"From Historically Accurate Replicas to Full on, 'Tough as they Come' Beaters"
When it comes to medieval swords, there is a massive and ever growing range to choose from.
But in our sub US$300 price range (ignoring the purely decorative pieces) we can narrow down the selection to two main categories of functional replicas.
The first is what I call "entry level historical swords". In other words affordably priced replicas that approximate the overall appearance and handling characteristics of the originals.
The second category is less concerned with historical accuracy (at least as far as appearance goes) but focuses on producing a much more durable sword that's able to
withstand tremendous levels of abuse. These swords are called "beaters".
So - with the differences between beaters and entry level swords established (at least, by my definition); let's take a look at some of the replica medieval swords on offer...!
NEED HELP FINDING YOUR PERFECT SWORD?
It's a looong page and there are a lot of reviews here - but if you want to just want some recommendations based on what you are looking for in a good Medieval sword...
There are several companies making reasonably historically accurate (or at least historically plausible) replicas of medieval swords in our
sub US$300 price bracket. Probably the best known functional replicas are made by either Windlass Steelcrafts (also known as MRL) or Paul Chen's Hanwei
Forge (distributed by CAS Iberia). However, in recent years Valiant Armory has been creating quite a stir with their range of medieval swords designed by and made to the specs of the legendary 'Angus Trim' - and while these are a little more expensive than Windlass or Cas Iberia, the value for money factor is off the charts and helped to redefine what is possible for entry level medieval swords.
Windlass Medieval Swords
Windlass Steelcrafts of India dominate the market for affordable historically
accurate/plausible medieval swords and are extremely popular.
Indeed one of my favorite swords of all time is the Windlass
European Sword - so much so that it used to be the sword pictured in the first generation SBG logo!
The Old SBG Logo, featuring the Windlass European Sword
Windlass Medieval Swords have some of the best heat treated blades in the business, using (to quote from their official website) “state of the art temperature controlled electric furnaces”.
Flex testing Windlass Steelcrafts Discontinued European Sword reveals its excellent tensile strength.
The end result of this process is a very strong, consistent and flexible blade, though their longer swords (hand and a half and longer) tend to be just a tad too
flexible and are often characterized as somewhat - er - "whippy".
Due to Indian export laws, Windlass swords do not come sharp out of the box, though most sellers offer a sharpening service for a nominal additional fee and they
aren't that hard to sharpen manually.
On the positive side, Windlass sword handle quite nicely. And as they generally fall within the weight and balance parameters of the original medieval swords
they are based upon, I've found them to be an excellent choice for economical training swords (though the 1mm thick blades are still sharp enough to cut light targets
and as such they are NOT recommended for reenactment purposes!).
While their range of medieval swords is quite mind boggling - this can also quite frustrating when it comes to evaluating their swords. Few swords are available
for more than 1 or 2 runs at best, and they seem to discontinue some of their best models without any apparent reason...
Because of this, it is very difficult to present to you as many reviews of a Windlass sword that is still currently available as we can of those that have been
discontinued. However, while we try to keep at least one or two currently available sword reviewed - I think you'll also find that the archived reviews below are fairly
representative of type and give you some idea of the pros and cons of this popular brands replica medieval swords...
WINDLASS Sword Reviews
"15th Century Long sword"
Windlass Steelcrafts
PRICE: US$169 to $225
OVERVIEW: A well balanced sword that is a decent historical replica, though somewhat 'whippy' and the intricate fittings are a little sloppily executed...
OVERVIEW: Exceptional handling, but very slightly on the 'whippy' side and with a few minor cosmetic flaws, the Erbach is a solid 4 star sword and is very close to the historical original that it is based upon. Currently closing out.
The medieval swords by the Hanwei Forge (distributed by CAS Iberia) initially received a mixed reception when first released several years ago,
mostly due to particularily thin tangs which caused some early breakages...
These early problems have since been fixed. However, some new ones continue to surface: mostly along the lines of being either rather blunt, having some issues with pommels falling off, etc.
Despite the fact that the vast majority of Hanwei’s swords are reasonably well made for the money, it is extremely important to buy from a seller with a good return policy and excellent
reputation for customer service and after sale care as much as price, because a large part of the quality control falls to the actual vendor on their 'classic' range of swords.
But don't write them off just yet - because if you buy from the right place and get a good one, as you will see below, they can be quite an impressive piece for the money...
Hanwei's Hand and a Half Sword
Review by Jean-Pierre Francoeur, Toronto, CANADA
This sword is a replica of the sword of King Ulbrecht of Austria. It is a true 1 and 1/2 hand sword. The balance on this weapon is absolutely incredible. At just 3 lbs 4oz
it is light enough to be swung effectively with one hand. With both hands, it is capable of devastating cuts.
The handle is wood, covered in string, than leather for a sure grip. The oversized pommel give this sword a perfect balance. The blade is carbon steel and, once sharpened,
will hold a great edge even after numerous cuts.
Even if this sword is very simple, and therefore not an immediate eye catcher, the finish is flawless, as it is the case with most European swords by Paul Chen.
Overall, this sword was a great addition to my already extensive collection and at just around $300, is an absolute must for any collector who wants a functional sword at a great price.
WHERE TO BUY
The Hanwei Forge Hand and a Half Sword, like most Hanwei Forge swords, has a price tag that fluctuates quite wildly on the internet - typically
hovering under or over the US$300 mark (the recommended retail price is $319) though there are a few sellers who offer it for around the $250 mark.
However, I have found that the best overall deal for this sword is
here at Kult of Athena">Kult of
Athena where they sell it for a ridiculously low $199.95.
Plus, as Hanwei's quality control can sometimes be a bit questionable, this site also has a 45 return policy - one of the fairest on the internet, not to mention a price matching guarantee should you somehow find it somewhere else for less (which isn't very likely.. Their nearest competitor sells it for around $40 more!).
Expanded Review and Durability Testing
After reading the above review, Mike "Shootermike" Harris made this sword his second purchase, and around 37 odd swords later (including many
much higher end pieces) and a whole lot of useage, the review below shows how it has stood the test of time...
Click on the image above for the expanded review.
HANWEI/CAS Sword Reviews
"Albrecht Sword"
Hanwei Forge
PRICE: US$199 to $359
OVERVIEW:Undoubtedly Hanwei's best medieval sword from their classic series, with excellent handling, cutting ability, durability, historical accuracy and appearance - for around $200, what more could you ask for..?
OVERVIEW:Big, simple, not all that sharp - but as tough as nails and very well made, most Claymores under $300 are simply not worth worrying about. This one is the exception..
When Valiant Armoury was taken over by Sonny Suttles in 2006, he instigated a process that would revolutionize what was possible in the entry level end of the medieval swords market...
Teaming up with two of the most respected North American sword makers, Angus Trim and Christian Fletcher, they began creating two lines of swords designed to the exacting specifications
of Gus and Christian, but produced by some of the best forges in mainland China. And the end result is the Practical and Signature lines: the Practical line based on basic Gus Trim blades,
and the Signature line featuring the same blades but with high quality custom styled furniture designed by Christian.
While still in the early days, with many more designs yet to come, the results are very encouraging: so stay tuned, much more is yet to come from this innovative company!
VALIANT ARMOURY Sword Reviews
"Signature Series Kriegschwert"
Valiant Armoury
PRICE: US$399 to $499
OVERVIEW: Fantastically light weight, beautifully balanced and extremely attractive - the Kriegschwert is an extremely popular sword, and while at $400 is relatively expensive, the value for money ratio is off the chart with these Christian Fletcher and Angus Trim designed blades.
OVERVIEW: Probably the best handling, best made and best priced Long Sword on the market of all time - the ONLY real drawback to these swords is that supply doesn't even come close to demand... Simply an amazing piece...
OVERVIEW: Designed by Christian Fletcher and Angus Trim, the first sword in the Signature Series range - the Castile is both very attractive, durable and powerful.
OVERVIEW: Not quite as perfect as it's stunning bigger brother the Long Sword, the Arming sword is still an exceptional piece and has few peers at this price point. A VERY good buy and highly recommended.
Our overview of entry level historically accurate/plasuible medieval swords would be incomplete without mentioning Del Tin Armi Antiche (aka Del Tin).
In the early days, Del Tin used to be THE premier name for very strong and well made replica medieval swords (since 1965!), but until recently the
influx of other swords on the market and the 10 month wait period was not a good sign for this well regarded Italian company...
However, respected sword sellers Kult of Athena have recently brought them into the 21st century, stocking a wide range of Del Tin Swords at their
usual low mark up prices. And now a whole new generation of sword enthusiasts can see what all the fuss was about - without the wait and without the hassle of importing them direct from Italy...
Del Tin Sword Reviews
"Sword #5155"
Del Tin Armi Antiche
PRICE: US$487
OVERVIEW: Hand made by one of the oldest medieval sword makers still around, and now avaialble directly in North America instead of having to import from Italy, these stunning swords - while not perfect - are pretty darned close and well worth the price, even with all the recent competition...
Of course, it should go without saying, but not all replica medieval swords labelled as "battle ready" are in fact anything of the sort.
While Deepeeka of India make some reasonably good sub US$100 medieval swords, not all of them are designed to be anything even remotely functional,
even though they are sometimes labelled as such and the review below details one such horror story...
Click on the image above for the full review
But not all cheap medieval swords are horror stories...
Indeed, one company - Strongblade - specializes in their own line of sub US$150 swords, and while Windlass is still most definitely their closest competitor, almost everyone who has tried one agrees that they make a pretty decent blade for the price...
STRONGBLADE Reviews
"Warspike"
Strongblade
PRICE: US$149
OVERVIEW: Simple, honest, strong and good value - this new product line is a great choice for those on a budget, even if these unsharpened swords are a little plain.
OVERVIEW: Not quite as nice as the 'Warspike' (reviewed above) it's still definitely a good sword, though for a single hander there are better choices for around the same price..
A decent beater is designed to be much more durable than a historical sword ever was, and can withstand just about anything you want to throw at
it (actually, just about every functional modern replica sword is tougher than historical medieval swords ever were - thanks to the quality of modern
steel - but good beaters are designed specifically to go well beyond what a historical sword could ever do).
For example, Bill Tsafa (pictured right) spends a lot of time weeding out the less durable beaters by slamming them repeatedly into his home made tire pell...
An act that is downright unthinkable for a truly historically accurate blade.
But the very best beaters though aren't just big and tough - they also handle more like the historical originals than the 'sharpened crowbars' made by some beater manufacturers...
GENERATION 2 MEDIEVAL SWORDS
When it comes to selecting 'built like a tank' medieval swords (that DON'T handle like one) only a couple of sword makers spring to mind. And at the top of the list would have to be:
Generation 2
In the early days it's true that Generation 2's medieval swords used to handle a lot like 'sharpened crowbars' - heavy, powerful - and about as graceful as an ox.
But not anymore...
BLAST FROM THE PAST
While it may not be as relevant today as it was when these tests were first performed, the review above showed exactly how much damage the earlier models could dish out and take...
But the more things change, the more they stay the same, and the current batch have been carefully designed to retain as much of their original reputation as ‘beaters’ as possible.
While they are still forged 'the old fashioned way' by hand in the Philippines, these medieval swords have recently been reshaped with a traditional distal taper, making them
considerably faster in the hand and more manoeuvrable than ever before.
While this process was long, harrowing and subject to numerous unforseen setbacks and problems - the final result are medieval swords combining the qualities of durability
and handling, making them some of the most truly functional sub US$300 medieval swords on the market.
So much so that towards the end of 2006 one of the worlds most prominent sword experts - the late Mr. Hank Reinhardt - selected Generation 2 to produce a line bearing
his name based on several antique medieval swords from his own extensive collection.
An open letter from the Late Sword Historian, Mr. Hank Reinhardt..
"I have had people question me regarding the affiliation with Gen 2 swords, since I never carried any Filipino made swords at MRL.
The answer is very simple.
The swords we looked at were case hardened and not fully tempered. Case hardening is where the surface of the steel is treated with carbon.
The metal is heated up and soaked, and then quenched. This leaves a hard edge, but the interior of the sword is soft. After being sharpened a few times, the hard portion
is worn away, and only soft metal remains. More importantly, the body of the sword is not tempered.
However the Gen 2 swords are fully heated treated (tempered) all the way through. The swords I have looked at have all be a good quality sword,
made with good steel and capable of being used. In reality they are better than the original, since the metal and the heat treating more consistent than swordmakers were able to get
in the past.
So what you get are good quality swords at an affordable price.
In addition, the fit and finish that I have seen is better than a large majority of swords from other sources. The swords, and the
sword prices, should speak for themselves, and they do.
- Hank Reinhardt
Hank Reinhardt Testing Generation 2 swords on chainmail covered meat. The chainmail was cut open, with only minor cosmetic damage to the blade.
GENERATION 2 Sword Reviews
"The Black Prince"
Generation 2
PRICE: US$233 to $259
OVERVIEW: Simple looking, but very honest, the Black Prince is so popular supply rarely meets demand - mostly because it is one of the most authentic handling and strongest medieval swords on the market..
OVERVIEW: Despite a few cosmetic issues, the Gen2 Irish sword is both fast handling, solidly constructed and very durable - making it a great value for money buy.
OVERVIEW: Based on the 1981 movie 'Excalibur' - while this stunning sword is now discontinued and unavailable, there are still a few options for die hard fans of the movie that we look at towards the end of the review... A shame to see this particular sword go though...
Canadian based sword makers Darksword Armory are a rare exception for sword makers in the sub US$300 price range in that they don’t have their line of medieval swords made off-shore
in India, the Philippines or China: they actually hand forge them by hand in CANADA...!
This alone makes them stand out as unique. But the attractive and utilitarian design of their super tough 1060 carbon steel blades has to be experienced first hand to be believed.
Destructive Testing by one of the Darksword Armoury crew reveals just how strong the blade and assembly of these swords is!
Designed for the rigours of steel on steel, their non-sharpened medieval swords are indeed somewhat overbuilt and while most are much heavier and beefier than a historical
sword of the same type might be - they make up for this with an emphasis on handling dynamics, creating beaters that are as tough as the legendary Starfire Swords and Badger Blades,
but without the high price tag, molasses slow handling and modern looking appearance...
Make no mistake. These are the true durable heavyweights of their class, and while they may not be to everyone's taste, for those who like their swords practically indestructible
and massively powerful, you'll find these swords are right up your alley.
After hearing from several people about their swords, notably our resident Darksword Armoury reviewer and fan Jason Woodard and becoming curious enough to even consider
adding them to the SBG Sword Store line up - it was pretty clear that I had to push one to the limits to see if they were worthy of inclusion...
And I have to say, I am glad I did! The sword tested performed well above any other sub US$300 medieval swords currently on the market - and while it wasn't perfect, as
far as sheer durability goes - all I can say is, you HAVE TOsee these tests for yourself to understand.
DARKSWORD ARMORY Sword Reviews
"Medieval Knight Sword"
Darksword Armory
PRICE: US$259 to $310
OVERVIEW: My first Darksword Armory sword and still my favorite, the medieval Knight has it all: excellent handling, beautiful aesthetics and is as tough as they come! Review includes extensive destructive durability testing. Highly recommeneded.
OVERVIEW: Truly amazing value for money and a whole lot of steel for the price, this sword is both amazingly tough, beautifully crafted and historically accurate - a solid 5 star sword.
OVERVIEW: The sister sword of the amazing Knight sword, it is both visually very attractive and amazingly powerful, plus like all DSA blades has seen some major improvements over the last few months..
OVERVIEW: Ornate and exceptionally powerful, the only drawback to this sword is that it is extremely heavy - but despite this very well balanced and about as durable as any sword can possibly be...
OVERVIEW: Well balanced, but quite heavy for a single handed sword, the Credy War Sword is none-the-less one of DSA's toughest swords, and also one of their cheapest...
After reading the Test to Destruction of the Darksword Armory Medieval Knightly sword,
Jason Woodard, the gentleman who first introduced me to Darksword Armory, decided to push a couple of his own DSA medieval swords to the limit.
Click the image above to see the results...
A Brief Word on 'Elite' Level Medieval Swords...
For some people, the most important factor when selecting their medieval swords is strict historical accuracy: not just in appearance, but in handling and design.
And the general consensus in the sword community is if you want a sword that looks, handles and feels as close to the originals as possible (and have the money to spend) -
most people in the know recommend Albion Armorers
"These medieval swords are truly as close as you can get to the real thing (without going custom or buying an actual antique) and are very popular with well to do history buffs..."
While the construction methods may be very modern, each of their medieval swords is the result of many countless hours of museum research and testing to produce a sword that
weighs, handles and performs the same as the original antiques they are based upon.
Naturally, swords like this command quite a premium, with price tags for their next Generation medieval swords starting at around US$600 and going up to the US$1000 mark
(and well beyond, even the simple, rather plain scabbards cost more than most of the swords reviewed above!).
And yes, there are often lengthy delays between ordering one and having it made and delivered. But is it worth it? Why not have a look at some reviews below and make up your own mind...
ALBION SWORD Reviews
"The Ritter"
Albion
PRICE: US$775 to $800
OVERVIEW: Some argue that the cost to value ratio is not completely justified, but price aside, few can argue that these swords are about as close to perfect as any production sword can come...
You can find a whole host of great information on mid to high level production and custom made medieval swords and armour at
www.myarmoury.com including numerous cool articles, hands on reviews, wallpapers, forums and much, much more.
Highly recommended and a very nicely laid out and professional site.
It's also recommended that you check out anything written by the late great master sword Scholar, Ewart Oakeshott - in particular his signature work "Records of the Medieval
Sword" (pictured right).
Some other good sites for sword reviews and testing information complimentary to SBG include the Italian based website
Battlesword.com where they review and test numerous swords in our
price range (and a few beyond it) with a few to blade on blade performance from a stage steel perspective.
Closer to home, Swords of Valor is a site developed by Jason from Arms of Valor and sword customizer Brian Kunz that
includes some additional and complimentary sword tests and reviews. With ongoing comparative brand testing, it is an invaluable resource from a sword seller who isn't
just a vendor, but a LONG time sword enthusiast like the rest of us...
A very refreshing approach, check it out below.
QUICK RECOMMENDATIONS BY PAUL
Find A Sword System for Ancient Swords
SIMPLY SELECT ONE OF THE STATEMENTS BELOW AND WE'LL GIVE YOU SBG's BEST RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR PERFECT SWORD!
For discussions and further information on functional replica medieval swords, check out the: SBG Sword Forum
FREE Online Magazine
Stay up to date with all the latest tips on how to get the best deals when you buy swords online, plus win competitions, get free gift vouchers, read interviews,
learn sword fighting techniques and much, MUCH more.
"Massive savings on closeout and one of a kind medieval swords at at Museum Replicas (MRL)!!"
One of the oldest, and most respected sword sellers still around (starting from Catalog sales in the 1970s by none other than the legendary Hank Reinhardt) - Museum Replicas are well known for their wide range of collectibles and the full current range of Windlass Steelcrafts swords (after all they are now OWNED by Windlass!).
And even many years later, they still hold the genuine commitment to customer service that Hank instilled in the business - with one of the most hassle free return policies in the industry.
Lovers of medieval swords often visit MRL to check out the low prices on their recently discontinued swords in their Last chance section, as well as get brand new releases before anyone else, check out one of a kind Limited Edition swords and other releases in their Sample Room (many quality limited edition swords available for under $100!).
And that's just the tip of the iceberg (they also sell offically licensed collectibles, medieval themed gifts/toys and have one of the largest selections of costumes anywhere on the internet!).
Aside from being an extremely interesting site to visit to see what's new, what is coming up and see what is being liquidated (and what bargains are on offer) - MRL are also happy to offer a huge 10% discount to all SBG visitors across their ENTIRE RANGE!!
For 10% off EVERYTHING at MRL, the Coupon Code is: sbgweb
My recommendation is to checkout the pages I've linked to above and see what kind of bargain you can get when you add in this discount; but be warned - their site and the kind of savings you can pick up with this discont are a down right addictive combination!!
Check out their full range of swords, medieval weapons and decor (plus so much more):
P.S. You can also use the SBG discounts if you place a phone order too (1-800-883-8838), just tell them you want to use the 'sbgphone' discount code and they'll give you 10% off on the spot.
If you just need a sword fix - and you need it NOW - feel free to use our interactive
online
directory of tried and trustworthy vendors, or even better, select one of the pre-screened quality budget swords from the
SBG Sword Store and help support our endeavours at the same time.
FREE ONLINE MAGAZINE
Sign up for our monthly newsletter 'the Sword Buyers Digest'!
