I´m wavering between the Norman and the Norseman Sword (both made by Valiant Armoury). Which one would you prefer?

QUESTION: Hi there! ;-)

I´m all enthusiastic about buying my first real sword, but I´m still not quite sure which one to choose. Well, you need to know - I´m living in Germany, and supply is rather limited over here (unfortunately!). So basically there are two battle-ready swords available which are fitting my taste. These are: the Norseman Sword and the Norman Sword, both produced by Valiant Armoury.

The Norseman looks pretty nice, I think, but 4 lbs. 3oz. sounds pretty heavy to me. Thus, what I´d like to know - is such a sword just too heavy to be of any practical use, or is the actual weight not a great handicap at all if the sword is well-balanced (the dealer says the balance is very good!)?

The Norman Sword is about 3 lbs. 4 oz., by the way.

Maybe you know one of these two swords already; I would be really grateful if you could give me some tips which one you would take. Which one is, in your evaluation, the better sword (handling, stability, sharpness, finish etc.)?

Thanks a lot!!! ;-)

Greetings from Europe, Mike

PS: Really great website!

ANSWER:Hi Mike,

I haven't handled the Norman, but I have the Norseman here with me pending review, so I can make a few comments on it.

It is a very solid sword, and looks pretty nice - but it is simply too heavy for practical use. I have found it doesn't have a great edge and cannot really generate enough speed to cut properly.

It is nice as a training sword for building muscle and I would imagine that if you used it this way, when you switch to a less weighty sword, you'd find it would feel like a toothpick and your speed with it would be amazing. But otherwise, sorry - can't really recommend this particular piece.

Hope this helps.

- Paul