I thought that you may like to see the lengths that Dave Roper goes to get things right. The original jewels had two different patterns of chequered, gold foils under the garnets to reflect the light and create varying visual effects - and he has managed to incorporate the same on these. They are just 2 cms wide.

The Barta sword will go on permanent display at the Sutton Hoo Visitors' Centre after next Friday, so I will only have the one sword soon.

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It's an interesting dilemma--giving up an older, longer-held sword to an informational display center, while holding on to the newer, arguably more accurate reproduction. More accuracy is good for the owner and the center; and a sword long held can be hard to let go of--especially a commissioned piece. I do not envy your dilemma, but I do envy your swords, so I think it works out in the end :)

Bad news, Paul

The quality is up to standards. But I will do you a favor and take them off your hands for free. Just send them to me ASAP.

Who said that I never did anything for you?

:D

Paul,
only one left ? That's terrible. I really think you will need to shop around and get at least a back-up. One sword can be left at a pub on a rowdy night, forgotten in the horse drawn taxi taking you home, pinched, pilferred and otherwise be done with. All these eventualities need to be considered when making out a budget, so happy shopping. I would be curious to see what you and Jake Powning could come up with...

Thanks for the offers to take a sword or two of my hands, if only I was rich I'd buy you all at least one each.

The new reconstruction was a very interesting project and I had a lot of help from all concerned. Thank you all for your encouraging and kind comments

What to do next? I would like to look at getting a sword made based on one of the Danish bog finds. That is, if I don't get stared on doing more stuff for Sutton Hoo.

Best,


Paul

Sutton Hoo is fantastic. Hands down. But a danish bog find? Nydam/Kragehul swords? That's the bee's knees man! Let me know if you decide to do that (please), I'd like to learn more about them and the custom process. Just think, a beautiful pattern-welded blade with one of those sexy bronze plated hourglass grips... :D

Paul,
Now, you know I love woodworking....
Well If the PB Hoo sword was to go to me, then I promise I'll knock you up a
lovely re creation of the SH ship. Full scale, in Swedish pine.
I should have it finished in time for you to be buried in it.
(not inferring that's any time soon!)
So, good deal?

Just when I'm sure your efforts can't possibly get any more impressive, you go to a whole new level.

Congratulations on a fine sword, and equal congratulations to the master craftsmen involved in the project. Truly an inspiring effort.