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Fencing Mortuary Basket-Hilted Sword Naseby
Are you searching for a reliable and authentic weapon for historical reenactment or stage fencing? The Fencing Mortuary Basket-Hilted Sword Naseby for Reenactment Class C impresses with its outstanding agility, lightweight handling, and maximum hand protection. Forged from flexible 1065 high carbon steel, the blade features a blunt edge and a rounded safety tip to comply with reenactment safety regulations. The elaborate basket hilt protects your fingers during every engagement while completing your 17th-century outfit. We recommend choosing this sword as your perfect companion for battle reenactments and training! Further product information ...
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Fencing Mortuary Basket-Hilted Sword Naseby for Reenactment Class C
History and Origins of the Mortuary Sword
The mortuary sword is a iconic English basket-hilted broadsword from the first half of the 17th century (c. 1620–1660), famously wielded by cavalry regiments during the English Civil War (1642–1651). The term "mortuary" was coined in the 19th century due to popular lore suggesting that the sculpted human heads carved onto the basket hilts commemorated the execution of King Charles I in 1649. The blade features etched marks reading "XX 1414 XX", referencing historical Passau and Solingen bladesmith marks that were heavily imported into England during the 17th century.
The protective basket hilt provided the fencer with full hand coverage while maintaining excellent wrist mobility. Single-handed swords of this design represented a crucial bridge between heavy Renaissance broadswords and the lighter cavalry spadroons of the 18th century.
Craftsmanship and Handling Characteristics
The blade is forged from quality 1065 high carbon steel and tempered to approximately 50 HRC. This hardness balance delivers high flexibility, break resistance, and minimal burr formation during blade contact. Weighing just 907 g (2.0 lbs) with a point of balance 10.1 cm (4.0 in) from the guard, this sword feels remarkably nimble in hand. Included with the sword is a wooden scabbard wrapped in black leather and fitted with a steel locket and chape.
The Significance of Naseby
This sword is named Naseby in honor of the pivotal Battle of Naseby fought in June 1645. In this decisive engagement of the English Civil War, Oliver Cromwell's New Model Army defeated King Charles I's royalist forces. Heavy cavalry armed with basket-hilted mortuary swords played a defining role on the battlefield at Naseby.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Fencing Classification | Class C (Stage Fencing & Reenactment) |
| Blade Material | 1065 High Carbon Steel |
| Blade Hardness | approx. 50 HRC |
| Overall Length | 94 cm (37.0 in) |
| Blade Length | 77.5 cm (30.5 in) |
| Weight | 907 g (2.0 lbs / 32 oz) |
| Point of Balance (PoB) | 10.1 cm (4.0 in) from guard |
| Center of Percussion (COP) | 73.5 cm (28.9 in) |
| Blade Width at Guard | 26.7 mm (1.05 in) |
| Blade Width at Tip | 13.2 mm (0.52 in) |
| Blade Thickness at Guard | 5.6 mm (0.22 in) |
| Blade Thickness at Tip | 2.8 mm (0.11 in) |
| Edge Condition | Blunt edge with rounded safety tip |
| Scabbard | Leather-wrapped wood with steel fittings |
Care Instructions and Safety Guidelines
1065 high carbon steel is not stainless and requires regular maintenance. After every fencing practice, clean moisture and dirt from the blade before applying a thin coat of mineral oil (such as Ballistol). Treat the leather scabbard with leather conditioner to keep it flexible.
Safety Warning: This sword is rated as Class C (Stage Fencing) featuring a blunt edge and rounded tip. It is designed for reenactment, stage combat, and form practice. For safety reasons, it is strictly NOT intended for full-contact armored combat (buhurt) or hard HEMA sparring without proper personal protective equipment. Always wear a fencing mask and heavy padded leather gloves during drill practice.
Recommended Accessories
To complement your 17th-century reenactment attire and maintain your sword in prime condition, we recommend adding these period accessories:
- Leather Shoulder Baldric for carrying your mortuary sword scabbard at your side.
- Leather Fencing Gloves for enhanced grip and hand protection.
- Protective Steel Oil to prevent rust on the carbon steel blade and hilt.
- Cavalry Buff Coat to complete your 17th-century English Civil War impression.
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