Description
Circa 1500
This one-handed cut and thrust sword belongs to a distinctive group of German blades known as Saxon hilts. What sets this style apart is the lower ring guard, fitted with a solid metal plate shaped to catch and deflect an opponent’s blade point, preventing it from slipping through to the hand. The blade is carefully balanced by a substantial steel pommel, giving the wielder good control whether delivering cuts or thrusts. The guard itself is forged from solid steel, providing sturdy protection for the hand. The grip is made from wood, grooved to improve grip and wrapped tightly in leather to keep it steady in the heat of combat. This kind of sword was a reliable tool for foot soldiers and knights alike, often carried in a leather scabbard for protection and ease of transport.
- Overall length: 41 1/4″
- Blade length: 32 3/4″, width: 1 1/2″, thickness: 3/16″
- Weight: 3 lbs 6 oz
Fun fact: The Saxon hilt’s lower guard plate is sometimes called a “quillon” and was specifically designed to catch and trap an opponent’s blade, offering an edge in close-quarters fighting.
