One-Handed Knightly Sword Adalbert, Class B

One-Handed Knightly Sword Adalbert - Oakeshott Type XIIa

Sword class B

Key Specifications of the "Adalbert" Knightly Sword

• Overall Length: 102 cm (approx. 40.2 in)
• Blade Length: 78 cm (approx. 30.7 in)
• Guard Length: 21.5 cm (approx. 8.5 in)
• Grip Length (actual grip area): 14 cm (approx. 5.5 in)
• Pommel Diameter: 5.3 cm (approx. 2.1 in)
• Fuller Length: 45 cm (approx. 17.7 in)
• Blade Width at Guard: 41.5 mm (approx. 1.63 in)
• Blade Width 10 cm from Tip: 22.2 mm (approx. 0.87 in)
• Point of Balance (blunt version, measured from the guard): 2.5 cm (approx. 1 in, towards the point)
• Weight: 1936 g (approx. 4.27 lbs)

Construction and Design of the Adalbert Sword: A Masterpiece by Pavel Leier

The "Adalbert" sword boasts a well-thought-out and durable construction, a result of Pavel Leier's expertise, making it ideal for contact fencing.

The Blade: Robust and Versatile

The straight, double-edged blade, 78 cm in length, is crafted from high-quality ČSN 14260 spring steel. It is oil-hardened for an optimal combination of hardness (45-48 HRC) and flexibility. The blade tapers evenly towards the point and features a 45 cm long fuller, which reduces its weight while maintaining strength.

Hilt and Guard: Protection and Grip

The steel guard, 21.5 cm long, has strong arms that curve slightly towards the blade (Oakeshott Style 6), providing good hand protection. The grip for single-handed use measures 14 cm. The core of the hilt is the massive tang of the blade, encased in wood and meticulously wrapped with a tight, twisted pair of wires. This wire wrapping ensures an exceptionally firm and secure grip, even with gloves.

The New Faceted Pommel: Elegance and Balance

The sword is completed with a massive steel pommel of a new design, 5.3 cm in diameter. Unlike the original version, this one features an elegant, multi-faceted (cut) pommel. Its shape not only excellently balances the longer blade but also gives the sword a distinctive and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

How You Can Use Your Adalbert Sword

Modern Use in HEMA and Re-enactment

This sword has been designed with the needs of modern users in mind:

• Blunt Version (Class B for Historical Fencing): With an edge thickness of 2-3 mm and a rounded tip, this version is ideal for contact historical European martial arts (HEMA), technique practice, stage combat, and re-enactment battles. Its robustness, weight of 1936 g, and point of balance just 2.5 cm from the guard (on the blunt version) make it suitable for fencers who prefer a more forceful style and for techniques requiring a durable and agile weapon.
• Sharp Version: Perfect as a collector's item, a striking addition to a historical costume (e.g., a knight), or for cutting practice (tameshigiri). However, maximum caution, experience, and a safe environment are essential for cutting tests.

Historical Use in the High Middle Ages

Oakeshott Type XIIa swords were typical knightly weapons of the High Middle Ages. Thanks to their length and tapering blade, they were versatile – effective for powerful cuts (even from horseback) and for thrusts aimed at gaps in armour. They were used by knights and men-at-arms across Europe from the 13th to the 15th century. The robust construction allowed for effective combat against various types of protection, from mail shirts to early forms of plate armour.

Historical Classification and Insights into Type XIIa Swords

Oakeshott Typology in Detail

In its overall design, the "Adalbert" sword corresponds to the knightly swords of the High Middle Ages (13th–15th centuries). According to the renowned Oakeshott typology, its components can be classified as follows:

• Blade: Type XIIa (long, broad, with a 45 cm fuller extending beyond half its length, tapering to a sharp point, suitable for both cut and thrust).
• Guard: Style 6 (steel crossguard with strong arms slightly curved towards the blade).
• Pommel: New, elegant faceted pommel, 5.3 cm in diameter (formally reminiscent of some variants of Oakeshott Types T or V, but best described as a specific faceted form).

This combination, precisely crafted by the hands of Pavel Leier, creates a historically plausible and functional profile of a medieval one-handed sword.

Interesting Fact: Type XIIa Swords in Battle

Type XIIa swords were very popular and widespread due to their versatility. Their ability to cut and thrust effectively made them efficient in various combat situations, from large field battles (e.g., during the Hundred Years' War) to smaller skirmishes and duels. Their robustness was key to overcoming the ever-improving armour of the time.

Variants of the Adalbert Sword

You can order the "Adalbert" sword in two basic versions:

• Sharp: Fully sharpened blade, suitable for collectors, costumes, and cutting tests.
• Blunt (SK-B): Edge thickness of 2-3 mm, rounded tip. Intended for safe contact historical fencing and re-enactment.

Caring for Your New Hand-Forged Sword

To ensure your "Adalbert" sword serves you for a long time and retains its beauty, follow these principles:

• The blade is made of ČSN 14260 carbon steel, which is not stainless. After each use (especially after contact with hands or moisture), clean it thoroughly with a cloth and dry it.
• Preserve the blade with a thin layer of oil (e.g., gun oil, WD-40, or even vegetable oil in a pinch). This will prevent rust.
• Store the sword in a dry environment.
• Regularly smooth out any nicks on the edge of the blunt blade, caused by fencing, with a file or sandpaper to prevent sharp burrs and cracks from forming.
• Check the tightness of the guard and pommel. With contact swords, they may loosen slightly over time, which is a normal consequence of use and requires professional maintenance (e.g., tightening or re-peening).

Safety First: Important Handling Instructions

Remember that a sword is a weapon, even if it is blunt. Always exercise maximum caution when handling it:

• All activities with the sword (fencing, training, handling) are undertaken at your own risk. Neither the manufacturer nor the seller is liable for any damage to property or personal injury.
• Keep the sword safely stored and out of the reach of children.
• Always use appropriate protective gear (mask, gloves, torso protection, etc.) during historical fencing.
• Never use the sword for activities for which it is not intended.
• When fencing, try to parry blows with the flat of the blade, not edge-on-edge – this will prevent excessive wear and damage to the blade. Use appropriate force and correct technique.
• Visually inspect the sword before each use – check the integrity of the blade and the tightness of the guard and pommel.

The "Adalbert" one-handed sword with the new faceted pommel from Pavel Leier's workshop is a reliable and durable tool that will provide you with confidence in any situation, thanks to its robust construction and excellent grip. Whether you are an experienced fencer looking for a sturdy sword for HEMA, or a collector desiring an authentically looking piece from a master blacksmith, "Adalbert" is an excellent choice.

Please read these Directions for the use of bladed weapons.