Light Stage Combat Sword Elias for HEMA, Class B

Light Combat Sword "Elias" for HEMA and Stage Combat

Sword class B

Key Specifications of the "Elias" One-Handed Sword

• Overall Length: 96.5 cm (approx. 38 in)
• Blade Length: 78.5 cm (approx. 30.9 in)
• Guard Length: 18 cm (approx. 7.1 in)
• Grip Length (actual grip area): 13 cm (approx. 5.1 in)
• Pommel Diameter: 5 cm (approx. 2.0 in)
• Fuller Length: 45 cm (approx. 17.7 in)
• Blade Width at Guard: 42.2 mm (approx. 1.66 in)
• Blade Width 10 cm (approx. 3.9 in) from Tip: 23.2 mm (approx. 0.91 in)
• Point of Balance (blunt version, measured from the guard): 10 cm (approx. 3.9 in)
• Weight (blunt version): 1444 g (approx. 3.18 lbs)

Appearance and Construction: Elegant Craftsmanship by Pavel Leier

The sword boasts a straight, double-edged blade, 78.5 cm in length, crafted from proven ČSN 14260 spring steel, a material Pavel Leier often chooses for his creations. The blade is oil-hardened to a hardness of approximately 47 HRC. It tapers smoothly to the point and features a 45 cm long central fuller, which optimizes its weight and rigidity. Hand protection is provided by a simple, straight steel guard (crossguard) 18 cm in length. The hilt, with a grip length of 13 cm, consists of a steel tang encased in wood, then tightly wrapped with high-quality cowhide leather and a twisted pair of wires, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip. The composition is completed by a classic steel disc-shaped (wheel) pommel, 5 cm in diameter, which not only balances the sword but also gives it an authentic historical appearance. The overall craftsmanship is a testament to Pavel Leier's smithing artistry.

Historical Classification: A High Medieval Knightly Sword (Type XI)

With its design – a slender blade with a gradual taper, a straight guard (Oakeshott Style 1 or 5), and a disc pommel (Oakeshott Type H, I, or J) – the "Elias" sword faithfully recalls the archetypal knightly sword of the High Middle Ages, roughly from the 12th to 14th centuries. According to Oakeshott's typology, it can most likely be classified as a Type XI, which was typical for its length, slenderness, and was often used by both cavalry and infantry. The quality of this replica from Pavel Leier's workshop ensures fidelity to historical examples.

Variants and Usage: From Collector's Item to HEMA Training Sword

You can acquire this sword in two versions:

• Sharp Variant: Excellently suited as a collector's piece, an imposing decoration, or as part of a historical costume. It can also be used for cutting practice (requires utmost caution and a safe environment).
• Blunt Variant (Class B): This version has an edge thickness of 2-3 mm and a rounded tip. It is specifically designed for contact stage combat, HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) training, or for use in re-enactment events. Thanks to its lower weight (1444 g) and good balance (point of balance approx. 10 cm from the guard), it is particularly suitable for technical fencing.

Safety Guidelines and Care for Your Hand-Forged Sword

Remember that even a blunt sword is a weapon and requires responsible handling.

• Handling the sword is entirely at your own risk. The manufacturer is not liable for any damage or injury.
• Store the sword out of the reach of children.
• The blade is made of carbon steel (ČSN 14260), which is not rust-resistant. After each use, especially after contact with sweat, dry it carefully and conserve it with a thin layer of oil.
• When fencing, parry blows with the flat of the blade, not by direct edge-on-edge contact. This minimizes the risk of nicks and blade damage. Fence with correct technique and without excessive force.
• Regularly inspect the condition of the sword – the tightness of the guard and pommel, and the integrity of the blade. If you use the blunt version for fencing, continuously smooth out any nicks or sharp spots on the edge with a file or sandpaper.
• With intensive use, the guard or pommel may become loose. This is a normal occurrence that requires professional maintenance (tightening, re-peening, re-soldering).

The "Elias" sword from Pavel Leier's workshop is a reliable and aesthetically pleasing piece of Czech manufacturing that will bring you joy and serve you well, whether you are a collector, a fencer, or a history enthusiast seeking quality from an experienced blacksmith.

Please read these Directions for the use of bladed weapons.