SWORDS
A reference for writers of Sword fantasy and historical fiction.
(My custom Long Sword.
Weight 3.6 Lbs, 36” blade
Writing battle sequences is challenging. Especially in a historical contexts. The vast majority in this modern age have never handled actual swords. There are many false concepts infecting the general imagination.
For example, Arming Swords ( so called Broad swords, ) are heavy and unbalanced. Which is completely false.
Another myth is that European techniques were slow, clumsy hack and slash or pokey pokey. This is also completely false. In order to provide an introduction based on facts I present:
Side Sword 2 lbs 8 oz
34 5/8” blade, over all length 41 1/4”
Rapier 2 lbs 11 oz
42” over all 33 3/4” blade
A note concerning Rapiers.
Yes a Rapier can cut.
This provides an example of the actual capabilities.
Long Sword 3 lbs 3.6 oz
Overall 46 3/4” blade 36 1/4 “
Claymore 4 lbs 2 oz
Overall 55 3/8 blade 40 3/4”
Swiss Saber ( two handed saber)
3.37 lbs, Blade 40”
The Swiss Saber is a personal favorite.
TACHI 2 lbs 12oz
Over all 39 7/8” blade 28 3/4”
Katana 2 lbs 2 oz
Over all 41 7/8” blade 29 1/2”
Nodachi 4 lbs 10 oz
Overall 54” blade 40”
The Nodachi, TACHI, and Katana are two handed sabers.
That provides a brief comparison of European and Japanese sword types.
You will notice that an arming sword ( ie broad sword, later a side sword) weighs within a few ounces the same as a Rapier, a Long sword, or a Japanese Katana.
Based upon examined Skeletal battle field remains, the above shows the wounds observed. Compare the wounds with the illustrated techniques.
The following video links provide examples of actual historic European Sword play. You will notice it is nothing like anime or video games, not to mention the vast majority of films.
First, an example of the one handed iron age Celtic sword, a Spatha or Migration era sword. This is in a modern context though I believe it demonstrates the spirit preserved in myth and saga.
Here is an example of sword and shield.
The Longsword
Rapier and Messer
And for fun, the original tank:
Let me Know if you would like a more indepth break down.
Historical contexts, techniques, Armor etcetera.
Here is a YouTube playlist I created for reference.
I have to ask, in your current situation (whatever that may be) what would be your EDC sword of choice and why?
I've wielded a katana for Iaido, and it was light as a feather loved it. I've still got the katana, but am looking to re-enlist for lessons in the coming days if I can.
As to getting a long sword can I ask how you got your mitts on it Donn? Might have to look into getting myself one also.