From the late 12th century to the early 14th there was probably no type of sword that was so common as this style of sword (what Ewart Oakeshott classified as a Type XIIIb). Many of the finest surviving historical examples currently extant along with literally innumerable examples from period paintings and sculpture are of this type. The type is so common that for many when the phrase knightly sword is mentioned this is the sword that comes to mind. This type of single-hand sword was in continuous widespread use at least from 1150 to 1300.
This sword handles rather well. As can be noted above, the point of balance is pushed out toward the tip of the blade, but is typical and appropriate for this type of sword. This balance point is not pushed out so far as to make the sword seem blade heavy, but instead gives it a very solid presence. This sword feels like the one that you would want to slam into an opponent's shield without having serious qualms about the consequences. In cutting tests this sword preformed reasonably well against soft targets and excelled against harder targets. Quarter-inch thick plywood was no problem for this sword. Throughout the testing process the sword stayed tight with no rattling or noticeable damage to the edge. Visually this is very attractive: to many, it is the epitome of the double-edged knightly sword of the Crusades. The solid brass crossguard is emblazoned with the motto: in hoc signo vinces, meaning “in this sign shalt thou conquer” which was the motto used by Constantine the Great, from his vision, before battle, of a cross bearing these words. The motto also appears on the Grand Standard of a Commandery of Knights Templar.
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CAUTION – THIS IS A FULLY FUNCTIONAL MARTIAL WEAPON – DECOMISSION THE BLADE BEFORE WALL MOUNTING. DO NOT USE FOR SPARRING. DO NOT USE FOR THEATRICAL OR RE-ENACTMENT PURPOSES. CHECK THE LAWS IN YOUR STATE OR COUNTRY PERTAINING TO WEAPONS OWNERSHIP BEFORE MAKING YOUR PURCHASE. STORE SAFELY AND HANDLE WITH CAUTION.
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I have two very minor complaints. One that it didn't come as sharp as I would have liked ( which is easily fixable) and two, the scabbard is quite loose. But apart from those this is a great sword and a worthy addition to anyone's collection. The aesthetics of this sword alone make it great, the Latin being a beautiful touch. Lachlan on 7th Sep 2017
I was hoping for a lighter weighted sword than my Irish two handed sword which I purchased from you. But anyway really can't complain this sword is a outstanding. Unknown on 27th Jul 2016
This sword's structure has been perfectly made with no "looseness" of the blade while having a beautiful leather scabbard to match. However, i found that the sword had a few faults with the pommel being scratched, and the leather hilt. But all of theses things are cosmetic to the sword and hardly effect its outstanding performance. Michelle on 21st Apr 2016