Late Medieval Longsword Type XXa – The Iron Guardian

Late Medieval Longsword Type XXa – The Iron Guardian

Anatomy of the Sword

The blade features the classic Type XXa profile: a strong taper terminating in an acute point, reinforced by a complex fuller system (two short, one long) that enhances stiffness for thrusting while maintaining dynamic balance for cutting. The hilt is a work of art in itself, showcasing a polished double-ring guard that offers superior hand protection—a feature indicative of the transition toward complex hilts. The grip is wrapped in genuine leather and reinforced with stainless steel wire, ensuring a secure hold even during vigorous use, and is capped by a distinctively twisted "scent-stopper" pommel.

Specifications

Historical Context

The Oakeshott Type XXa longsword rose to prominence in the 14th and 15th centuries as a countermeasure to the increasing prevalence of plate armour. The narrow, stiff point was engineered to seek out gaps in armour plates (such as the armpits or visor), while the blade retained enough mass for percussive strikes. The inclusion of side rings on the crossguard of this replica suggests a weapon from the late 15th or early 16th century, providing necessary protection for the fingers when utilizing advanced fingering techniques common in the fencing treatises of the era.

Maintenance Instructions

To preserve the beauty and functionality of your sword:

• The high-carbon spring steel is susceptible to rust. Clean and oil the blade with a mineral oil or gun oil after every handling.
• Store the sword in a dry environment. Do not store it in the scabbard for long periods, as leather can trap moisture against the steel.
• Treat the leather parts of the grip and scabbard with quality leather conditioner to prevent cracking.

Safety Warning

WARNING: Sharp Blade!

This sword is sold fully sharpened and is built for cutting performance. While suitable for test cutting on appropriate soft targets (tameshigiri), it is strictly prohibited for person-to-person sparring or stage combat. The sharp edge and rigid point can cause catastrophic injury. Use only with extreme caution and responsibility.

A period-appropriate belt or sword frog would make an excellent addition to complete your loadout.