I finally got home from work very late last night, and found a long, rectangular box waiting for me on the porch. My heart must have skipped a beat!

So, I opened it up and found, suspended within the box by a pair of styrofoam braces, my Albion Stamford!

A very brief overview:


Fit and finish--

Despite being a very simple model, Albion showed a lot of attention to detail. In the photos on Albion's website, the tip of the blade looks spatulate. In actuality, it does, in fact, arrive at a subtle, spade-shaped point. The fuller, while shallow, is still crisp and well-defined. The overall assembly is rock-solid, and tight as a drum, with no perceptible gaps between the grip and the guards. The risers at the top and bottom of the grip are perfectly-aligned and symmetrical. The Dark Brown dye applied to the leather is fairly consistent, with only a few rather subtle shifts in shade and tone throughout the grip-- just enough to give it a rustic, rugged, "period" appearance, for lack of a better way to put it.

The only perceptible flaws I see in the sword are a triplet of very tiny pits in the pommel, and one noticeable pit on one side of the cross. But, seeing as how I have NEVER seen a period sword that didn't possess at least one imperfection in the hilt, I think the sword has more character of a "real" sword because of them. So, in all truthfulness, I don't think I'd change a thing about it.


Handling--

Using the "handshake" style of grip, the sword stays locked in the hand, with the corner of the pommel nestling itself in the heel of my hand. When I first gripped the sword, I could tell right away that it was designed for quick slashing cuts and shearing blows. Blade presence is fairly substantial, lending an authority in heft that carries through in the swing, but does not leave the forearm fatigued-- this sword is still quite light and agile.


As far as performance or cutting are concerned, I can't really comment, as I haven't cut with it. I'm not even sure I plan to do so in the near future....

I bought the sword mainly for costume purposes-- it is a pattern that would have been valid from the peak of the Viking Age, right up to the First Crusades. I will likely have it fitted to a scabbard and belt in the future. Overall, I'm very pleased with it. Albion's reputation for their attention to detail has certainly carried through with my purchase. The service was quick and friendly.

All in all, I think it is safe to say that I will certainly consider Albion for another purchase. I am currently eyeing their Templar and Count models. I am also considering a plainer version of A&A's Sword of St. Maurice.

It must be that time of year; I just got my Vassal. Congratulations on the new toy. I wish you the joy of many dead milk jugs, tatami mats, or pool noodles, if you decide to go that route!

-Grey

If you get a chance, I would love to see some pics!
Thanks,
Dan

Awesome! Post some pics when you can. I just got to slay a roving gang of jack-o-lanterns last Friday with my Reeve. It amazed me how easily it cleaved them in twain with virtually no effort. I am sure your Stamford would cut the same...

Sounds like a nice weapon! I would second nice pictures of it as well!

Many happy practice cuts.

RPM

This is a "Nice One" Jeremiah, if there is one particular category of swords that Albion makes, it's the Viking / Anglo Saxon type. Although I love all their swords, I just don't have the capital to acquire all that I desire. For instance the Albion Vassal, which I have, the various single hand and hand and a half swords by Albion that I "don't" have :( For example the Knecht is a particular Albion that I Love :!:
I should be grateful though, because I do have one Albion Viking Sword, the Berserkr, but these double edge fullered Viking Swords of Albions' are just beautiful! I've had the opportunity to handle several of them and one feels nicer than the next. Of the new Viking Swords that have come into being, the Stamford is one of my favorites for sure and I just know your going to come to love your Stamford more so the longer you have it.

I am real happy for you Jeremiah and I wish you lot's of fun and joy with your new Stamford! :)

Bob