The “Marshal Boucicaut” Hand-and-a-Half Sword – Type XVa Thrusting Longsword

The “Marshal Boucicaut” Hand-and-a-Half Sword – Type XVa Thrusting Longsword

Construction and Practical Use

This "Bastard Sword" is designed for combat where the line between cut and thrust is blurred. The Type XVa blade is exceptionally stiff due to its profile, allowing you to deliver lightning-fast and precise thrusts into the smallest gaps of an opponent's protection. With a 23 cm (9.1") hilt, you have plenty of room for both hands, giving you immense leverage and control during techniques in "the bind." This sword is ideal for practicing historical techniques according to masters like Talhoffer, Ringeck, or Fiore. The 11 cm (4.3") point of balance ensures the sword is not "tip-heavy," yet it retains enough kinetic energy for effective slicing cuts.

Technical Specifications

Historical Context: The Age of Chivalry and Marshal Boucicaut

This sword is made in honour of Jean II Le Maingre (Boucicaut), who was the epitome of 14th and 15th-century chivalric virtues. Boucicaut was renowned for his incredible physical prowess—it was said he could do a somersault in full plate armour or climb a ladder using only his arms. The Type XVa became popular during his era. Classic broad blades designed for cutting through chainmail lost their effectiveness against full plate. A sword was needed that would not flex during a powerful thrust and could penetrate weak spots like the armpits or the helmet's visor.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure your sword remains a highlight of your collection for years, follow these principles:

• Oil regularly: The spring steel blade is prone to oxidation. Wipe it with a dry cloth after every use and apply a thin layer of gun oil (e.g., Ballistol).
• Leather care: Both the scabbard and hilt are made of genuine leather. Occasionally treat them with beeswax or leather balm to prevent the material from cracking.
• Storage: Store the sword in a dry environment. Long-term storage inside the leather scabbard can trigger corrosion if the blade is not properly oiled.

Safety Warning

This sword is a replica with a sharp blade.

• Not for contact sparring: This weapon must not be used for man-to-man combat or contact fencing practice. There is a risk of fatal injury.
• Cutting tests: The sword is suitable for cutting trials (tameshigiri) on soft targets (mats, plastic bottles). Never cut into wood, stone, or metal.
• Handling: Always remember you are holding a real weapon. Handle it with the utmost care and keep it out of reach of children.

Recommended Accessories

We recommend purchasing a historical leather belt with a double frog, allowing the sword to be carried at the ideal angle for a quick draw.

About the Swordier Brand

The Swordier brand is synonymous with the fusion of history and modern quality. The swords are manufactured in the internationally recognised city of swordsmiths, Longquan, in Zhejiang province. This location boasts a tradition of metalworking dating back over 2,600 years. Each piece is hand-forged by enthusiasts who "live for steel." For Swordier, a sword is not just a product, but a symbol of honour and artisanal perfection.