Collecting Replica Swords



Posted: Thursday, March 10, 2005

by lorien1973
Online Discount Mart Home & Garden Decor

You don't have to be a fan of the Middle Ages or a fantasy buff to appreciate the beauty and charm of a sword. And now thanks to modern technology you can purchase a replica sword of almost any era to display proudly in your home. But what should you look for when shopping for replica medieval swords?

The first choice you'll have to make as a collector is whether you want a functioning sword or one that is purely ceremonial. The difference may not be visible to the naked eye, but it's there in the production of the blade and the quality of the metal used. While you may never have to grab that broadsword off of the wall in your den and use it to fight off a horde of barbarians breaking in your front door you may find it more aesthetically pleasing to know that you can if need be. On the other hand your friends and family need never know that your longsword is made of cheap metal and liable to break if you dropped it on the floor as long as it looks good.

If you want a functional weapon be prepared to pay for it and be sure to go to a reliable manufacturer who has references available. A showroom or display area should allow you to inspect the product before purchasing the sword. Now let's talk about what to look for!

Aside from deciding whether your sword should have a blunt or sharp blade you will also need to determine the quality of the hilt and the pommel. Since these pieces are added to the sword after the blade has been initally created there is always potential for low workmanship to creep in along the production line.

The hilt is the first thing to inspect, being a totally separate piece from the blade itself. This should not shift back and forth when you grip the sword nor should it break after a few good hits against a practice piece of wood. The same holds true of the pommel, the guard and the handle. These should not be shifting back and forth as you work with the weapon, nor should they unscrew themselves after only a few minutes of work. Check the welds to make sure that they stay solid and are of good quality.

Hold the sword in your hand and check the balance to see if it's comfortable in your hand and feels like an extension of your arm, not a nuisance that you have to work at holding up. Ideally you want a high-carbon blade due to the strength inherent in the steel - it won't show nicks and scrapes like a stainless steel blade will and also adds a great degree of flexibility to your sword that any other metal wouldn't be able to handle without snapping in two.

Of course, you can also commission a custom blade for yourself from any reliable replica manufacturer. But be sure that you know the limitations of your design and be prepared to work with the manufacturer on alternative designs. That cool barbarian sword from your favorite movie may have looked great on the big screen but may be unfeasible as a functioning replica. You can still hang it on the wall of your den for your buddies to admire, but it may not be possible for you to take it out into the backyard and trim the hedges with it.

As with any hobby, displaying your collection is paramount. Depending on your taste you may want to put them behind glass in a special display cabinet or mount them on the wall in a medieval-type display. Also, think about firmly attaching the racks or cabinets to your walls and considering a lock if you have young children in the area to cover safety concerns.

Replica swords have always been a fascinating way to display your love of history and of swordcraft. With a little research you can purchase that sword of your dreams and have it hanging up over your mantel or fireplace for your friends and family to see and admire!

By Sheryl Nantus
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