The Captains Trunk

If you have any interest in medieval European history, it s quite likely that you would at sometime have considered buying a medieval sword to showcase on your wall or to take to that enactment fair. But where do you start?

Buying a sword can be a quite a confusing process. After all there are literally thousands of different sword manufacturers and retailers- many different materials to choose from. It should be the beginning of a richly rewarding hobby and it is important to ensure that first purchase is exactly what you want.

First, it may seem obvious but why do you want a sword? Do you want something to hang on the wall and occasionally take down to show to your friends and family or do you is it a sword that you actually want to use in a battle re-enactment? If it is just for show then you should choose one made from stainless steel as this will need little or no upkeep. If however it is to be a functional weapon then you will need a sword that is manufactured from forged hard carbon steel. Proper care must be taken of this as it will rust over time if neglected.

If a costume sword is required to add to your role playing event be it Renaissance or any kind of Medieval festival, care should be taken to ensure it is accompanied by a belt and scabbard. Buying one to fit the sword separately could be tricky because sword come in all different sizes.

There are three main types of basic sword from which you should make your choice to help you narrow down from a field of literally thousands.

Replicas of Traditional Swords. Could be the famous Scottish Claymore, Calvary Sabre or even the infamous Japanese Samurai Sword.

Movie Replica Swords The choice is vast from Aragon’s sword in Lord of the Rings, Russell Crowe’s Gladiatorial Sword to even the many versions of the Sword used in the Latest King Arthur film.

Fantasy Swords. Usually these are highly stylised sporting intricately worked hilts and equally bizarre blades usually these are purely for display purposes.

So, having narrowed down the field to one of the above three categories where do you start to look for your ideal weapon and what should you look for before purchasing?

Make sure that if you are buying a new sword you choose a reputable dealer and that it comes with an extensive warranty and even cooling off period so that if you are not completely satisfied it can be returned without question. If buying online ensure that when buying from a specialist site that the same guarantees are in place complete with secure payment facilities and sufficient customer support details.

Swords have been around for thousands of years and although the methods of acquiring them and the actual reason for having a magnificent weapon may have changed over the centuries, you are still following in a long tradition of men down through the ages. They have all chosen it because it makes them happy – it fills right in their hand and fulfils their chosen task.

Take your time in choosing the right sword now and you will be on the road to starting a great and fascinating hobby.