Posts: 230 Location: Bolton, UK
Wed 03 Mar, 2010 6:10 am
From looking at the stats it appears to be a bit overweight at 3.3lbs, its POB looks to be a far out at 6.5 inches and it has a pretty thick blade too. That would seem to make the sword rather blade heavy. The sword looks ok although the cross section at the point should be lenticular not diamond shaped. Although the pommel is a 2 piece construction, its screwed onto the tang, so effectively when it comes to historical accuracy they give with one hand and take away with the other! The grip is also a little long at 4.25 inches, Viking swords of this type generally had grips below 4 inches in length.
Having said that its received generally good reports from the reviews I've seen on forums like SBG. It seems to be solidly made. Although SBG often approachs the evaluation of a sword with regard to its durability and suitability as a backyard 'cutter' rather than as a historical reproduction. So I guess it's all down to what qualities you are looking for. Indestructable backyard cutter? Historically accurate recreation? Or a combination of the two?
Personally I would go with the Hanwei/Tinker Viking sword.
http://www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=...+%2D+Sharp
Its not only cheaper than the Kris Cutlery offering at the moment on KoA, its also received some very favourable reviews. It has a peened hilt construction (although the pommel is 1 piece), The blade has a correct lenticular cross section and its weight and balance would seem closer to original Viking swords. Overal I'd say it was a better bet, plus it comes with a decent scabbard. :)
Another option would be the Albion Squire Line Viking Sword.
http://www.albion-swords.com/swords/albion/sq...viking.htm
Its more expensive than the Hanwei/Tinker and the Kris Cutlery (although only around $150 more than the Kris Cutlery). The Squire Line are made blunt, but Albion provide an excellent sharpening service giving a nice blended edge.