Sword Virgin!

willOthewisp

willOthewisp

Joined
Jul 20, 2000
Messages
626
I'm referring, of course, to myself.

I've been toying with the idea of picking one up for some time. I recently picked up a balisong-type sword, in the hope that it would sate my appetite & keep me from spending a whole lot more ... Happily, the reverse is true. Holding it feels just too good! (I realise, of course, that it is not a combat-grade item.)

To make a long story not quite as long, I'm now at a point where a sword purchase is nearly an inevitability - and thus I go into research mode, and ... here I am.

I've always been more interested in European blades w/ the medieval aesthetic than Asian. It's the usually cleverly hidden Goth in me, I guess.

So, two (make that three) questions:

1) Recommended reading for a sword virgin? Other than the FAQ page at swordforums, I'm headed there shortly. Something along the lines of a general overview, or, better, something focussing on European broadswords?

2) Suggestions for manufacturers/makers to look into? I don't have a real price range in mind just yet, but I'm definitely not out to spend thousands. Say, $400-ish and lower, and still suitable for combat?

3) Martial art? Quite a bit of research on it's own, but, since I'll eventually have one, I'd like to know how to use it, for any number of reasons. I don't expect to really have to worry about this aspect for a few months, but I figured I'd ask while I'm here.

I'm pretty much clueless here, so, if there's something I should have asked, or anything you guys can do to help me get started in the right direction, I'd appreciate it very much.

Thanks in advance,
Jon
 
Hey Jon,

For the research on swords part I would suggest Ewart Oakeshott's "The Sword in the Age of Chivalry." An entertaining and informative read. After that you can pick which Type of European medieval sword you like the best. The I would suggest heading over to www.christianfletcher.com and taking a look at the swords he has. They are made by a guy by the name of Angus Trim and they are something really special performance wise. If you want something that is also a performer but a heck of a lot prettier (and pricier) check out my other all time favorite in production swords. www.armor.com. To find more sword nuts check out www.swordforum.com, www.netsword.com and www.thehaca.com. Welcome aboard!
 
I tried to post a reply to this earlier today, and the forum "ate" it when I hit the submit button.

Fortunately Triton came in and posted pretty much exactly what I would have told you, right down to the Christian Fletcher recommendation.

I've dealt with Christian Fletcher, and have to say that I wish I were half as satisfied by all my other sword transactions as I am with CF. GREAT people to do business with.

I also recommended HACA as an excellent learning resource and will "Ditto" Triton on that one.

About the only thing more I have to offer is this link;
http://www.algonet.se/~enda/oakeshot_eng.htm

This is an online version of Ewart Oakeshott's Sword typology.
Very helpful in learning about many of the different types of swords out there.

Good luck, and let us know what you decide.
:D
 
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