German Knightly Bastard Sword Oakeshott XVIII Heritage Edition
Are you looking for a weapon that balances German engineering with the lethal elegance of the late Middle Ages? This bastard sword from the exclusive Heritage Series by Windlass Steelcrafts is exactly what your kit deserves. Reintroduced with significant upgrades, the blade features an improved distal taper, making the sword incredibly lively and quick in your hands. The grip is wrapped in rich brown leather using a historically authentic wet-wrap process, providing a textured surface for a superior hold. Whether you are a dedicated re-enactor or a collector, this sword brings the spirit of a 14th-century knight to life. Further product information ...
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German Knightly Bastard Sword Oakeshott XVIII Heritage Edition
Construction and Practical Details
Classified as an Oakeshott Type XVIII, this sword is a quintessential cut-and-thrust weapon. The blade is forged from 1075 high carbon steel and features a slight hollow ground to reduce weight while maintaining exceptional stiffness. A standout feature is the classic steel wheel pommel, etched with a symmetrical, abstract floral symbol. The simple straight guard follows the stark German designs of circa 1350. The sword comes with a matching ornate scabbard, crafted with a wooden core and leather exterior, featuring adjustable attachment straps and a matching belt for easy carriage.
Technical Specifications
| Blade Typology | Oakeshott Type XVIII |
| Blade Material | 1075 High Carbon Steel |
| Overall Length | 41-15/16" (106.5 cm) |
| Blade Length | 34-7/16" (87.5 cm) |
| Blade Width | 1-7/8" (4.8 cm) |
| Blade Thickness | 5/32" (4 mm) |
| Distal Taper | 7/64" (2.8 mm) |
| Point of Balance (POB) | 3/16" (0.5 cm) from guard |
| Sword Weight (without scabbard) | 2 lb 9 oz (1170 g) |
| Total Weight with Scabbard | 4 lb 2 oz (1870 g) |
Historical Context: The German Influence
German-manufactured weapons were prized across Europe during the medieval period for their durability and sophisticated designs. The Oakeshott Type XVIII emerged in the mid-14th century as a response to the rising dominance of plate armour. Its stiff, acutely tapered blade was designed for thrusting into gaps between steel plates, while the wide base still allowed for powerful, decisive cuts. This hand-and-a-half (bastard) version offered versatility, allowing a knight to use it with one hand on horseback or with two for increased leverage on foot. The floral symbol on the pommel likely represented chivalric virtues or family heraldry, making it as much a status symbol as a tool of war.
Maintenance and Safety
Because the blade is made of high carbon steel, it requires regular maintenance. After each use, wipe the blade dry and apply a thin coat of mineral oil to prevent rust. Treat the leather grip and scabbard with high-quality leather conditioner. This product features a sharp blade and is not intended for contact sparring or person-on-person combat for safety reasons. It is designed for solo practice, cutting tests on soft targets, or for display. Never strike the blade against hard objects such as stone or steel poles, as this can cause permanent damage to the edge or the blade's structure.
We recommend pairing this sword with a padded gambeson and leather gloves from our collection to ensure both comfort and historical accuracy during handling.
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