Albion Armorers Dane Two-hander
Original: Scandinavian, circa 1425-75
Fifteenth century two-handed swords with unusually long grips have been found throughout Scandinavian countries, into Northern Germany, and are even associated with Italy. Of these, a particularly unique style exists that has what
Ewart Oakeshott classified as a
Type XVIIIe blade. This sword variant is generally considered Danish in origin and exhibits a unique grip treatment that has its bare or leather-covered wooden core wrapped at intervals with either strands of iron wire or bands of metal. Their guards are almost always curved downwards and they have scent-stopper pommels that are pear-shaped or faceted.
The Type XVIIIe blade form is unique unto itself. It is characterized as having a diamond cross-section, occasionally with a fuller running much of its length, and includes a relatively long and narrowed ricasso. The blades fitted to the Danish swords discussed here are not generally broad but are very thick, sturdy, and stiff with a robust point-section well-suited for strong thrusts.
The long grips and carefully-tuned distribution of mass exhibited by these swords creates unique dynamics that provide surprisingly agile mobility and incredible point control. These properties combine with the long ricasso to provide half-swording possibilities that make for a weapon that acts very much like a short type of polearm. However used, it is very clear that these swords were created for battlefield use against well-armoured opposition.
The sword shown here has a hexagonal oxblood-dyed leather grip equipped with five sections of tightly wound steel wire tacked into place. The pommel is of faceted octagonal scent-stopper form. The cross is characteristically downward sloping and widens at its ends. A deep fuller runs within the flat narrowed ricasso blending beautifully into the diamond-sectioned blade.
Overall length: 58"
Weight: 4.6 pounds
Width of guard: 8"
Blade: 42" long; 1.4" wide at base
Grip and pommel: 15.25" long
Point of Balance (PoB): 4" from guard
Center of Percussion (CoP): ~24.5" from guard
Maker:
Albion Armorers of Wisconsin.
This sword is based on several surviving specimens found in Scandinavia such as the swords shown here, circa 1450-60.
This item has been retired from the collection.
This sword is based on several surviving specimens found in Scandinavia such as the swords shown here, circa 1450-60.
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