Greetings all,
I am curious about the comparison between modern methods of tang construction as compared with period methods. I am new to the "real" sword world although I have been sport fencing for quite a while. as a newcommer to this realm, the variety of methods used today are a bit confusing. Is a welded tang a viable option, or are one piece weapons more desirable?

Thanks,

Typically you want to avoid welded tangs like the plague. However, some makers can make a strong welded tang. Check out www.lutel.cz and have a look at the pictures of how they construct their welded tangs. I have yet to hear about someone having a problem with one of their tangs.

Thanks for the help guys. I figured that a welded tang would be bad news but wanted it confirmed. Although those Czech (I think) guys have an interesting approach. Jason, I am assuming that the albion tangs are all milled as part of the blade and the hot peened? It didn't explicitly say so but that's what I got from reading the article. BTW can't wait to read the other articles when they are available.

Thanks,

Welded tangs can be quite strong, but many importers of lower-end weapons have tarnished the welded tang through thier poor quality control. I prefer to avoid welding on a tang, myself. The peening method used by many companies is the most period for most pieces, and done correctly is quite strong. The method used by myself and Atrim with the counter-sunk nut is also very strong, as is the hybrid 'nut and peen' that A&A used to (still does?) use. The basic rule is less for a specific type than for the overall quality of the piece- a very high-quality piece is liable to have better construction than a poor one. Alas, it's also likely to cost more.