[JE Sarge]

This interesting little piece came from the Bruce Brookhart collection. Though Museum Replicas originally named this a Swiss War Sword, it's been called a Gothic Estoc by others. I prefer the later, because the sword seems to fit this bill better, with it's slender 38" long blade, light weight, hexagonal cross section (which tapers to an acute point), and stylish Type V pommel. The sword was discontinued many years ago, but Bruce's release of some of his personal pieces onto the market allowed this one to be obtained.

Let's look at the unaltered original:



Not a bad looking sword at all, but definately in need of some work to make it work as part of a kit.

The sword was in overall good shape when I got it, needing only minor restoration here and there. Liking the design, the customer and I discussed several ideas to make this discontinued and older Windlass model come unto it's own as a stylishly unique blade.

Here is the laundry list of what I did to this little gem:

- Blended the peen to make it completely invisible.
- Removed the Windlass clear coat protectant from all surfaces.
- Gave the entire blade and all furniture a 400 grit satin finish.
- Cleaned up minor casting flaws.
- Reprofiled the grip to a waisted shape more indicative of the sword type.
- Added risers and an oxblood leather cover to the grip, which was bound with cord to give detail.
- Crafted a poplar-core, black leather covered scabbard; with risers to match the blade ridge and fit the suspension loops.
- Fit a mild steel chape with finial.
- Created a 3/4" leather belt and 3 point suspension for the scabbard.

This is a wonderful little blade. The weight on it is only around 2.5 lbs, and it's both nimble and fast. Suprisingly, on this particular model of Windlass, the blade does not present too much flex for the type. This unique MRL Gothic Estoc is one of the better models of Windlass I have had the experience of dealing with. It was a pleasure to work on it to give it more of a period look - one which looks much nicer than the original plain Jane appearance.

[Guy H.]

That's a good looking rig! That's an MRL sword?

[William Swiger]

Nice restoration on the sword and the scabbard is nice as well.