True Swords Are Easy To Use

Weight and balance will also differentiate a real sword from a mere pretender. True swords are easy to use. They feel light in the hand and allow fluid movements when wielded. A sword that is heavy and awkward to wield will not serve its master well in combat.

Historical swords are finely balanced weapons. For instance, one of the rare antique swords in the Angel Sword collection is a 10th century Viking sword, probably one of the finest examples in existence. (Photo at bottom right.)

This double-edged sword has a blade length of 32 ¾ inches, and is 38 inches overall. The blade width is 1¾ inch. It weighs just 2 pounds 6 ounces, with a point of balance (POB) 4 ¼ inches from the guard.

An antique Napoleonic Hussar’s Saber in the Angel Sword collection has an overall length of 37 ¼ inches, weight of 2 lbs., and a balance point approximately 4 ½ inches from the guard.

The POB is an important measurement because it indicates how heavy the blade feels in the hand, and how much strain is placed on the wrist when using the sword. The closer the POB is to the guard, the lighter and more responsive the blade will feel.

For comparison, a typical Angel Sword rapier weighs 2 ½ - 3 pounds and has a POB around 2 ½ - 2 ¾ inches from the guard.

POB is an important consideration, but it is only one of many factors that defines a true sword. Different fighting styles and techniques require different sword characteristics. The most important thing to remember is that a true sword is a functional weapon and will handle like one.

Finally, fit and finish are valid considerations when buying a sword, but are not really factors in determining whether a sword is real or just a poor imitation. There are many other factors to take into account when shopping for a sword as well, but that is another story…

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Last updated Nov. 9, 2007 | Report Problems or Issues Using Our Site

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