The Warding Sword

∴ A Scholar’s Defense∴

You place the sword before the altar of Walpurga, wincing at the clatter of steel on stone. The Saint’s painted eyes look on serenely, with no hint of her namesake’s challenging smile.

For months you pored over the texts by half-light, characters becoming companions as you sliced the still air of your cell. You found skill in the Lady’s lessons, yes, but Truth as well. Perception. Judgment. Balance. Truths you will need to carry close on a journey such as this.

Smiling you retrieve your sword, fingers finding their familiar place between curved quillons and twisted pommel. You make the sign of the cross and then, on impulse, bring the broad blade to your shoulder, point up, in an unmistakable Walpurgis Ward.

As you turn to leave, you think you see the Saint’s eyes sparkle.

∴ Specs ∴

Conceived specifically for sword and buckler fencing in the style of Royal Armouries manuscript I.33., this Oakeshott Type XIV arming sword is based on an amalgam of period examples such as Moonbrand.

Our bespoke type XIV arming swords are available starting from £750 plus postage.

  • Total length 97cm
  • Blade length 80cm
  • Blade width at base 5.5cm
  • Distal taper 6mm-2mm
  • Grip length 10cm
  • Pommel 5.5cm
  • Quillon span 20cm
  • Point of Balance 9.5cm
  • Weight 1320g
  • HEMA-safe edges, flex and swollen tip.

∴ Notes ∴

Throughout my work on this sword I made great use of Roland Warzecha’s research, especially in terms of pommel orientation. This is twisted counter-clockwise to the same degree found on numerous original swords from this period. Both I and the swordsman who commissioned the sword are curious to see how this small adjustment will affect its use.

In addition, I added an engraving on the sword’s point of balance to echo similar embellishments found historically. Once again I found my inspiration for this amongst Roland’s recent research, and I’m grateful to share in his theories and discoveries.

The hilt is hardened carbon steel, the pommel of mild steel, and the hardwood grip is wrapped in string and oxblood leather. Construction is epoxied, keyed and peined together for maximum durability.

∴ Variants ∴

This custom creation is an homage to Oakeshott’s Moonbrand, featuring four fullers and slightly downturned quillons. A dark green leather grip offsets the classic look.

The rusty red-coloured grip on this custom Warding Sword was shortened to 8cm, to fit our client’s palm perfectly. The resulting effect, combined with a 10 degree offset in the pommel, offers superlative control and comfort.

We worked closely with our client to design a variant including the slender downturned quillons and large octagonal pommel of the Copenhagen Nationalmuseet Type XIV, as well as four fullers á la Moonbrand.

This variation is boldly medieval with a broad base to the blade, a mustard yellow grip, and a Tudor rose engraved at the point of balance.

IMG_7349

This oxblood-gripped beauty pairs flat, tapering quillons with a broad central fuller. The construction is finished with a brass peening block.

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The dark brown grip of this variant gives a more mercenary look, while the Moonbrand-esque downturned quillons offer a variety of options in the bind.

Looking for a slice of history? Get in touch to discuss your ideas.

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