Ancient Greek Kopis Sword with Lion Head

Ancient Greek Kopis Sword of Cleitus the Black with Lion Head

Historical Origin and Battlefield Usage

The single-edged curved kopis was widely used in the ancient Mediterranean during the 5th and 4th centuries BC. Unlike the straight xiphos shortsword, the kopis was engineered primarily as a devastating chopping weapon. For this reason, the famed Athenian general Xenophon strongly recommended it for cavalrymen, as the forward-curved blade shifted the center of gravity to maximize chopping force from horseback.

While often confused with the Iberian falcata, the ancient Greek and Macedonian kopis differed in its blade geometry and deep roots in Hellenic warfare. One of the most famous historical moments occurred at the Battle of the Granicus in 334 BC, when Cleitus the Black used his kopis to sever the arm of Persian satrap Spithridates just as he was about to strike Alexander from behind. This replica is forged to honor that loyal commander.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Crafted in Toledo, Spain—a city world-renowned for centuries of bladesmithing—this replica features a 59.8 cm (23.5 in) blade made of 440 stainless steel, hardened and tempered to 47–51 HRC. The ergonomic hilt combines cast brass fittings with faux-ivory grip scales. The pommel is sculpted into a detailed lion's head, while the curved guard prevents the hand from slipping onto the edge.

Technical Specifications

Care Instructions and Safety Guidelines

Please pay close attention to the following safety rules and maintenance tips:

• Decorative Purpose: For safety reasons, this product is a decorative item unsuitable for practical use (such as HEMA fencing, reenactment combat, stage fighting, or cutting tests). The 440 stainless steel blade is not engineered for impact against other blades.
• Handling: Never strike hard objects (wood, metal, stone) with the sword, and do not use it for human-to-human combat.
• Maintenance: Periodically wipe the blade with a soft cloth and apply a light coat of gun oil. Brass fittings can be polished with standard metal polish. Scabbard and display stand are not included.

Recommended Accessories

For a complete 4th-century BC Greek or Macedonian warrior display, we recommend pairing this sword with a tabletop wooden display stand, a bronze muscle cuirass, and a Chalcidian-style Greek helmet.