Frantz Schmidt Executioner`s Sword

Frantz Schmidt Executioner`s Sword

Appearance and construction:

The most striking feature of the sword is its blade. It is about 78 cm long, unusually wide and, unlike martial swords, does not have a sharp point, but a straight or slightly rounded point. There are three holes drilled into the end of the blade, which were used to attach the weight. The blade can be decorated with decorative etching, which includes symbols of justice (e.g. a scale) and inscriptions (e.g. ‘LA JUSTICE’), which was typical for executioner's swords. The blade is made of spring steel CSN 14260, which has been hardened in oil to a hardness of approx. 47 HRC. Please note that this steel requires maintenance against corrosion. The grip is long enough for a firm, two-handed grip, which was necessary to execute the precise cut of the kata. The grip is wrapped in high-quality cowhide, which is wrapped backwards for a better grip. The cross guard is made of steel, straight, with simple round ends (approx. 21 cm long). The hilt is topped by a pear-shaped steel pommel, which helps to balance the broad, heavy blade.

Historical context:

Execution swords were a specialised tool used from the late Middle Ages to modern times. Their design was subordinate to a single purpose: to cut off the head of a condemned person cleanly and quickly. The broad, heavy blade without a point, often decorated with moral or legal motifs, distinguished it from swords intended for war or duels. The characteristics of this Richard sword match those of examples preserved in European museums.

Variants and uses:

You can order this sword in a sharp variant that matches its historical function (but for collectors or exhibition purposes only!), or in a blunt variant with rounded edges that is suitable for theatrical purposes, as part of an executioner's costume for historical events or as a very special decorative item. Due to the nature and weight of the sword, it is not primarily intended for fencing activities, although the blunt version can be used for rehearsed scenes.

Safety and care:

Remember that the executioner's sword, even in its blunt version, is a heavy and potentially dangerous item. It must be handled with extreme care.

• Safety: Keep the sword safely out of reach of children and unauthorised persons. Never act in a way that could endanger yourself or others around you. The sharp version is extremely dangerous and is for display only.
• Handling: Due to its weight and particular balance, handling the sword requires strength and confidence.
• Care: Check the corrosive steel blade regularly and preserve it with rust-proof oil.

It is a Czech product. Although it has been made with great attention to detail, please bear in mind that it is used entirely at your own risk. The two-year guarantee applies only to proven material defects. This sword is a fascinating piece of history and is intended for connoisseurs and collectors with a special interest.

Please read these Directions for the use of bladed weapons.