[JE Sarge]

Got in a couple of older Krupp steel Del Tins from the mid-1990s for overhauls this week.

Each sword was re-peened, as age and use had made the furniture loose. The grips were stripped, refinished, bound with cord/risers, and given new pigskin covers. The grips were then burnished and aged to match the natural appearance of the furniture.

The pommel on the smaller sword required an extensive refinish, as it was originally severely tarnished brass plate. All of the plating was removed by hand, and the pommel was given a 400 grit satin finish. The recesses were darkened with cold blue.

Each has a poplar core scabbard, covered in 2-3oz leather with a heavy textured grain. The shorter blade has a double-loop frog for vertical wear. The 1.5 hander has a hand-tied two-point suspension. The colors used were antique golden brown and oxblood, with the colors alternating between each sword. Risers were added for accent, and each is finished with a mild steel chape with finial.

The belt can be used with either sword as the suspensions are completely removable.

[Bryan Johnson]

Nice work. The scabbards have that neat working sword feel. The old Del Tin swords aren't too bad. I like the Krupp steel better than the chrome vanadium steel being used now. Good color design they flow well. Also like the scabbard shaping around the hilt of the single hander.