Gothic Arming Sword Royal Armouries – IX.2141

Gothic Arming Sword Royal Armouries – IX.2141

Historical Context and Usage

This type of sword, typologically classified as Oakeshott Type XVIII, was designed at a time when plate armour was beginning to appear massively on battlefields. The shape of the blade corresponds to this – broad at the guard for cutting power, but tapering to a sharp point capable of penetrating mail or finding gaps in plates. The original was found in a peat bog, which ensured its excellent preservation. Comparable swords have been found across Europe, testifying to the universality and popularity of this design among the warrior elite of the time.

How you can use this sword:

• Historical Re-enactment: An ideal accessory for the costume of a knight or man-at-arms from the 14th and early 15th centuries.
• Collecting: As an official Royal Armouries licensed product, the sword has significant collector value and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
• Study and Drills: Thanks to the high-quality material and construction, the sword can be used for practicing techniques (drills), albeit with safety in mind (see below).

Craftsmanship and Features

The blade is crafted from modern 1080 high carbon steel and is fully tempered. What will immediately impress you about this sword is its geometry. The blade features a flattened diamond cross-section and distinct distal taper (the blade gets thinner towards the tip). This gives the sword surprising lightness and manoeuvrability despite its size, without losing authority in the bind. The edge comes unsharpened from the factory, with an edge thickness of approx. 1 mm, which is standard for most quality replicas.

The hilt fits very comfortably in the hand. The crossguard curves gently towards the blade and swells at the terminals, a typical element for the period. The pommel features specific faceting that faithfully copies the museum original. The grip is wrapped in black leather.

Included is a luxurious scabbard. It has a wood core covered with leather, and its tip is protected by a brass chape with ornate cut-outs and an acorn finial. At the throat, the leather extends slightly to cover part of the ricasso.

Technical Specifications

Care and Maintenance

To keep this beauty looking like new for as long as possible, it requires regular care. 1080 steel is not stainless. After every touch with a bare hand or after use, the blade must be wiped dry and preserved with oil (e.g., WD-40, mineral oil, or specific gun oil). Treat leather parts with leather care products to prevent drying and cracking. Brass parts can be polished with metal polish. Do not store the sword in the scabbard long-term, as leather can trap moisture and cause corrosion on the blade.

Safety Warning

Although the sword is made of high-quality steel, it is primarily intended as a collector's replica or weapon for stage combat and technical drills. It is not intended for full-contact heavy combat (Buhurt, HMB), where damage to the blade could occur against shield edges or other heavy weapons. If you decide to sharpen the sword, bear in mind that it becomes a dangerous weapon unsuitable for contact fencing with a partner.

As complementary equipment, we recommend a high-quality sword frog to allow for proper suspension of the scabbard at the waist.