So, you have to go custom. Which I wasn't prepared to do -- you have to budget in advance, wait a long time, etc. etc. Not to mention the cost. I took the easy route -- I bought a custom sword used. It was originally commissioned by a Greek reenactor in the Czech Republic, from a Czech maker whose name I have seen a time or two on these fora, Robert Moc. I first saw pics of the sword online years before I bought it, and even then I thought it was one of the best reconstructions of a kopis I'd seen. When the opportunity presented itself I jumped at the chance. The price, although certainly not cheap, was more than reasonable for a custom sword by one of the best makers in the world.
This sword is based on an original in the National Museum in Athens, and really captures the essence of what a kopis was, a fairly long, graceful hacking sword. This is the sword Xenophon was talking about when he recommended the kopis for cavalry use. It is incredible to wield; The previous owner said that it positively invited you to swing and cut with it, which it indeed does. I had, sometime in the past, compared the kopis in general to the later yataghan, a comparison for which I received some criticism. This sword would put that criticism to rest.
The hilt is built "sandwich-style". That is, the sword has a full-profile tang, to which wood grips are attached, over which is a thin cover of bronze or brass. This is not at all bulky or uncomfortable, in fact it's one of the best grips I've felt on a sword of similar style.
The sword is made of an unknown carbon steel. I do not know how well it's tempered, but knowing Mr. Moc's reputation I am not too concerned about this. The blade is quite stiff.
Some stats:
Overall Length: 30.25 inches
Blade length: 24.5 inches
PoB/CoG: 5 inches
CoP: 17 inches (approx)
Blade width: 1.5 inches at widest point, near the CoP
Weight: 2.2. lbs
It comes with a very nice scabbard. Accurate? I have no idea, but it seem reasonable to me (Okay, maybe I'm not that anal).
I do actually have a criticism -- the blade is unedged. It was made for a reenactor, so this is to be expected. I am certain that sharpening wouldn't be much or a problem, should I choose to do it at some future point.
Anyway, I am one happy Hellenist. I've made some really nice deals lately on the used sword market, and this is definitely one of them. This sword is everything I've been looking for in a kopis, and now it's mine. Opa!
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