One-and-a-Half-Handed Sword "Knight Wilwolt von Schaumberg" – Late Gothic Type XVIIIb

One-and-a-Half-Handed Sword "Knight Wilwolt von Schaumberg" – Late Gothic Type XVIIIb

Construction and Practical Use

The "Knight Wilwolt von Schaumberg" sword is the epitome of perfect agility. Thanks to the elongated grip with an anatomical division, you gain immense leverage and absolute control over the blade tip when using a two-handed grip. This is crucial for the precise techniques of winding and binding described in the combat manuals of the period. The wide, gently curved crossguard provides reliable hand protection and allows for effective parries. The diamond-section blade, featuring a deep fuller in its first half, ensures high torsional rigidity. We recommend this sword to collectors, living history enthusiasts, and advanced martial artists for cutting practice. However, due to the sharp blade, it is not intended for contact HEMA fencing or partner drilling.

Historical Context and Typology

The historical archetype of this sword dates back to the second half of the 15th century, when the evolution of full plate armor reached its peak. The Oakeshott Type XVIIIb responded to the need for a weapon that could find weak spots in an opponent's plate armor using a stiff, sharply tapering point, while still retaining excellent cutting capabilities against lighter armored targets. The distinctive octagonal scent-stopper pommel serves as a perfect counterweight to the long blade and emphasizes the aesthetic purity of the Late Gothic style.

Technical Parameters

Historical Legacy

This sword was forged in honor of Knight Wilwolt von Schaumberg, a famous German commander and mercenary captain from the late 15th century. Wilwolt was renowned for his fearlessness, tactical genius, and adherence to the chivalric code during an era when the medieval world was transitioning into the Renaissance. This sword symbolizes his uncompromising military might and the elegance of the nobility.

Care and Maintenance

To ensure this sword brings you joy for generations, it requires regular care of its natural materials and carbon steel:

• Every time the sword is drawn from the scabbard or comes into contact with human skin, wipe the blade with a dry cloth and apply a thin film of mineral oil (e.g., Ballistol).
• Treat the leather on the grip and scabbard regularly with a beeswax-based balm to prevent cracking and maintain its flexibility.
• Never store the sword in the scabbard if it is damp or if too much oil has been applied to the blade.
• Avoid striking hard objects such as stones, concrete, or metal profiles. You would risk irreversible nicks on the edge or structural destruction of the blade.

Safety Warning

This sword features a very sharp blade and a sharp tip. For safety reasons, it is not intended for stage combat, historical reenactment battles, or any form of sparring. It is designed exclusively for decorative purposes, the study of historical techniques through solo forms (katas), or cutting practice (tameshigiri) on soft targets under professional supervision. Any practical use is undertaken entirely at your own risk.

Recommended Accessories

To complement this masterpiece, we recommend purchasing a period-accurate 15th-century leather belt with a double suspension system, which ensures the correct carrying angle of the scabbard on the hip. For steel maintenance, you can find specialized cleaning kits and oils in our store.

About the Swordier Brand

The Swordier brand represents the absolute pinnacle of hand-forged replicas of historical weapons. Each piece is individually forged in the legendary sword-making city of Longquan (Zhejiang Province), where the tradition of steel processing and bladesmithing has throbbed for more than 2600 years. The smiths at Swordier are true enthusiasts who literally "live the steel". By combining traditional metallurgical processes with uncompromising quality control, they create swords that are globally acclaimed for their perfect geometry, balance, and craftsmanship. Owning a Swordier sword means owning a piece of living tradition.