Knightly Sharp One-Handed Sword Gottfried, Oakeshott Type XVIII

Knightly Sharp One-Handed Sword Gottfried, Oakeshott Type XVIII, Brown Leather

Detailed Look at the Sword's Construction and Use

The weapon is meticulously constructed according to surviving originals as a classic representative of the Oakeshott Type XVIII. The blade stands out with a diamond cross-section and a clearly defined central ridge. This geometry gives the sword the extraordinary stiffness required for devastating thrusting attacks. The blade tang passes through the entire wooden grip and is traditionally and massively peened over a steel block at the end of the faceted pommel. For maximum grip security, the handle features a central riser and is precisely wrapped in high-quality brown leather. The sword comes with a sturdy wooden scabbard, which is also covered in genuine leather. The scabbard is protected by a steel chape and equipped with an ingenious leather belt system for comfortable suspension from the waist. As a sharp, fully functional replica, the sword is primarily intended for cutting tests on appropriate soft targets, such as soaked tatami mats.

Technical Parameters of the Replica

Historical Context and Oakeshott Typology

Swords featuring a Type XVIII blade dominated European battlefields primarily throughout the 15th century. During this era, heavy plate armour reached its zenith, and broad blades designed solely for sweeping cuts began to lose their effectiveness. The Type XVIII was the perfect answer from the swordsmiths of the time. It combines a broad blade base, which retains enough power for cuts against lightly armoured targets, with a profile that tapers sharply to an extremely strong and sharp point. This point was designed to penetrate the vulnerable gaps in plate armour, often protected only by chainmail, with surgical precision.

A Fragment of Knightly History

Did you know that the faceted, octagonal pommel adorning the Gottfried sword served far more than just to balance the weapon? Experienced knights often used it in close combat, known as half-swording, as an improvised and highly devastating percussive tool. In the brutal melee of battle, where there was no room for wide blade swings, an unexpected and hard strike with the massive steel pommel directly to the opponent's helmet (the so-called murder stroke or Mordhau) could decisively end the entire duel.

Proper Sword Care

To ensure this functional replica serves you in perfect condition for many years, it requires regular care. After every training session, or at least once every few months if merely on display, the blade must be thoroughly cleaned of moisture, fingerprints, and remnants of cutting targets. The cleaned steel must then be conserved with a thin layer of high-quality gun oil. The natural leather on the grip and scabbard will benefit from an occasional gentle treatment with a specialised leather balsam, which prevents it from cracking. Never store the sword permanently sheathed in its leather scabbard, as leather naturally draws moisture from the air, which would lead to pitting corrosion on the blade.

Important Safety Warnings

WARNING: This weapon is equipped with a very sharp blade! Under no circumstances is it intended for historical contact fencing (HEMA), staged battles, or any other human-to-human combat. The impact of the edge against another steel blade would cause irreversible chipping of the edge and the ejection of dangerous steel fragments that can cause fatal injuries. Using the weapon for cutting tests is entirely at your own risk. Both the manufacturer and the seller disclaim any liability for injury, death, or property damage caused by the improper or negligent handling of this sharp weapon.

Recommended Accessories

A massive wooden stand is perfectly suited for the dignified and safe display of this unique sword in your study. To keep the steel in pristine condition, a comprehensive weapon cleaning and maintenance kit will serve you very well. Furthermore, to ensure a safer and firmer grip during cutting tests, we highly advise using robust leather gloves.