[Howard Waddell]

This is the second in a continuing series of articles we have been working on to explain the processes we use in the making of our swords. (There is a little repetition between this one and the one accessible at the top of our page, but the idea is to make each one stand alone as well as be part of a series.)

http://albionarmorers.com/components.htm

Please let me know what you think.

Best,

Howy

[Jeremiah Swanger]

[David McElrea]

Hi Howy,

It's an excellent article-- thanks for the insight into the different levels of craftsmanship that go into each blade. I think it balances well with the earlier article. While, as you say, there may be some repetition, it works well and doesn't feel redundant in its context.

I have to "tip my hat" to your decision to be so transparent in your creative processes. As a customer it makes me feel like I have been made privy to the work that goes into my sword-- making it feel that much more personal. Also, it shows your work to be of the highest caliber (if you will excuse my mixing metaphors)--Quality needs no shadows to hide in.

Regards,

David

[Brian M]

Very informative, Howy. I had some idea how the casting process worked, but frankly I was amazed to see how much work has to be done (by you) on the rough castings. It gives me a much better conception of how much time and effort is involved -- to say nothing of the blade manufacture. I think this and upcoming articles will educate a lot of people who might otherwise just "shop price" when looking at swords, if you know what I mean.
Looking forward to my own Baron, next week perhaps.

Brian M

[Gary Grzybek]

Thanks Howy!

I had no doubt about the extensive amount of work that goes into these weapons although it's very helpful to see much of the process in writing to get a better understanding.

Spreading the word,

[Joe Fults]

Neat concept and a good read. I look forward to the of the series.

[Nathan Robinson]

Hey Howy, this article is really quite good.. I can't wait to see the next installments and the whole thing as one cohesive piece. Very nice.

[Bill Grandy]

Finally had some time to actually read the entire article in one sitting. Fantastic stuff! I think many people underestimate the process of casting. I think some people assume that it's just a matter of pouring some metal in a mold, and presto, you're done.

I recall people thinking Gus's swords were also easily made. They assumed that he just punches in some numbers in a CNC machine, and out comes a finished sword blade. Articles like this show that even though we have modern means of mass production, there's still a lot of personal human interaction with the making of these swords.

[Jon C. Webb]

Howy,
Thanks for the clear explanations and helpful photos allowing me to see the literal processes involved in casting. I look forward to my first Albion.

[Alexi Goranov]

Hi Howy,

Even if I may sound somewhat redundant : Great article!

After reading it I had few questions, so I decided to post them here.

The article mentions that the wooden core of the grip is "epoxied permanently into place". Does that allow changing the grip, is a customer later wants a different size/shape grip or if this one gets damaged for whatever reason?

Also, how were period grips stably fitted into place? Apparently hilt components of period swords were sometimes changed to reflect new fashions or due to damage, so how did they do that?

I am asking these questions more from the perspective of how swords were assembled centuries ago, and there is no criticism intended. I am sure the Albion crew does its best to make high-quality, period reproductions.

We have not head yet about the wire grip options on Albion swords (hint, hint) Since few people asked (on another thread) I am raising the issue again.

Cheers,

Alexi

[Howard Waddell]

[Todd M. Sullivan]

Excellent, I always wanted to visit Albion but this helps to show what the man behind the curtain does. Thanks Howy

Todd

[Randal Graham]

All the articles are awesome, best written of any of the type I've seen.

[Howard Waddell]

[William Goodwin]

Great article Howy. Gives excellent insight to what actually goes in to making just one of Albion's fine wares.


William
aka Bill

[M. Taylor]

Howy, I can't believe I was such a lazy sod and took so long to read this. That was excellent! It's really gratifying to see the care you guys take in making your swords and a good education for us. I work for a company that makes industrial/motion control systems, so I have a real fascination with manufacturing processes. Looking forward to the next installment. Keep up the good work!