Cold Steel MAA Arming Sword: Sharp 1090 Steel One-Hander

Cold Steel MAA Arming Sword: Sharp 1090 Steel One-Hander

This sword boasts the distinctive dark "gunmetal" finish typical of the Man at Arms series. The double-edged blade, approximately 71.1 cm (28 inches) long and 5 mm (3/16 inch) thick, is made from tough 1090 high carbon steel. The handle, about 17.1 cm (6 3/4 inches) long, features a fluted leather grip for a firm and secure hold. It has pronounced upturned parrying quillons (crossguard ends pointing towards the blade) that not only protect the hand but also give the sword an elegant look. A counter-balancing wheel pommel ensures it's beautifully balanced. All steel fittings, including the guard and pommel, are blued to match the overall design. The sword's overall length is approximately 88.3 cm (34 3/4 inches), and it weighs around 1140 g (2 lbs 8.1 oz). You'll receive the MAA Arming Sword complete with a hand-stitched black leather scabbard with a blued steel throat and chape.

Using Your New Sword

The MAA Arming Sword is an excellent choice for practicing Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), historical fencing, or as part of your collection. Its sharpness makes it suitable for cutting tests (tameshigiri) on appropriate materials. Its agility and one-handed design make it a versatile tool for training various techniques. It can also serve as an impressive accessory for costumes at historical events where carrying sharp weapons is permitted (always prioritize safety and adhere to the event's specific rules).

History and Origin of the Sword

The Medieval Warrior's Sidearm

This type of sword, often referred to as an "arming sword," was the favoured sidearm for many foot soldiers and journeyman warriors in the Middle Ages. On the battlefield, its smaller size and lighter weight made it more agile than many heavier swords. It was light enough to be easily wielded with one hand and stiff enough to find vulnerable gaps in a knight's plate armour or burst through his mail! It was a trusty companion for close-quarters combat.

The Man at Arms Collection: A Tribute to Rugged Fighters

The "Man at Arms" (MAA) Collection by Cold Steel® honours the medieval man-at-arms. He was a stalwart and dependable fighter who exhibited great martial prowess with a range of weapons. A veteran of many conflicts, he was often first into the fray. Although he was not a Knight, he fought and trained alongside them as a brother in arms. These battle-ready weapons may lack the gleaming blades and polished silver steelwork of Cold Steel®'s high-end weapons, but they are quite similar in quality and performance. The fully sharpened and blued blades have a distinctive gunmetal finish that complements the black handles. And when well-oiled, they are gleamingly beautiful in their own right. The Man at Arms collection features a selection of some of Cold Steel®'s finest blades, but at a markedly reduced price. If you've always wanted a Cold Steel® piece but couldn't afford one, this collection is made for you.

Inspired by History

Cold Steel®'s interpretation of this lightning-fast fighter's sword is inspired by historical one-handed swords that were a key part of a medieval soldier's arsenal. The design, with its upturned parrying quillons, fluted leather grip, and counter-balancing wheel pommel, reflects the typical features of these swift and effective combat weapons.

1090 High Carbon Steel: Strength and Resilience

1090 high carbon steel is an excellent choice for larger fixed blades. It takes and holds a good edge while remaining tough enough to withstand even Cold Steel®'s brutal stress tests. It is a good all-around performance high carbon steel that is very forgiving under shock, meaning it can absorb impact well.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Cold Steel Ltd.
• Cold Steel Product No.: 88ARM
• Material: 1090 high carbon steel with gunmetal finish (blued)
• Overall Length: approx. 88.3 cm (34 3/4 inches)
• Blade Length: approx. 71.1 cm (28 inches)
• Blade Thickness: approx. 5 mm (3/16 inch)
• Handle Length: approx. 17.1 cm (6 3/4 inches)
• Weight: approx. 1140 g (2 lbs 8.1 oz)
• Includes: Hand-stitched black leather scabbard with blued steel throat and chape

Caring for Your Sword

To keep your MAA Arming Sword in excellent condition for years to come, proper care is essential:

• Cleaning: After each use, especially after contact with hands or during cutting tests, wipe the blade thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth.
• Oiling: Regularly (at least once a month, or after every use) apply a thin coat of quality gun oil or a dedicated blade oil (like mineral oil or paraffin oil) to the blade to prevent rust. 1090 high carbon steel is prone to rusting if not protected.
• Storage: Store your sword in a dry environment. If storing it in its leather scabbard for extended periods, ensure both the sword and scabbard are completely dry to prevent moisture build-up, which can lead to corrosion. Leather can retain moisture, so for very long-term storage, consider storing the sword out of the scabbard or checking it regularly.
• Sharpening: The sword is delivered fully sharpened. If the edge dulls over time with use, use appropriate sharpening stones and techniques, or entrust sharpening to a professional to avoid damaging the blade's geometry.

Safe Handling of a Sharp Weapon

Remember, the MAA Arming Sword is a fully sharpened and potentially dangerous weapon. Always exercise the utmost caution when handling it and adhere to these principles:

• Always treat the sword as if it were loaded – in this case, extremely sharp and ready to cut or thrust.
• Maintain full control over the sword's movement at all times. Avoid sudden or uncontrolled actions.
• During training, cutting practice, or any demonstration, ensure you have ample free space around you and that no other people, animals, or fragile objects are within reach.
• Never point the sword at yourself or anyone else unless it's part of controlled training with adequate protection and under experienced supervision.
• When handing the sword to another person, always pass it hilt first, with the blade pointing downwards, and clearly warn them of its sharpness.
• Keep the sword out of the reach of children and individuals not instructed in its safe handling.
• If using the sword for HEMA or other martial activities, always use appropriate protective gear (minimum: fencing mask, gloves, neck protection, and a gambeson or other torso protection).