Impressive Bastard Sword with Cross Guards, Class B

Impressive Bastard Sword with Cross Guards (type XVIIIb/XXa)

Sword class B

Key Specifications of This Hand-and-a-Half Sword

• Overall Length: 119.5 cm (approx. 47 in)
• Blade Length: 90.5 cm (approx. 35.6 in)
• Guard Length: 22 cm (approx. 8.7 in)
• Grip Length (actual grip area): 21 cm (approx. 8.3 in)
• Pommel Diameter: 6 cm (approx. 2.4 in)
• Fuller Length: 60 cm (approx. 23.6 in)
• Blade Width at Guard: 41.8 mm (approx. 1.65 in)
• Blade Width 10 cm from Tip: 22.7 mm (approx. 0.89 in)
• Point of Balance (for blunt version, measured from guard): approx. 6 cm (approx. 2.4 in)
• Weight: 2313 g (approx. 5.1 lbs)

Design and Craftsmanship of This Masterfully Forged Sword

The dominant feature is the sword's long, straight, double-edged blade, crafted from proven ČSN 14260 spring steel (comparable to 54SiCr6) and oil-hardened to approx. 47 HRC for maximum resilience and flexibility. The blade tapers evenly towards the point and features a pronounced 60 cm fuller, which reduces weight and optimizes balance. However, the most striking element is the complex steel guard, 22 cm wide. In addition to the main quillons, which are slightly inclined downwards, it boasts distinct side rings (finger rings) offering enhanced protection for the fingers and foreshadowing the development towards the more complex hilts of Renaissance swords. The long hilt, designed for two-handed use and typical for a hand-and-a-half sword, consists of a robust steel tang covered with wood and then tightly wrapped with high-quality dark leather and a spiral wire wrap for optimal grip. A massive disc pommel made of steel, 6 cm in diameter, ensures the excellent balance of this hand-crafted longsword. Every detail of this masterpiece, from the precisely forged blade to the meticulous finishing of the hilt, attests to the many years of experience and skill of master blacksmith Pavel Leier, whose craftsmanship guarantees the highest quality and authenticity.

Historical Classification: A Late Medieval & Early Renaissance Longsword

With its overall character – the long blade, extended grip, and particularly the complex guard with side rings – this sword aligns with the edged weapons of the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance (approx. 15th to early 16th century). The blade can be classified according to Oakeshott types XVIIIb or XXa, which were typical for longswords of this era. The complex guard with rings surpasses the basic Oakeshott typology for guards and represents more advanced forms of hand protection. The pommel corresponds to Oakeshott types J or K.

Versions and Optimal Use: From Collector's Piece to HEMA Sword

You can order this robust, hand-forged sword in two versions:

• Sharp Version: An impressive collector's item for enthusiasts of historical weapons, a dominant part of your armour, or a tool for advanced cutting practice (requires great caution, experience, and suitable targets).
• Blunt Version (Class B for Re-enactment/Stage Combat): With an edge thickness of 2-3 mm and a rounded tip, this version is specifically designed for contact-heavy historical re-enactment (HEMA), demanding living history displays, and as a stage combat sword where a visually imposing yet durable weapon is required. Due to its weight of 2313 g, it demands good physical condition and proficient technique. The point of balance for the blunt version is located approximately 6 cm from the guard for good handling.

Safety Guidelines and Care for Your New Longsword

Given the size and weight of the sword, it is particularly important to observe safety measures and proper maintenance.

• Any use of the sword is entirely at your own risk. The manufacturer assumes no liability for damage or injury.
• Store the sword safely and out of the reach of children.
• The blade, made of ČSN 14260 carbon steel, is not stainless. Clean it thoroughly after each use, dry it, and conserve it with a suitable oil (e.g., gun oil or a specialized blade oil).
• When sparring, parry blows with the flat of the blade, not edge on edge. Due to the sword's weight, always execute strikes in a controlled manner.
• Before each use, carefully inspect the condition of the sword – the tightness of all components and the integrity of the blade. Any nicks on the edge of the blunt blade should be smoothed out.
• With such large and heavy swords, intensive use may lead to a loosening of the hilt components – this requires regular checks and maintenance.

This Bastard Sword with guard rings, a masterpiece by blacksmith Pavel Leier, is a truly powerful weapon that commands respect through its appearance and impressive specifications. It represents honest Czech blacksmithing tradition, backed by decades of experience, and is the ideal choice for experienced sword fighters, re-enactors, and collectors seeking a durable, authentic, and historically interesting longsword for specific periods and fighting styles of the late Middle Ages and early Renaissance.

Please read our: Directions for the use of bladed weapons.