The Monarch exemplifies the classic 13th century Type X medieval sword. The type X was in common usage from the time of the Vikings throughout much of the middle ages, and is recognizable for its broad blade with full-length fuller. This version has a distinctive “Brazil nut” pommel, common to the mid-1200’s and beyond but most clearly represented on the type X to type XI transitory blades. The Monarch has the long, tapered blade typical of the cut-and-thrust swords that evolved to counter the increasing advances made in armor protection, and the curved guard is consistent with the numerous surviving 13th century Brazil nut swords found in museums and collections. The Monarch is a classic design that will be a unique presence in any collection.

SPECS

Hand forged from 5160 High Carbon Steel
Differential Hardened at a Rockwell of 60 at the Edge; 48-50 at the core.
Fittings: Mild Steel
Handle: Leather Wrapped Wood Core
Total length: 38.5″
Blade length: 32″
Blade width at base: 2 1/8″
Grip Length: 4.75" inches
Weight: 3.0 lbs 
POB: 5.5 inches

The post (#1305) The Monarch appeared first on Darksword Armory.

The 13th century marked a major turning point in the evolution of medieval swords and armor. Before this period, most European warriors relied on mail armor (maille), designed to resist the cutting power of the broad, uniform blades common in early medieval warfare. As the 1200s progressed, however, the rise of plate armor across Feudal Europe forced swordsmiths to rethink blade geometry.

By the mid‑13th century, knights and professional soldiers required weapons capable of penetrating increasingly protective armor. This led to the development of finely tapered blades with acute, reinforced points—swords engineered not only for cutting, but for powerful thrusts capable of slipping into the gaps of plate defenses. These transitional weapons represent one of the most important shifts in medieval sword design, bridging the gap between earlier cutting swords and the later arming swords optimized for armored combat.

Specifications:

Hand‑forged from 5160 High Carbon Steel
Differentially hardened: Rockwell 60 at the edge, 48–50 at the core
Fittings: Mild Steel
Handle: Leather‑wrapped wood core
Total Length: 34″
Blade Length: 27.5″
Blade Width at Base: 2 1/8″
Grip Length: 4.75″
Weight: 3.0 lbs
Point of Balance: 5.5″

The post The Earl Sword (#1314) appeared first on Darksword Armory.

The Two handed Norman Sword, Known for its crucifix form, is the quintessential medieval sword. Presented in the Bayeux Tapestry: an embroidery that depicts the Norman Conquest, the Norman Sword, classified as type XI with elements of type XIIa, is elegant in its simplicity.

Blade: 5160 High Carbon Steel.
Dual Hardened HRc 60 48-50 at the core
Total length: 45.5"
Blade length: 35.5"
Blade Width : 2"
Blade Thickness: 2.02mm
Weight: 3lbs 13oz
POB: 6.5"

The post Two Handed Norman Sword (#1336) appeared first on Darksword Armory.

The post The Norman Medieval Sword (#1307) appeared first on Darksword Armory.

The Crusader sword, like many of its historical counterparts, is regarded as the quintessential sword of the crusading knight. Richly ceremonial due to its symbolic shape, the Cruciform swords of the Crusading period were designed with proportions of perfection of form and harmony. Some sources speak of "divine proportions"; a complex geometry which flowed to represent the harmony of nature. The formula of these 'proportions' were used to create 'golden triangles' and 'golden rectangles' which were commonly applied to architectural designs. In 'The Noble art of the Sword', Tobia Capwell wrote that the use of the 'divine proportions' led to the belief and acceptance that swords could have artistic merit beyond the notion of 'practicality'. Classically styled, the Crusader sword was designed with the 'proportions' in mind. The simple yet elegant sword, topped with the circular wheel pommel, was carefully fitted to a blade offering exceptional reflex, balance and control. The sword is responsive, quick, resilient yet flexible. The sword has a sharply tapered cut and thrust blade. When in hand, the sensation, is that of an extension of ones arm. Although minimalist, the crusader sword is of stunning complexity. The Crusader sword is made from 5160 High Carbon steel. Peened pommel and mild steel fittings. The wood handle is wrapped in high quality distressed cognac brown leather and stitched at the side.

SPECS:

Blade: 5160 High Carbon Steel
Dual Tempered HRc 60 48-50 at the core
Guard and Pommel: Mild Steel
Total length: 34 3/4 inches
Blade Length: 27 3/4 inches
Blade Width at Guard: 2 1/16 inches
Thickness: 5.3mm - 1.3mm
Weight: 2lbs 13oz
POB: 4 inches

The post The Crusader Sword (#1303) appeared first on Darksword Armory.