Hi, I've been looking around to buy my first sword and so I thought I'd ask for some advice from some of the experienced people on this forum.

For my sword I'm looking for a longsword from the early medieval period, somewhere around the 12th-14th century, something that the crusader and Templar knights would have used. I'd like something that is somewhat optimised for cutting, I believe a Type XIIIa is what I'm looking for.

I saw Darksword armouries had what I'm looking for in their Templar Swords model #1339 and #1340, however I've read bad things about DSA, like they are too heavy, not a good cutting surface etc. However as of yet I've been unable to find a good similar model other producers so that's where I'm looking for suggestions.

My price range of around $400-$1000, I want something that is somewhat historically accurate, reasonable handling, good quality and durable construction that I can use to cut things up with and practice my swings. I don't want something I would be deathly afraid to damage because it cost more than a lot of cars.

Thanks.

While I do not own this particular sword may I suggest this sword. You would have to stretch your budget but it is considered a XIIIa and fits your time frame.

http://arms-n-armor.com/sword089.html

While not a XIIIa, the Albion Squire Line Late 13th Century Greatsword otherwise fits your description, as well as your price range: http://www.albion-swords.com/swords/albion/sq...rd-MII.htm You would have to pay extra for the sharpening though, which does have a secondary bevel.

The Albion Steward is just over $1000.00. But if you want a good sword, I sayk go with the best - https://www.albion-swords.com/swords/albion/nextgen/sword-medieval-steward-xiiia3.htm - There are other XIIa's and XIIIa's there, between $1000.00 and $1100.00.

A step or two down from Albions, but still good swords - Valiant Armory - http://www.valiant-armoury.com/

This sword from Valiant Armoury looks good, and it comes with it's own scabbard which is important to me. But it is almost a pound lighter than similar swords, I thought that a bit odd. I don't want a sword that is too light.

https://sbg-sword-forum.forums.net/thread/49533/sale-albion-duke this might interest you DISCLAIMER: That is not me or anybody I know, would get it myself if nto for the fact it's in the damn USA

Have you looked at the Windlass Battlecry line? I don't have one, but their Agincourt model looks pretty good, and from all the reviews I've read, they are tough as heck. Not a lot of money there, and you can thrash away without too much worry. I'm sure you can get one 'down under'. :) Just a thought. :) .........McM

The Duke is a pretty awesome sword. I don't have one, but have handled one. Unfortunately, I'm not really on an Albion budget so I settled for a H/T GSOW. Very good for me---after a little work on the grip and edge. :D ..........McM

Well, better to save up IMO, you will probably end up selling the cheaper stuff to buy better quality swords in the end anyway. And since you are located in Australia there was was a guy selling a Svante in there. I'ts way more in terms of price, but you save up on shipping, which considering you are overseas can get quite costly. And it's an almost-exact replica of an original sword. Costs a lot of monnies tho even with the greatly reduced price.

https://sbg-sword-forum.forums.net/thread/49292/sale-albion-svante-australia -the selling thread

Our friend Mark T (New Zealand) is selling this A&A piece: http://myArmoury.com/talk/viewtopic.php?t=33989&highlight=

If you're thinking about going for a higher end piece, you may consider ordering from Manning Imperial. They are an Australian company, and I've heard allot of good things about them. http://www.manningimperial.com/catalogue/swords/longswords/53

Generally speaking, your inclination to save for a higher quality entry point is a good one. For my first sword I went for the DSA, and was disappointed.

Manning truly does have some spectacular weapons and armor, but their prices are :eek: ...............McM

If an Albion or A&A (or something of similar quality) is at all within your budget, I recommend spending the money. When I was younger, I picked up a few cheap ones just to have a sword and found them strangely unsatisfying. The hand knows a fine weapon when it holds one.

I have two swords from Manning Imperial. Love them both. Pricing is very reasonable for the quality.

I haven't owned them personally but you might consider the Lockwood XIIa or XIIIa: http://www.lockwood-swords.com/index.php?rout...mp;path=33

He also works with Valiant. His own line appears to be more refined but is still in your price range. They are also at Kult of Athena.