Looking to buy my first sword!

S

ssolok

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Dec 25, 2015
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I've always wanted to have swords, and I think I will finally buy one. I've researched what to look for, what brands to buy from, and things like that. What I'm looking for is a medieval straight sword style mostly, but I also like a variety of sword styles, basically comes down to looks after that. I am looking for a battle ready sword and I don't need it to be super light, I like the heavy feel. My arm span from heart to finger tip is about 35", so I figure a blade length of around that is good for me. I am looking to spend between $200-400 final price. I am considering a few, which I hope to get some feedback on.

This one is a hand and a half bastard sword:
[Two non-BF dealers showing a Hanwei Bastard Sword.]

Both links seem to show the same sword, but for very different prices. Is one a sharp version, and one a display version? The one for a lower price has a so-so review and says it's not really sharp enough to cut things. The one for the higher price has no reviews to go by, so I don't know if there is a difference. I just really like the dimensions and look.

I also really like these two that I came across:
[Tinker Pearce Viking sword]
[Windlass Steelcrafts Viking sword]
 
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I guess you can't post external links on this forum, so I won't. I just came across this sword and it looks like a possible winner. It's the Cold Steel hand and a half sword.
 
I think you can post external links and photos and such, but just not links to dealers who are selling the swords themselves, or something like that.
 
Welcome aboard. Refer to manufactuerer model numbers and pictures when you can, so people can better reply to inquiries. Playing twenty questions guessing what someone is discussing gets tiresome.

For instance, there is a Hanwei Bastard in two versions and Hanwei/Tinker bastards in at least two versions with a third blunt. What model number are you regarding.

There are many Windlass viking swords, so again a model number will speak volumes. That said, The Hanwei/Tinker Viking a better working value than most of the Windlass viking swords.

Kult of Athena is a good site to browse, as much of the market is listed and will list sharp vs blunt along with basic specifications.

As you have been looking on the net, add review to your search terms and you can find a lot of feedback.

Blade length of hand&half swords can be very subjective depending on experience or following certain schools of swordsmanship. Silver (for a for instance) describes both single and his two hand sword as having the same blade lengths. Depending on types of swordsmanship, I favor both shorter and longer blades whether or not it is a single hand sword.

Cheers

GC
 
CS quality control on swords is..dicey as of late. (Check Kult of Athena's "Seconds" section). It'd be different if you can actually look the thing over in person if possible. They're also somewhat heavy. Still, don't discount them, they may be what you want, and come sharp. Windlass stuff can be okay, good for beginners. Cheap. Polish, etc, may be a bit lacking, they're made in India. That being said I own a few Windlass items and am satisfied with them for what I paid. Expect to pay extra for sharpening.

+1 on the Tinkers. Good Swords. Should be no problems right out of the box.
 
The Hanwei Hand and a Half Sword - SH2365 was an initial contender when I was first looking for a "short 2 handed sword" that could be used for Chinese Sword Training.. Reviews are generally good.

Came real close to buying it but then decided it was still too long overall, for my needs. It comes in at 38" overall; what I ultimately got is 28.5".
 
Sorry for the delayed response, it's been a busy month. You should be able to email me now. I'll try to get model numbers for swords in the future. I ended up ordering a cold steel hand and a half just to see what it was like, hopefully didn't get burned by QC issues...
 
I found this web site from a paying maker (Archer Here) - they make some very interesting swords and large knives at a reasonable price -

http://traditionalarcherybows.com/custom_handmade_ancient_and_fantasy_swords_p4.html

I do not own any, but the appear to be quality made and have good value, the steel appears to be good and the heat treat sounds right -

I was looking at the large smatchet - but they have many designs - something for almost every taste -

good luck -

best

mqqn
 
ssolok said:
Sorry for the delayed response, it's been a busy month. You should be able to email me now. I'll try to get model numbers for swords in the future. I ended up ordering a cold steel hand and a half just to see what it was like, hopefully didn't get burned by QC issues...
Click to expand...

Please Let us know. I remember that the quality control issue with this sword was that the handle could come loose. This could cause the blade to "fly off" when in use. My information is over 5 years old, so this issue might have been resolved. Cold Steel swords are often heavier than comparable swords from other makers....that being said, they are tough!
 
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