Joachim Nilsson wrote: |
What's the current estimated length of the XVa? It looks great. I've always wanted a blunt with another profile than the common flat that most blunts have. |
The blade lenght is 86 cm or close to 34 inches.
Joachim Nilsson wrote: |
What's the current estimated length of the XVa? It looks great. I've always wanted a blunt with another profile than the common flat that most blunts have. |
Howard Waddell wrote: | ||
I'll let Peter and Eric respond to this -- we are going to keep the numbers of models in this Line small, but this may be something to consider. Best, Howy |
Peter Johnsson wrote: | ||
Hey Rob, I am not Howy, but here is my take at this: The Squire line is a line of swords for the beginner practitioner or collector who whants quality swords that are made with an eye for historical accuracy but made to allow for a limited budget. These swords will also appeal to those who appreciate ruggedness, and there are low (=close to nill) demands in maintenance. I like the idea that has been brought up that these swords are well suited for patination and home improvement projects. Style, proportions and feel are still very close to what you see in histrorical originals. To make it possible for this line of swords to be used as sparring weapons the bevels are left a bit blunter leaving a rounded/flat edge (still pretty well defined and not too thick). It should be noted that one should avoid static blocking of full force blows squarely with the edge (as anyone who study historical swordsmanship knows), but these blades can be used in sparring when used in a reasonable way. This type of edge has long been the norm on "replicas" not meant for cutting. It is a type of edge that leaves a bit more meat in the blade. Thicker edges will have some effect on handling, but we are aiming at keeping this to a mimimum. When sharpened with a secondary bevel a blade like this can be used in cutting with pretty good results, but one should not expect it to perform at the same level as a blade with a highly defined continuos edge. The swords of the Squire line have one advantage in that the overall blade shape has he same level of definition as the NextGen line, only not brought to the same finish (and left with a blunter bevel). A highly defined blade helps counter some of the inherent crudeness of a secondary bevel grind. To reach a lower price, compromises have to be made. That is a sorry fact of life. ...The trick is making the right compromises ;) :D Sturdy construction, rugged functionality and well expressed historical style within a tight budget has been the goal for the Squire Line. Hope this helps explain some of your questions! Best Peter |
Peter Johnsson wrote: | ||
The blade lenght is 86 cm or close to 34 inches. |
Joachim Nilsson wrote: | ||||
Which gives a total length of??? :p |
Taylor Ellis wrote: |
Hi Peter,
The swords look great. Are there any plans for expanding the line if these models take off? If so, any hints as to what? :) Personally, I think a thegn like sword would be pretty popular simply because of the number of Hastings-era reenactment groups, as would a sidesword. Cheers mate! Oh yeah, check your email. :p |
Peter Johnsson wrote: | ||||||
About 109 cm (roughly 43 inches) ...And as I know you want to know, the cross will be around 20 cm (about 8 inches) wide ;) |
Eric McHugh wrote: | ||||
The pommel will be a type "H" just in one piece. |
Patrick Kelly wrote: |
This is just a general comment that isn't meant for anyone in particular.
Since Albion announced the Squire line I've seen quite a bit of discussion here and on other forums. Quite a few people seem to have the desire to sharpen these things and use them for cutting and what not. While I certainly understand that desire I think people need to understand what they're getting. These swords are meant for reenactment purposes, and for use as a blunt in training. However, the general reaction seems to be "Great! Now I can get an Albion on the cheap!" I think that's a dangerous point of view that will do a disservice to the product. I'm sure that Albion can sharpen them if the customer wants. On the other hand, these swords won't have the same blade geometry as the Next Gen. and Museum Lines. Consequently they won't respond in the same fashion during a cut. Down the road I can see this leading to disappointment, and bad opinions being formed through the lack of understanding towards the product. If I were Albion I'd simply refuse to sharpen these swords, just so there'd be no misunderstanding as to their purpose. Just my opinion. |
Patrick Kelly wrote: |
This is just a general comment that isn't meant for anyone in particular.
Since Albion announced the Squire line I've seen quite a bit of discussion here and on other forums. Quite a few people seem to have the desire to sharpen these things and use them for cutting and what not. While I certainly understand that desire I think people need to understand what they're getting. These swords are meant for reenactment purposes, and for use as a blunt in training. However, the general reaction seems to be "Great! Now I can get an Albion on the cheap!" I think that's a dangerous point of view that will do a disservice to the product. I'm sure that Albion can sharpen them if the customer wants. On the other hand, these swords won't have the same blade geometry as the Next Gen. and Museum Lines. Consequently they won't respond in the same fashion during a cut. Down the road I can see this leading to disappointment, and bad opinions being formed through the lack of understanding towards the product. If I were Albion I'd simply refuse to sharpen these swords, just so there'd be no misunderstanding as to their purpose. Just my opinion. |
Gary Grzybek wrote: | ||
I agree, it might be best if this line be offered specifically as blunts to avoid any problems. On the other hand as long as the customer understands what he's getting it may not be an issue. If you look at Del Tin's, most customers understand that they're getting a sword not intended for cutting so the secondary edge bevel will not provide optimum performance. They can be decent cutters depending on the particular model but not like some other high end stuff. |
Patrick Kelly wrote: |
Hi Howy,
All very good points, and well said. I think it's a very smart move to offer these lower cost swords that still feature proper construction. Your point about starting beginners off right is a good one. I wish there had been swords like that available when I started collecting. It would have saved me a lot of money and frustration. I'm sure you feel the same way. As long as people realize what they're getting there shouldn't be much of a problem. I guess my concern lies in the fact that, personally, I'm really getting tired of seeing these discussions about Brand A outcutting Brand B, etc. etc. I wouln't have a problem with it if the discussions were based on logic. Unfortunately, most of it seems to be based purely on emotionalism and blind brand loyalty. You raised a good point in that it's all subjective anyway |