Kevin Cashen Small Sword......Coop, help!

Kohai999 said:
The small sword in this case is both a cut(sharp edge) and thrust sword, and would need some meat or "niku"(japanese term) in order to support that, with the thin width.
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And that's what I was wondering when I mentioned a "transitional" piece. Somewhere between a rapier and the later classic smallswords that were almost totally for thrusting (yet still had sharpened edges.) Most of these later smallswords I've seen stats for were usually in the 10 oz -1 pound range, and I recall one that was 18 oz.

In no way am I attempting to denigrate the sword here; I'm merely curious about the inspiration for the design.
 
congratulations, steven, what an amazing synthesis of art and craftsmanship!

hans
 
STeven,
I'm with Keith. :D
Congratulations on this stunning Damascus Sword.
Belongs in a museum,what a stunning heirloom. :thumbup: :cool:

Doug
 
I have to agree. This is definitely a family heirloom.

Beautifully conceived and constructed. 32 ounces -- this is not too heavy for a small sword, particularly one designed for actual use (as opposed to a display piece only -- for parades and special events). If the sword has no weight, you cannot turn away your opponent's sword.

Everyone else has already commented on the beautiful blade. I rather like the classic lines of the hilt and cross/hand guard. Simple, elegant, true to the period.

Have you thought about how you'll display this piece? It's far too beautiful to be shut away in a safe.
 
the possum said:
And that's what I was wondering when I mentioned a "transitional" piece. Somewhere between a rapier and the later classic smallswords that were almost totally for thrusting (yet still had sharpened edges.) Most of these later smallswords I've seen stats for were usually in the 10 oz -1 pound range, and I recall one that was 18 oz.

In no way am I attempting to denigrate the sword here; I'm merely curious about the inspiration for the design.
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Possum...

No umbrage is taken here, and I think that I understand your question, but part of it would have to do with Kevin himself.

He doesn't make fancy lad, whippy, showy-no go-ey blades.

Court swords(called small swords in England) were indispensable accessories to a GENTLEMAN'S attire in the 18th Century. They were pretty light and whippy.

As warfare changed from "arms" to firearms, swords and spears(In both the East and West) became showier, and less wieldy, either being noodles or sledges. Am sure that don't need to tell you this, but am bringing it up for those that might not know the history. It is very possible that Kevin found a transition piece from rapier to court sword, equally possible that he knew what he wanted to make.

Got to handle the sword last October so knew what I was getting. For me it is perfect; almost tailor/specifically made. For someone with less cutting/sword experience and larger hands, it might not be so.

As far as being in a museum, there are many examples across the world of this style of sword. It is my hope that it is handed down within the family and is reverently cared for generations to come.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
 
OldPhysics said:
Have you thought about how you'll display this piece? It's far too beautiful to be shut away in a safe.
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Well, with my other swords, of course.:D

I have a whole wall of them in my office.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
 
Steven,

Just stunning from tip to hilt and I agree with Keith, but for me, one that nice gets me to thinking things I have no business thinking.

The blade alone looks like a great accomplishment in forging and grinding.
That looks like a symmetrical dagger grind. Everything there blows me away and it all fits.

Congratulations!

Gus
 
Kohai999 said:
Well, with my other swords, of course.:D

I have a whole wall of them in my office.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson
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Hey, where's your office located? Me and my homies wanna do a little bit of Midnight shopping! :p ;) :D
 
Kohai999 said:
Am sure that don't need to tell you this, but am bringing it up for those that might not know the history...

Court swords(called small swords in England) were indispensable accessories to a GENTLEMAN'S attire in the 18th Century. They were pretty light and whippy.
Click to expand...

Since you brought up the history, I think it would be just as well to point out swords of the same designs and less decorative were also produced, and were considered real weapons just as much as their fancy counterparts.

Likewise, though they may have been light, I'm not sure I could describe them as "whippy". Keep in mind most were very thick at the base and through the length, as is needed in a thrusting weapon for stiffness. The lightness was achieved via deeply hollow grinding one side of the blade while adding a single deep fuller on the other. The result was a blade nearly triangular or "V" shaped in cross section, almost like a sharpened piece of angle iron. (high rigidity to weight ratio)

Many medieval longsword blades will sag under their own weight if held horizontally, but I don't think I'd call those "whippy" either. :)

Kohai999 said:
It is very possible that Kevin found a transition piece from rapier to court sword, equally possible that he knew what he wanted to make.
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On that last point, I am certain I can agree. ;)
 
Beautiful sword STeven. I love Kevin's work.
Great photos too. You're right, you probably couldn't photograph it any better even if you did know how to turn on a digital camera :D .
:thumbup:
 
It's interesting that you considered this as an heirloom. I understand. I have a carving set made by William Burger, that I commissioned from start to finish.

Like you, I've always wished that this would be part of the Cooper's household(s) for many years.

Coop
 
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