I was thinking of picking up one of these three, sharpened, for light test-cutting for my WMA group. We need a short sword to test cut with now that we have started to get the hang of our excellent little Albion Constable.

Of the three, I have handled the MRL katzbalger which at least superficially seems pretty nice. I wonder if anyone has any idea of the handling / balance of the baselard and that little 'coustille' they make. I particularly like the idea of the baselard (being a fan of the Swiss confederacy) but wonder about the balance etc. as it doesn't have much of a pommel?

I know MRL is hit and miss with quality from one piece to the next, so with regard to these weapons, does anyone know of anecdotes of problems such as the fittings being loose, (especially) weak tangs, breaking blades etc.?

Also, is anyone familiar with the Celtic swords MRL makes, such as these two theoretically still available through ancient edge (though who knows, they don't seem to have updated their website in several years...):

http://www.ancientedge.com/product_94_detailed.html
http://www.ancientedge.com/product_143_detailed.html

( speaking of websites, how come it seems like the MRL website...
http://www.museumreplicas.com/webstore/Home.aspx
...ldoesn't list their 'Towton' sword, they haven't discontinued that have they?

Finally, is anyone making kriegmesser or gross messr (or langen messer) replicas other than Albion and Cold Steel?

Jean

Ancient Edge may very well be selling off their existing stock, but as an on-going business, it's a good bet that they are essentially defunct. As you mention, their site has not been updated. I'd expect that many, if not most, of the items are not in stock and the only way to tell would be to give them a call. They are operated by the guys at Bugei and so they are a responsible business that will serve you well by answering your questions directly.