14th-century "hand-and-a-half" sword

14th Century Hand-and-a-Half Fencing Sword Rulant Spring Steel

Historical Context and Oakeshott Typology Type XIIIa / XVIIIa

The historical template for this hand-and-a-half bastard sword is based on surviving museum finds dating from 1300 to 1400 (14th century), the High and Late Middle Ages. During this period, advancements in plate armor required weapons with longer blades and extended grips to generate extra leverage during two-handed strikes. According to the recognized Oakeshott typology, the blade corresponds to Type XIIIa or XVIIIa with its characteristic fuller for weight distribution, paired with a Type V/Z diamond pommel and a downturned Type 12 crossguard with hooked terminals.

In the 14th century, the bastard sword served as a versatile sidearm for knights and heavy infantry. It allowed agile one-handed control paired with a shield as well as powerful two-handed strikes in close-quarters combat. Rated as Class B according to fencing weapon classification, this sparring version features blunted 2–3 mm (approx. 0.07–0.11 in) edges and a rounded safety tip suitable for contact historical fencing.

Significance of the Name

This sword is named in honor of the legendary knight Rulant (Roland), the most famous paladin of Emperor Charlemagne. Roland's martial legacy was celebrated throughout the 14th century in chivalric epics as a symbol of absolute loyalty and martial honor.

Instructions for Use and Practical Fencing Safety

To ensure long service life and safety for yourself and your opponent, observe these guidelines:

• Pre-Combat Inspection: Inspect the blade before every bout. Immediately file down any sharp burrs or nicks using a diamond file or fine sandpaper.
• Fencing Technique: Execute strikes with proper martial technique rather than excessive brute force. Parry incoming strikes primarily with the flat of the blade rather than edge-to-edge to avoid deep burrs.
• Hilt Maintenance: Heavy impacts may eventually cause the crossguard to loosen. Re-peening the pommel will tighten the assembly. As a temporary field fix, wrapping heavy fishing line into the gap between the guard and grip effectively removes play.
• Product Intent & Warranty: This item is sporting equipment intended for historical fencing sparring. Edge burrs and nicks represent natural wear and tear. All practice is conducted at your own risk.

Technical Specifications

Care and Safety Instructions

The carbon spring steel blade is not rustproof and requires regular care:

• Corrosion Protection: Wipe the blade dry after every fencing session or handling with bare skin, then apply a coat of protective gun oil (e.g., Ballistol).
• Storage: Store the sword in a dry location out of reach of children. Do not store long-term inside a damp leather scabbard.
• Safety Gear: Always wear certified protective equipment during sparring – fencing mask, padded gambeson, heavy leather gauntlets, and joint protectors.
• Directions for the Use of Bladed Weapons from Outfit4Events

Recommended Accessories

We recommend pairing this Gothic sword with a matching 14th-century leather-covered wooden scabbard with belt suspension, leather fencing gauntlets, a padded gambeson, and a steel buckler shield. These accessories are historically compatible with 14th-century knightly equipment.