[Michael Pearce]

Oakeshott Type: XIV
Overall Length: 31-3/4 inches
Blade Length: 24-3/4 inches
Blade width @ Base: 2-1/8 inches
Blade Width 3 inches from point: 1 inch
Blade Thickness @ Base: .185 inch
Blade Thickness 2 inches from Point: .095 inch
Hilt Overall Length: 7 inches
Length of Handle: 4-1/4 inches
Center of Gravity: 2-3/4 inches from guard
Location of Blade Node (measured from Guard): 17 inches
Primary Hilt Node: approx. 1/2 inch from cross on handle
Weight: 1lbs 15oz
Short single-hand sword Circa 1250-1350 AD of a type often referred to as a 'Riding Sword.' Blade is 5160 spring steel hardened to HRc52-54, with the tang and shoulder of the blade drawn to HRc45-48. Furniture is Mild Steel. The handle is sandwiched hardwood wrapped in linen cord and covered with a dark purple leather.

Swords of this type seem to have been referred to as 'Riding Swords' to distinguish them from 'Arming Swords.' they are essentially smaller versions of Arming Swords but are intended as 'walking around swords' worn when traveling, hunting or other occasions where war-gear was not being worn. This sword is very light and fast; very 'handy.' Of particular interest to recreators; today, as then, this sword will be easier to carry and live with than a full-sized arming sword.

More pics and information may be found here: http://www.tinkerswords.com/Page%203.html

[Jim Mearkle]

OooOOOOH!!!!!!