Hand-and-a-Half Bastard Sword Octagon with Cutout Crossguard, Class B

Hand-and-a-Half Bastard Sword Octagon with Cutout Crossguard

Sword class B

Historical Context and Usage

Hand-and-a-half swords, frequently called bastard swords, enjoyed immense popularity during the 14th and 15th centuries. The extended grip allowed the swordsman to use both hands for a more powerful strike, while the weight and balance still permitted effective single-handed combat. The pommel and crossguard are made of steel, being either cast or forged. The hilt consists of the blade tang covered in wood and tightly wrapped with leather or wire.

Construction and Safety Warnings

The blade of the sword is made of hardened and tempered spring steel (standard ČSN 14260) in an oil bath to a hardness of approximately 47 HRC. If you order the version for historical or stage fencing, the blade edge will be 2-3 mm (0.08-0.12 inches) thick with a rounded tip. A sword with these characteristics can be used practically for contact fencing.

Safety rules: If you choose the sharp blade variant, we strongly warn that for safety reasons, the weapon is not intended for contact fencing or person-to-person duels! For all variants, we bear no responsibility for any injuries or property damage arising from the use of the sword offered here. We emphasize: Everything you do with the sword is done entirely at your own risk! Please always store the sword out of the reach of children. Also, be sure to read our Instructions for the use of cold weapons.

Rules of Proper Fencing and Weapon Maintenance

Despite great care in production and material selection, we cannot guarantee that the blade or crossguard will not break even with proper use, as no serious manufacturer can provide an absolute guarantee against breakage. Any sword can be destroyed by unreasonable handling. Deliver your strikes correctly and with a sporting spirit, without using excessive and unnecessary force. Try to parry your opponent's strikes with the flat side of the blade and avoid direct edge-to-edge hits.

Nicks on the edge of the blade caused during use are a symptom of natural wear and cannot be claimed as a defect. Before each use, inspect the blade and file down any sharp spots with a diamond file or sandpaper. Since the steel used is not rust-proof, it requires regular oiling. During use, it is often impossible to prevent the crossguard from loosening. In such cases, it is necessary to re-rivet or tighten the pommel, or repair a soldered joint. As a temporary solution for securing the crossguard, some fencers have found success by filling the gap between the guard and the grip with a tight wrapping of fishing line.

Recommended Accessories

For safe transport and to protect the steel from moisture, we recommend purchasing a custom-made leather scabbard and a practical belt frog for this sword.

Technical Parameters Table

All stated data should be understood as approximate.

Please read these Directions for the use of bladed weapons.