Spasimir Ivanov
Location: Bulgaria Joined: 27 Oct 2013
Posts: 4
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Posted: Wed 13 Nov, 2013 7:33 am Post subject: Cross-guard width |
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Hi guys,
I am getting a custom made hand and half sword and as such, I have to come up with the specifications myself. I am almost ready but it seems I cannot find enough information on cross guard width. I won't get as far as to say I want a historically accurate guard, since there a ton of different variations and Oakeshott said that ones he listed as typical are a guideline, not a rule, but I want at least historically plausable. However, I cannot seem to find many examples of large cross-guards on a hand and half swords from the 14-15 century. I know of the massive ones on the two handers, but they are from the Renaissance. I remember reading somewhere that if unsure, you can make it the same length as the grip and it won't be wrong, but I am interested in ones as large as these ones:
http://www.myArmoury.com/review_mrl_towt.html
http://www.myArmoury.com/review_pmc_bast1.html
http://www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=...Long+Sword
In other words the cross-guard as large as the handle. The third sword is close to what I have in mind - 25 cm (10") handle and cross-guard, I just want mine with a bit shorter blade. I guess this will be an infantry sword because such a large cross-guard can be of a nuisance when riding a horse. I rely, maybe too much, on Albion when seeking historical accuracy, but all their cross-guards are of lesser width (proportion to the handle). Has any of you seen such swords in museums around the world?
Not to miss something very important, I am speaking of Oakeshott types XVIa, XVIIIb and XXa.
So, what do you guys think?
I think this can be a topic of great interest to people who are not copying museum pieces, but want something original, yet true to the time period.
“I do not love the bright sword for it's sharpness, nor the arrow for it's swiftness, nor the warrior for his glory. I love only that which they defend”
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