[Joe Fults]

No pictures yet.

I played with this at the Atlanta Bladeshow and decided I needed one. While waiting for it to arrive, I almost forgot why because the sword looks fairly plain in pictures. It arrived yesterday and now I remember why I wanted it.

Albion's Landgraf is an Oakeshott Type XVII. Really about the only one on the market I'm aware of. XVIIs are a type most of us tend to overlook, even in the Albion Next Generation line IMO. That's a B-I-G mistake.

Repeat, overlooking this XVII is a BIG MISTAKE.

Albion's version is on the light end of the type according to Oakeshott, but it is "uncomplicated" as he notes most specimens of the type tned to be. He says these blades were made to defeat plate and are thus designed to be strong and stiff. Certainly the case with the Landgraf, but it is also light and fast in the hand with effective cutting ability. In this case the result is a stunninging elegant yet simple weapon. To me, not at all boring like Oakeshott says are so common for specimnes of the type.

On the other hand, perhaps this XVII is just really special? Regardless, the Landgraf is a stunning and surprising sword that I am very glad I purchased.

[James Byrnes]

The XVII is a type that is sorely under-represented in the market place. Albion and Peter have a done a fantastic job bringing not just one, but TWO fine interpretations of this type to the market. Well done you guys!

I hope that the Landgraf gives you a lifetime of enjoyment, and we are looking forward to a review and pictures.



JB