Hey everyone, I'm new here and so far my "collection" consists of the MRL 14th century short sword copied from the one in the Met in New York ... I'm 18, so my income isn't too free these days, but I would like to acquire more arms and armor and perhaps get into SCA fighting sometime in the future. Anyhow, in my frequent internet perusals, the MRL Arbedo sword caught my eye, and I noticed it on the comparison chart on this site ... does anyone here have any experience with this particular sword? My only experience with a MRL sword has been fairly satisfactory, and however my mouth may water over Albion and other high-end swords, I'm afraid they're going to be out of my league for quite awhile, both in price and my abilities to practice with and fully appreciate them. Any feedback on the Arbedo sword or the manufacturer in general will be greatly appreciated.

Hey
Well, I was looking at that sword also and about a week ago a guy in England bought one and posted comments on International Sword Forum. He said that the stiffining ridge down the center of the blade shown in the catalogue was not there- it was a flat blade that bent a bit when he picked it up-flexed. Then he did some cutting on oak logs with it and did not bend it and it cut very well. Overall he's happy if I read his post right. A couple of others posted replies that they'd bought the sword and liked it. I hope that helps. Steve

MRL has shown some improvements in the last couple of years. Still not outstanding, but at this point I'd say that you'll get your monies worth. They do have a very good return policy, so if you aren't happy with the purchase you can return it. Considering where you're at in your collecting I'd say that the Arbedo would be a could starting point.

BTW, you won't learn any real historical techniques in the SCA. I did it for years and it may be a lot of fun, but a serious martial pursuit it isn't. If you want to learn genuine period swordsmanship I'd suggest that you try to find a school somewhere in your area. There are more and more of them popping up every day.

Travis - I'm in the same boat as you, age and money wise, but although I've never handled the Arbedo, threads like Kirk's project have placed it near the top of my "to buy" list ;)
Kirk - again, beautiful job!

Thanks David...

I am currently redoing a Godfred Viking Sword... Finishing up the silver wire wrap on the grip... Should have it finished in a month or so. Will post then.

ks