Product description
This imposing hand-and-a-half sword, also known as a longsword, dates back to the late 14th century. While the exact origin of this European weapon is uncertain, markings suggest it may be German or Italian. It eventually made its way to the Arsenal of Alexandria, possibly as a diplomatic gift, war prize, or tribute from the Kingdom of Cyprus to the Sultanate of Egypt, where Arabic inscriptions were added. After passing through at least one private collection, it was acquired by the Royal Armouries.
The sword features a broad, powerful Oakeshott Type XVI blade measuring 96.5 cm in length. Despite its weight, which is considerable for the period due to the blade's size, the sword is well-balanced thanks to its distal taper, long grip, and large pommel. Swords of this design are commonly depicted in late 14th and early 15th-century art, including knightly effigies, manuscripts, and brasses. These versatile swords were popular across Europe—from England to Italy and Portugal to Poland—and were featured in contemporary combat treatises, such as Fior di Battaglia by Fiore dei Liberi (1410). They were effective in a variety of contexts: on foot or horseback, in armor or unarmored, and wielded with one or both hands. This particular type was designed for powerful cutting but was less specialized for thrusting compared to other longswords of the period.
This replica faithfully reproduces the original in terms of design, dimensions, and craftsmanship. The sheath has a wooden core, covered in leather, with a brass chape featuring intricate cut-outs and an acorn-shaped tip. The leather extends to the throat, partially covering the guard at the ricasso for added detail. Manufactured by Windlass Steelcrafts, the original sword is part of the Royal Armouries Collection (Object Number IX.915). Each replica comes with a certificate of authenticity printed on heavy stock.
Details:
Overall Length: 123.2 cm
Blade Length: 96.5 cm
Blade Width at Ricasso: 5.4 cm
Blade Distal Taper: 0.16 cm
Weight: 1700 g
Material: 1075 high carbon steel
Edge: semi-sharp
Balance Point: 9.2 cm from guard
Based on a historical original
Shipment weight (g): 2000 *
We do not sell this product to customers under the age of 18. Click here for more information on the European arms acts.
This item is produced in limited quantities only. This means that every piece is unique. Sizes & finish may vary lightly from piece to piece.
Prevent rust and corrosion by oiling your weapons regularly. Remove rust easily with black sandpaper. Remove burrs with a whetstone. Make sure you have removed all burrs before using a battle-ready weapon, as they can cause wounds.
Tip: How to adjust the finish of your armour and weaponry
Luxurious (polished)- polish the steel with metal polish or toothpaste. You can even give the item a mirror-like polish. Test on a small surface first!
Handmade (matte)- soak the steel in cola for 40 minutes to 20 hours. Check regularly and treat with black sandpaper.
Antique (patinated) leave the steel to rust for some time in a damp environment, preferably outside. Remove the red layer of rust, to reveal the corroded top layer.
Please note. After finishing the product yourself, the warranty and return right expire. Celtic WebMerchant is not responsible for the obtained result."
When packaging this item, we exclusively use 100% recycled plastic and recycled paper/cardboard from FSC certified forests. We reuse a large part of the material directly without the intervention of a recycling process.
Recycle the material by separating your waste:
1. Cardboard: separate or reuse your paper.
2. Plastic cushions, clothing bags and plastic tape: separate or reuse your plastic. If possible, pierce the cushions with a volume reduction needle.
3. Paper packaging for jewelry and small items: these have a plastic inner layer. Remove these, then separate your paper and plastic.
Read here about how we are committed to sustainability.
