A sample of styles for Medieval Swords
Posted by MRL on Aug 8th 2017
A replica of the famed Wallace Collection and a perfect example of a true bastard sword. A good bastard sword has dimensions nearly identical to a one handed sword, but the grip is extended and the pommel stretched so that a second hand can comfortably be used. Thus they are also known as hand-and-a-half swords. These swords came to prominence as a cavalry weapon. They allowed enough reach to be used from horseback but should the rider be unseated, they could also function well on foot. Now these medieval weapons maintain their popularity through there versatility.
Falchions were a family of single-hand Medieval and Renaissance swords that included the Messer, Storta, Braquemart, Badelair and Malchus, among others. So named for its single-edged falcated blade, from the Latin falcaÌtus and falx meaning sickle, it refers to a sword that widens or curves forward at the point. A true working-man weapon, the falchion served as a kind of temperate zone machete as well as fearsome tool of war. While sometimes lacking the cut to thrust versatility and warding capacity of a straight double-edged arming sword, it made up for it with a robust design that permitted viciously powerful blows. Commonly used by archers and lower soldiers as it was easier to produce being a single edged weapon.
The sword of Tancred is a cruciform sword, a straight double edged sword that combined with it's hilt resembles a cross. This made it a favorite among knights of all Holy Orders. While the flat hilt was inspired for it's symbolism, many find that it is a very combat effective design.