yet the blade’s flared shape just above the guard acts like a secondary guard or parrying hook, designed to catch or deflect an opponent’s blade. This feature reveals a clever balance between offense and defense, allowing the swordsman to manipulate the fight with reach and control. These swords serve as a practical window into the martial arts of the time, demonstrating how form and function worked hand in hand. The sword is accompanied by a scabbard, crafted with care to mirror the original style.
- Overall length: 48″
- Blade length: 38″, width: 3-1/2″, thickness: 3/16″
- Weight: 3 lbs 8 oz
Fun fact: The flared blade design not only helps trap an opponent’s weapon but also enables half-swording techniques, where the fighter grips the blade itself to deliver precise thrusts or control the fight at very close quarters.
