[David Etienne]

Hi all,

In August 2008, I ordered a sword to Vladimir Cervenka. Originally, I wanted one of his hand-and-a-half 16th c. German Sword. But last October I sent him a message asking him if I could change my order. He accepted and I ordered him a custom one-hander from the same period than the German one-and-a-half and with approximately the same style. So, with Nathan’s great help I found the sword I wanted to be reproduced : the Wallace collection A536.

As soon as I sent him the picture of this sword and some specifications (weight, dimensions), Mr Cervenka started to work on it. He answered to all of my e-mails and requests within 24 hours and was even kind enough to send me pictures of his work in progress.

Finally, I got my sword two weeks ago, when I returned from holidays.
I was very pleased, as this sword is worth every euro I paid for it. Of course there’s some slight imperfections and some compromises were made, like the pommel less elaborated than the original. In fact, I think we can apply to it the same comments than for the Schiavona in the reviews section, but like this one, this sword is very pleasing to see and to wield. The grip is a piece of jewelry, the guard is very well made and the pommel is massive and solid. It’s a sturdy sword, with a blade easy to control in the thrust and showing absolutely no secondary bevel. I have not tried to cut with it yet, though.
All in all I’m more than satisfied with this custom sword and with our perfect collaboration. I will undoubtedly order from Vladimir Cervenka again.

Cheers,

David

Specifications:

Weight: 1038 gr.
Total length: 1070 mm
Blade length: 930 mm
Blade width: 35 mm at the base
The POB lies just after the ricasso

[Justin H. Núñez]

That is one beautiful sword! I always like his work. What does it feel like in motion? What does the grip feel like? I know it is wire but is it slippery or does the texture of the wire give it some, well, grip?


Very, very nice piece. Are going to have a scabbard and suspension made for it?

[Tim Lison]

This sword looks great! Nice work. I really like the grip. How about a full length shot of the finished sword?

[David Etienne]

Hi ! Thank you for your comments.
The grip is very comfortable and while smooth, it's not slippy at all. This sword is light and very agile. I've not cut with it yet but I'm sure it's very capable.
Concerning the scabbard, Mr Cervenka proposed to make one but I decided to make one myself. When? That's the question ;)
I'll try to post a picture of the entire sword soon. I've one made by Mr Cervenka but it's a bit blurry. The picture showing the sword nearly completed is the best I have currently.

Cheers,

David

[Joel Chesser]

Wow!
I have to admit, I'm jealous to an absurd degree right now. Congratulations on a very handsome piece. :D

[Roger Hooper]

A beautiful sword - Cervenka becomes even more impressive. I must consider getting something from him, though I imagine his wating list is a long one. I'll keep an eye on the classifieds.

[Luka Borscak]

Last time I checked 1 year was maximum wait.

[Stephen A. Fisher]

Very nice. :cool: The A536 has always been one of my favorites.
http://www.myArmoury.com/albums/photo/5813.html

[Lucas S]

very very beautiful sword! :D ...have you checked it in the fight? is blade sharp or blunt?

could you tell me how much you have paid for this sword??

[David Etienne]

Hello Lucas,

I don't intend to use it in combat, as it's a sharp one. In fact, the blade is dull from the guard to the end of the fuller and then it's sharp, with no secondary bevel.

Concerning the price point, I suggest you to contact Vladimir Cervenka and ask him a price list or a price estimation for a custom sword. All I can say concerning my sword is that I have a lot for what I paid.

Cheers,

David