Longsword, estoc, Royal Armouries, semi-sharp

Product description

The historical original of this one-and-a-half sword is dated between the mid and late 14th century. It was found in Lake Constance, at the tri-border area between Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, and is part of the collection of the Royal Armouries (object number IX.1106). Knightly swords like this were employed throughout Europe in the second half of the 14th century and served in battles such as that of Sempach in 1386.

This bastard sword features a rigid, tapering, double-edged blade with a sharp tip and a hand-and-a-half hilt that can be wielded both one-handed and two-handed. The blade has a simple, flattened diamond-shaped cross-section, whilst the imposing, large wheel-shaped pommel has a complex and subtle design. This type of sword was likely utilised by armoured men and knights, typically one-handed on horseback or two-handed on foot. The sword appears to be fully specialised for armoured combat and half-swording (where the blade is held with one hand), owing to the remarkable stiffness and mass of the blade. The cutting geometry was rather blunt, but the blade possessed considerable power in the strike. Similarly, the heavy pommel could be effectively employed in close combat.

This replica is crafted with a hand-forged blade by an experienced blacksmith, using modern 1080 high-quality carbon steel, fully hardened (48-52 HRC) and with a tapered thickness for good weight distribution. The scabbard has a wooden core and is covered with leather. The tip is reinforced with a brass fitting that features a traditional cut-out. At the collar, the leather runs up and covers part of the hilt at the ricasso. Includes a certificate of authenticity and a polishing cloth.