[Ali Zufer]

I recently turned 18 and as such I am now able to legally own swords. And of course now that I can i also feel like I have to have one heh

Anyhow I am looking for a decent entry-level sword that isn't too expensive but that is good for the price and not a purchase I'd regret later on in life. Mostly I want a cusped Falchion or a Messer, however any tips on any other swords is appreciated as well.

Sometimes you find some surprisingly cheap gems, and I was mostly wondering if any of you know of such swords.

[Roger Hooper]

They don't have a messer of a falchion, but the best entry level swords, in my opinion, are the Hanwei Tinkers. They have good blade geometry and handle and cut like a medieval sword should. - http://kultofathena.com/s_results.asp?search=...mit=Search

[Michael P. Smith]

I'm also a fan of the Kingston Arms ATrim designed swords. Good starter pieces.

I own this one, and it is pretty good for the price:

http://www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=...-+Type+XIV

Definitely "starter" quality, but nice.

If you want a cheapish falchion, KoA has resurrected an old Windlass model:

http://www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=...on#Reviews

Throw on all the caveats about Windlass.... their QA can be hit and miss. You'll need to sharpen it. But this sword is sound historically (based on one depicted in art), and looks pretty good. The price is pretty attractive. Might be worth a roll of the proverbial dice.

[John Dunn]

[Michael Beeching]

I'm not sure of your location, so links to US Makers may not be that beneficial to you, but if you can scrounge a few more dollars together, you might consider Albion's Squire Line:

https://www.albion-swords.com/swords/albion/swords-albion-mark-squire.htm

I don't own one of those, but I have been tempted to get one - they do not come sharp but you certainly could sharpen them. I assume they are tough enough to abuse - which is actually an important quality in a weapon - while also retaining their value, at least to yourself, as you learn about swordsmanship, etc. Less expensive abuse-worthy swords, like Windlass, etc., might end up like clutter in your collection over time. More expensive pieces are generally not ones you'd feel comfortable putting up to such tests, though that doesn't stop some people.

Regardless of how much you spend, you're still going to spend good money on a sword - make sure you're happy with your purchase!