One-Handed Chivalric Sword Carret, Class B

One-Handed Knightly Sword "Carret" – Type XIIa / Style 5 / Type I1

Sword class B

Key Specifications of the "Carret" Knightly Sword

• Overall Length: 100.5 cm (approx. 39.6 in)
• Blade Length: 78 cm (approx. 30.7 in)
• Guard Length: 23 cm (approx. 9.1 in)
• Grip Length (actual grip area): 14.5 cm (approx. 5.7 in)
• Pommel Diameter: 6 cm (approx. 2.4 in)
• Fuller Length: 47 cm (approx. 18.5 in)
• Blade Width at Guard: 41.7 mm (approx. 1.64 in)
• Blade Width 10 cm (approx. 3.9 in) from Tip: 23.6 mm (approx. 0.93 in)
• Point of Balance (blunt version, measured from the guard): 4.5 cm (approx. 1.8 in)
• Weight (blunt version): 2021 g (approx. 4.46 lbs)

Appearance and Construction: Elegant Craftsmanship by Pavel Leier

The "Carret" sword features a straight, double-edged blade, 78 cm (approx. 30.7 in) long, made of ČSN 14260 spring steel, which is oil-hardened to a proven hardness of around 47 HRC – a typical quality feature of weapons by Pavel Leier. The blade tapers smoothly to the point and is equipped with a 47 cm (approx. 18.5 in) long central fuller. A characteristic feature is the wide (23 cm / approx. 9.1 in), straight steel guard, whose arms slightly flare towards the ends. The 14.5 cm (approx. 5.7 in) grip consists of a wooden core over the blade's tang, which is then tightly wrapped with high-quality cowhide leather. A spiral wire wrap not only decorates the grip but also improves handling. The sword is finished with a distinctive, multi-faceted octagonal steel pommel with a diameter of 6 cm (approx. 2.4 in), which effectively balances the blade. The experience and precision of Pavel Leier are evident in every detail of this sword.

Historical Classification: A Classic High Medieval Sword

With its overall appearance – blade shape, straight wide guard, and faceted pommel – the "Carret" sword corresponds to the one-handed knightly swords of the High Middle Ages (approx. 13th to 15th centuries). Within Oakeshott's typology, the blade can be classified as Type XII or XIIa, the straight guard as Style 5, and the faceted pommel as Type I1. It is a classic and historically plausible combination of elements, and its crafting at the hands of Pavel Leier guarantees authenticity.

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

You can acquire the "Carret" sword in two variants:

• Sharp Variant: Suitable for collection purposes, as part of a historical costume, or for practicing cutting techniques (requires utmost caution and appropriate targets).
• Blunt Variant (Class B): With an edge thickness of 2-3 mm and a rounded tip, this version is designed for contact historical fencing (HEMA), stage combat, or re-enactment. Thanks to its balance (point of balance approx. 4.5 cm / 1.8 in from the guard) and medium weight of 2021 g (approx. 4.46 lbs), it is well-suited for technique training with a one-handed sword.

Safety Guidelines and Care for Your Hand-Forged Sword

Do not forget responsible handling and regular maintenance.

• Any use of the sword is entirely at your own risk. The manufacturer is not liable for damages or injuries.
• Keep the sword out of reach of children.
• The blade is made of carbon steel (ČSN 14260), which is not stainless. After each use, especially after contact with hands, clean it thoroughly, dry it, and conserve it with oil.
• When fencing, parry blows with the flat of the blade, not edge-on-edge, to minimize the risk of blade damage.
• Before each use, inspect the condition of the sword, especially the tightness of the guard and pommel, and the integrity of the blade. Smooth out any nicks or sharp spots on the edge of the blunt blade resulting from use.
• During use, the guard may become loose. This is common with contact swords and requires professional maintenance.

The "Carret" one-handed sword from Pavel Leier's workshop is a reliable and aesthetically pleasing weapon that represents a classic type of European medieval sword. Its high-quality Czech craftsmanship by a renowned blacksmith and its balanced properties make it an excellent choice for a wide range of history and swordsmanship enthusiasts.

Please read these Directions for the use of bladed weapons.