Medieval War Sword Oakeshott Type XIIa with Scabbard

Medieval War Sword Oakeshott Type XIIa with Scabbard

Historical Context and Usage

Type XIIa swords, often called "Great Swords" or "War Swords", appeared during the 13th and 14th centuries. They were a response to improving armour. The longer hilt allowed for two-handed use, granting the knight greater power and leverage for strikes against enemies in mail and reinforced gambesons. The broad blade with a pronounced fuller was primarily designed for cutting, but the acute point already hinted at the need to thrust into the gaps of emerging plate defences.

Construction and Materials

This replica is crafted with a focus on functionality and durability. The blade features distal taper (thinning of the blade towards the point), ensuring the sword is not "tip-heavy" and feels very lively in the hand. The Point of Balance is just 9 cm (3.54 inches) from the cross-guard, which is an excellent parameter for a weapon of this size.

• Blade: Forged from spring steel, known for its toughness. The blade hardness ranges approx. 49–53 HRC, ensuring good edge retention and resistance to breakage.
• Grip: The wooden core of the handle is wrapped in genuine leather. The slight shaping and central riser ensure a firm and secure grip, even with sweaty palms or whilst wearing gauntlets.
• Fittings: The pommel and cross-guard are made of stainless steel with a satin polished finish. The pommel is peened to the tang, which is the historically accurate and mechanically strongest method of construction.
• Scabbard: Included is a PU leather scabbard that protects the blade during transport. It features a metal chape to protect the tip from wear.

Safety and Care

Although the sword is made of high-quality materials and has a flex strength of approx. 14 kg, please bear in mind important safety rules. The blade is sharp, and the point is acute. This sword is not intended for person-to-person contact sparring! It is suitable for practising forms (kata), cutting tests on appropriate materials, or as a high-end costume accessory.

To ensure your sword lasts for generations, wipe the blade with a dry cloth after every touch or use and apply a layer of preservative oil (e.g., gun oil or a universal maintenance oil). Avoid long-term storage in the scabbard, where the material could absorb moisture and promote corrosion.