Hello:

I like the big two-handed sword that is displayed with Henry VIII's "Tonlet" armour - the one with a metal skirt. What kind of sword is it? Was it ever used? Is there a replica available on the market?

Thank you.

I believe that is an estoc/tuck - a thrusting longsword derivate designed for piercing armor.

Hi Dustin,
The sword with the Henry VIII tonlet armour is a two-handed sword of a specifically English style. It dates from the late 15th century and could have actually been wielded by Henry himself in a tournament, as described in Edward Hall's contemporary 'Chronicle' :"hys grace with two other with hym chalenged all commers to fighte with theim....xii strokes with twohanded swordes...". You can read more about these swords (quite a sizeable group in all) in the catalogue to The 18th Park Lane Arms Fair, London 2001, (that very photo is on the cover), main article, + addenda in the catalogues in 2004 and 2007. Hope you can track them down.
Neil

hey Dustin!!!

Here is the information for the sword you refer to.

Two-handed sword, probably English, about 1500.
Royal Armouries accession number: IX.633.
Provenance: Transferred from the Royal Arsenal at Woolwich to the Royal Armouries in 1927.
The wooden grip and binding is modern.
Overall length: 1620 mm (63.8 inches)
Blade length: 1130 mm (44.5 inches)
Weight: 3.15 kg (6 lb 9 oz)

It is currently on display at the Tower of London, in our new exhibition in the White Tower, Henry 8th: Dressed to Kill.

I hope this information is helpful to you, personally this is my favorite renaissance sword, i really love two handers and this is the perfect two handed sword

kind regards

Check out this similar sword from Christies:

http://www.christies.com/Lotfinder/lot_detail...ID=5211774

Danny