[Paul Watson]

Paul, it sounds as though you are after an earlier large war sword (great sword) rather than the later longswords. Regardless of a persons size my understanding which follows a lot of the comments in this thread is that use of the larger swords such as the Baron and Duke really is best in two hands. In the review on this site it is commented that even the smaller Count and Steward are sluggish in one hand.

Without the benefit of handling them I would have to say the opinions here about the Crecy seem to be logical. Comments about the Baron cutting better than the Crecy however need to be considered in context of historical applicability as Michael Edelson has done extensive test cutting against textile armour and found that the earlier cut oriented blades did not always perform as well as some later stiffer blade types. The Baron would definitely in many instances cut better against typical backyard cutting mediums however.

If a higher price is not an issue and later longswords do start to appeal you may want to consider Albions new Cluny or the Brescia, or even the Svante which is shorter in length but all who handle it say is good in one hand. Looking at your comments on what you are looking for, common opinion is that the Brescia is a civillian sword, not a battle field sword, and I do not know the intent of the Cluny although it appears to be designed for use against plate.

Also outside the square a little bit is the Discerner, I say all this assuming your'e well aware of them as youv'e obviously given Albions site a good looking over, but I guess you have already considered and discarded these options, it's just that these all appear to be two handers that may be easier to use in one hand than some other swords which largely appears to be what you are after.

As an aside although you have discarded single handers let me say that the Oakeshott is at least as good as everyone says. By far the most nimble single hander I have ever held, which includes swords of much shorter length, and swords of simlar length and weight to the Oakeshott. It just blows them all away in terms of agility.

[Paul B.G]

Thanks guys, sorry just getting back to your replies now. Ive pretty much made up my mind on the Crecy just need to sort out the storage requirements for owning a sword here in Victoria.

However before I place my order I just want to explore one more option. I came across this http://www.myArmoury.com/review_aa_custxx.html a custom by arms & armor, got me thinking to look into getting the Albion Oakeshott made with a 9” grip made by Arms & Armor, everything else the same.

What do you think? And how do swords made by Arms & Armor compare to Albion?

Cheers - Paul

[Eric G.]

[Nathan Robinson]

[Paul B.G]

Thanks guys I really appreciate your considered and constructive advice, its put me back on the right track and sorry it certainly was not my intention to be “lame”.

I’m off to the 2nd hand dealer later today to look into getting a lockable storage cabinet so I can comply with the Victorian regulations. However it is my intention to either make or find a lockable type of wall mount that can be easily unlocked with a key.

Sorry forgot to mention, I’ve decided to get the Crecy and probably at the same time order a Scabbard from DBK Custom Swords.

Im assuming it will take several weeks from the order, but ill certainly let you all know my reaction once received.

Thanks again.

Paul

[Paul Watson]

Paul, people will want to help you on this site and give what they think is sound advice because they have the same passion for this field of interest. The people here will do so without thinking any ideas are lame, especially when someone is starting out, that is one of the things that is so good about this site.

[Paul B.G]

lol sorry Paul I didn’t mean to imply that some of the comments weren’t “considered and constructive” I was actually trying to say thanks as all the reply’s were really helpful, nobody replied with one liners, Ie everyone gave me considered, thoughtful advice.

Thanks Again - Paul