When I was home for Christmas, I took the time to redo the grip on my MRL/Windlass Falchion. I wanted to post it partly just so people could see the difference between Sean Flynt's and mine. I think it is always interesting to see how two projects using the same things end up different.

My grip was partially inspired by the grip on the effigy of Gunther von Schwarzburg, which can be seen in figure 77 in Oakeshott's Sword in the Age of Chivalry. That effigy shows a central riser (on a bastard sword, mind you) composed of two risers that cross, forming an "X." The double risers at top and bottom were my own fancy. I can't really call this an historically accurate grip (I haven't seen any done quite this way), but I think it still qualifies as historically plausible.

For those who haven't seen it, Sean's MRL Falcion grip:
[ Linked Image ]

My MRL Falchion grip:

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Looks nice, Grey. It is pretty interesting how much of a difference a "simple" change like that makes in the same piece. I've been party to a number of discussions over the years in the reenactment community around having some variety in the pieces used - to avoid that cookie-cutter look. This is an excellent way to personalize and individualize pieces so that even with a limited number of options available, there is enough variation.

I know you've done a few of these grip projects, and your experience and familiarity shows. Would you want to share how you made the crossed over risers? Looks cleanly executed!

Looks good, Grey. Any photos of the work in progress?

Looks great, as usual! This is a great (and easy) way to upgrade/personalize the pieces in one's collection. I'm having a go at a new mace grip in the next day or so.

I've been meaning to add a larger picture of this grip for some time. Since I recently upgraded my membership and now have more forum posting space, I really have no excuses (not that I had any before...). Hopefully, you can see things a little more clearly with this picture. Enjoy!

-Grey

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Very nicely done. Your work adds quite a bit to the aesthetics of that sword.

I own a sword by MRL, the "Classical Medieval Sword" and I've only heard bad things about MRL. (Unfortunatly I had already bought my sword, but now I'm in the market for an Albion.) The only complaint I have about my personal sword is that the peening comes a tad loose with use and it causes the crossguard to rattle.

So my question is how well does that sword hold up? I was considering a few years from now picking up a second albion, a falchon, as its a rather unique sword type.

M.

If you do a forum search for information on MRL/ Windlass swords, or read the reviews, you will find that people generally agree that they are decent, functional swords, but not up to par with manufacturers like Albion or Arms & Armor. For the price, that really can't be expected. The only MRL sword that I am dissapointed with is the Norman Sword (usually in the same picture as the Classic Medieval Sword, when both were still in production). It just does not balance well. I cannpt comment on your sword, but I would say that, if it does what you want, there is no reason to dicount it. That said, I have become a devotee of Albion, and will probably not buy many more MRL/Windlass swords.

-Grey

M.--see my review of this falchion here:

http://www.myArmoury.com/review_mrl_falc.html