Atic-Oakeshott Type XIIa one-handed sword, Class B

Atic-Oakeshott Type XIIa one-handed sword

Sword class B

Appearance and construction:

At first glance, the carefully crafted blade is made of spring steel ČSN 14260, which has been hardened in oil to a hardness of about 47 Rockwell hardness. The blade is straight, double-edged, with a cross guard profile of 44x5 mm and tapers gently along its length. The photo also shows a central hollow groove that makes the blade lighter. The wide, straight cross guard (approx. 22 cm) with shoulders that curve slightly towards the blade provides good hand protection. The grip consists of a wood-clad steel core, firmly wrapped in high-quality cowhide and decorated with decorative twisted wire for a secure grip. The whole thing is rounded off by a striking steel pommel in the shape of a faceted pear, which effectively balances the weight of the blade. The blunt version weighs about 2.0 kg.

Historical classification:

In its overall appearance - the shape of the blade, the broad, slightly curved cross guard (reminiscent of the Oakeshott type 6) and the prominent pommel (similar to the Oakeshott type T3) - the sword resembles European one-handed swords (or rather ‘bastard’ or one-and-a-half-handed swords) of the High Middle Ages, from the 13th to 15th century. Typologically, it could be classified as an Oakeshott Type XIIa, the universal swords of their time, which could both cut and stab.

Variants and uses:

The sword can be ordered in two variants:

1. Sharp version: suitable for collecting, as part of a historical costume or for training cutting techniques (requires extreme caution and appropriate targeting).
2. Dull version (class B). It is ideal for HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts) training, re-enactment battles or theatrical performances. Its durability and attractive design make it one of the most popular models.

Safety and maintenance:

Remember that the sword is a weapon and must be handled responsibly and with respect.

• Use it at your own risk. The manufacturer is not responsible for any injuries or damages.
• Keep the sword out of the reach of children.
• The blade is made of carbon steel (CSN 14260), which is not stainless. Clean and preserve it with oil after each use to prevent rust.
• When practising the art of fencing, cover the blows with the flat side of the blade and not with the cutting edge against the cutting edge to minimise the risk of damaging (‘nicking’) or breaking the blade. Perform the blows in a technically correct manner and without unnecessary force.
• Before each use, check the condition of the sword, especially the durability of the cross guard and pommel, as well as the integrity of the blade. Grind off any nicks or sharp spots on the edge of the dull blade with a diamond file or sandpaper.
• The cross guard may loosen during use. This is common for contact swords and requires professional maintenance (re-riveting, re-soldering or tightening of the pommel).

This sword is a solid piece of craftsmanship that, with proper use and care, will serve you well over time, whether as a piece in your collection or as a reliable partner in training or on the battlefield.

Please read these Directions for the use of bladed weapons.