The Peacemaker is, in my opinion, one of John’s more historical designs. As I already own a Warder variant (that I am very pleased with) I was interested in acquiring something from him in a more traditional vein while still retaining John’s individual style. The statistics of the sword are:
Overall Length: 49.75”
Blade Length: 37”
Width of Cross: 10.75”
Blade width at ricasso: 1.13”
Blade width at flare: 2”
Blade width 1” from tip: .75”
Grip Length: 9” (12.25” including pommel)
Weight: 3lbs. 9oz.
POB: 5.85” from the cross
COP: 24” from the cross
Initial Impressions
The sword was packed in John’s usual method…a well made wooden crate. I must commend him on his packing! Short of being intentionally run over by a forklift or something similar I find it hard to imagine anything damaging a sword shipped from him to a customer. My initial impression was one of size…this is certainly the largest sword I currently own. I asked John for a blade that would be suitable for use with German longsword techniques and that would also be very strong in the cut and I feel that he has delivered admirably. As I am no expert by any means with the Oakeshott typology, I would say that the blade would be a modified type XIIa (the modification being the flared ricasso). The blade is fullered for 32 “ of its length and ends in a point that is suitable to the thrust. The sword is dismountable with a forged tang ending in 5/16” threads.
Fit and Finish
I would describe the blade finish as a highly polished satin. The sword’s edge is very sharp and is of convex (or “apple seed”) type. There are no discernable secondary bevels.
The fullers are straight and clean. The hilt is of two sections of amboyna burl that has been dyed blue at my request. The patterns of the wood combine with the dye create a very attractive look, although I realized it does not suit all tastes. The file worked steel ferrules at cross, mid grip and at the pommel are well done and there are no gaps or rattles of any kind. The cross and pommel are of steel (not castings) and have been darkened. The cross also has decorative motifs worked near the grip on each side. The darkened fittings, blued grip, and black leather scabbard (also made by John and possessing a “vine” carving at the tip) combine to give the sword an ominous look when sheathed. I would describe the overall fit and finish as excellent.
Handling Characteristics
The sword is well balanced and, even though there is certainly a sense of blade presence, has a lively “feel” in the hand. Although obviously designed for two-hand use, it is easy to wield in one hand as well. The sword tracks well and changes in direction are relatively easy. The only cutting media I have available at present are the ubiquitous “pool noodles” but the sword flashed through them with no effort at all. Having cut heavier targets with my other OdinBlades sword I have no doubt the Peacemaker will do boon service on the heaviest of goza or leather armor. Thrusts into 3” cardboard wrapped in an old gambeson (all I had at the time..LOL) penetrated fully with little effort.
Overall, I am very pleased with my new sword and look forward to many years of service from it. I highly recommend this model to anyone looking for a long/war sword with responsive handling characteristics and authortiy in the cut.
My apologies for the poor pictures!
James
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