I'm looking to get a type XIV, and am currently considering Albion's yeoman or sheriff, since they are somewhat cheaper than the sovereign. Does anybody own either of these or other type XIVs and can give some insight into how good they are?

I own the Sherriff, but have not had the oportunity to handle the others. I like the Sherriff quite a bit. It is a handy little sword that feels very natural in the hand. Since I am used to slightly longer blades, I had to adjust to cutting a bit, as one has to step closer to the target. It cuts very well, and it has very good point control. Since the blade on the Sherriff and Yeoman are the same, the differences are likely to be subtle. I am pretty sure there are a couple people around here who have the Yeoman, so hopefully they can give you some insight on that side.

-Grey

I handled the Yeoman and Sovereign side by side (briefly). I believe my Sovereign was a touch quicker in the hand with a slightly closer POB, but the Yeoman was lighter overall and might have had a little more blade presence. But it's hard to remember a few minutes from 7 months ago. :)

Aesthetically, I prefer the Sovereign over the Yeoman and Sheriff. Between the Sheriff and Yeoman, I prefer the Yeoman.

I have handled all three on a couple of occasions, but don't own any of them. In my opinion, go with aesthetics. The handling of the three is so close that I doubt you will notice it significantly.

I agree with Scott. I've handled all three, and the differences seemed pretty subtle. I want to say the Soverign felt a little bit heavier than the other two, but it was quite a while ago, and I don't really remember it that well. I think the best way to decide would be to balance aestetics and price and decide which one seems like the best buy to you. Handling wise, I doubt you'd find much difference, so price and looks are what I would focus on.

Kenton