14th Century Hand-and-a-Half Sword

14th Century Hand-and-a-Half Sword

A formidable hand-and-a-half sword or longsword, likely dating back to the late 14th century.

This imposing knightly sword features a broad and powerful Oakeshott Type XVI blade, measuring 38 inches. Despite its length and width, the blade's distal taper, long grip, and large pommel contribute to its excellent balance. Similar swords are extensively depicted in late 14th and early 15th-century art, including manuscripts, knightly effigies, and brasses.

These swords were widely popular across Europe during this period, from England to Italy, Portugal to Poland. They are featured in numerous contemporary fighting treatises, such as Fiore dei Liberi's "Fior di Battaglia" (1410). They were used both on foot and horseback, with or without armor, and could be wielded with one or two hands. This particular example is a potent cutting weapon, less specialized for thrusting than some other longswords of the time.

This replica closely mirrors the original in terms of form, measurements, and manufacturing techniques.

The sheath is constructed with a wooden core and covered in leather. The tip is reinforced with an ornate brass chape featuring cut-outs and an acorn tip. The leather extends upward at the throat, covering part of the guard at the ricasso.

Crafted by Windlass Steelcrafts, the original can be admired in the Royal Armouries Collection (Object Number IX.915).

Includes a certificate of authenticity.

Specifications:

• Overall Length: 123.2 cm (48.5 inches)
• Blade Length: 96.5 cm (38 inches)
• Blade Width at Ricasso: 5.4 cm (2 1/8 inches)
• Blade Distal Taper: 0.16 cm (5/32 inch)
• Weight: 1700 g (3 lbs 13 oz)
• Material: 1075 high carbon steel
• Edge: Double-edged with bevels, unsharpened
• Balance Point: 9.2 cm (3 11/16 inches) from guard

Official Royal Armouries Licensed Product

A top-quality replica made by Windlass Steelcrafts®