Posts: 170 Location: Los Angeles
Sat 30 Oct, 2010 5:13 pm
Here's a photo update of the sword from my review, if anyone is interested.
I've now received a custom scabbard, belt and suspension from Valiant Armoury to match the Venetian Bastard Sword, and I'm very pleased with the results.
The belt is somewhat simple, but functional and comfortable to wear. The overall effect of each element is a reasonable interpretation of a 15th century Italian sword, though not completely accurate.
I still find the most impressive aspect of the Venetian Bastard to be its handling. The way this sword moves is sublime.
It behaves very similarly to my Fletcher Borderwatch sword built on an Albion
Crecy blade, and depending on my mood, I often prefer the Venetian in-hand. The two swords share the same static
balance point, the same blade width, and are very close in length (with the Albion being slightly longer) and each has superb distribution of mass to create a pleasing dynamic balance.
The difference they do have in handling is subtle, but distinct. The best (inadequate) description I can offer is that the Albion blade "floats and glides" whereas the Angus Trim "whips and bites." The Borderwatch is slightly more substantial in hand and gives the impression of a regal tool of war, while the Venetian feels like a more streamlined and vicious civilian weapon by comparison. All of which is a rather roundabout way to say that the Albion Crecy blade is known for its pleasant handling characteristics, and this sword offers a similar level of satisfaction for this collector (albeit of a slightly different flavor).
I am very thankful to have both in my collection, and I think these blood-red swords complement each other well.
(Continued below...)