All categories
Featured selections
Trade Assurance
Buyer Central
Help Center
Get the app
Become a supplier

About longswords

Types of Longswords

For the long sword, several popular types of patterns were shaped through cultural developments and fighting practices.

  • Arming sword

    The late medieval and early modern types of long swords feature a double-edged tapering blade with a cruciform grip. The very features of this sword made it also easy to wield, giving the user great control for defense and precise strikes. The longsword was a useful weapon for fighting as well as an important tool for mounted and infantry soldiers.

  • Bastard sword

    The bastard sword is a unique type of longsword blade with a hilt longer than the arming sword but shorter than the great swords. The blade was sharp on both edges and had a wider base. The hilt usually had a guard with cross-like features to protect the hands holding the sword. The design of some aspects of the sword allowed it to be used with one hand or both hands. The skillful balance and ergonomics gave good flexibility in different combat techniques and made it an ideal weapon for varied combat.The design of some aspects of the sword allowed it to be used with one hand or both hands. The Middle Ages saw the rise of this sword's use in different combat styles.

  • Great sword

    The great sword was very large in size, with a blade in the range of 35 to 50 inches. It was designed for powerful strikes and wide slicing due to this size. The long handle allowed two-handed use for maximum leverage. A wider blade and a longer reach than other swords allowed the user to fight well against armored and unarmored foes from a distance.The very large size of the great sword, with a blade ranging from 35 to 50 inches, was designed for powerful strikes and wide slicing.The long handle allowed two-handed use for maximum leverage. Its size gave the user great reach over opponents and made it useful against armored and unarmored foes.

  • Claymore

    The claymore long sword for sale had distinctive features that set it apart from any other sword. It was a two-handed sword with a broad blade, usually over 40 inches long, and featured a notable hilt with sideways branches or guards. The balance of the sword was quite extraordinary, enabling the user to deliver striking blows while retaining control during defensive movements.The double-edged, broad blade and large hilt with crossguards defined the claymore's unique form. It was designed as a two-handed sword, over 40 inches long. Excellent balance permitted powerful strikes while allowing defensive control.

  • Landsknecht sword

    The Landsknecht sword was a characteristic weapon of the German mercenaries in the 16th century. It was a versatile blade generally long and very wide, meant for slicing as well as thrusting. The blade had a rich and diverse ornamental style, adding to its beauty and expense. Uncomplicated cross-guard grips promoted easy handling in different combat situations. It could be suitably used to perform cuts, thrusts, and half-swording techniques for effectiveness in numerous battles.The blade was generally long and very wide, sometimes even extra long, meant for slicing as well as thrusting. The Landsknecht sword's rich, diverse flamboyant style embellished it lovely but expensive. Uncomplicated cross-guard grips and easy handling offered efficacy in different combat. Cuts, thrusts, and half-swording techniques were performed effectively for usefulness in numerous battles.

Materials & Durability of Longswords

The long sword was manufactured using quality materials, further providing premium durability and combat performance.

  • Sword blades and steel types

    In the Medievals, swordsmiths ideally used quality wrought iron steel with quality carbon content. This combination provided an ideal balance of toughness, edge retention, and flexibility. High-carbon steel offered sharper edges and longer wear but required more careful use to avoid brittleness.

  • Temper and hardness

    Long swords usually had well-controlled tempering processes that added to blade durability and flex. Quenching in oil or water with gradual heating could produce varieties of hardness zones, allowing for a sharp edge and a softer spine to absorb shocks. This combination ensured that the sword resisted chipping or breaking even during fierce combats.

  • Materials used in handles

    Handles or grips used wood, leather, or metal, and well-comforted ergonomics provided a firm hold for reliability in different fighting styles. Wood was molded into an easy-held shape, while leather wraps provided a secure gripping base that absorbed sweat. Metal grips added weight to balance the blade. Proper maintenance through regular cleaning and oiling guaranteed durability for a longer period.

  • The cross-guard and pommel construction

    The cross-guard and pommels were made of hard metals such as bronze, brass, or iron alloys. They could constructively protect the hand from slipping during battle. They also contributed to the sword's overall durability and helped with balance and control in use.Prominent guards protected the hands constructively. They contributed to the sword's overall durability and helped balance and control in use.

Scenarios

The longsword continues to serve a wide range of functions, from historical reenaction and combat training to being prized as a captivating collectible.

  • Historical re-enactment

    One of the major uses of longswords in modern times is in historical re-enactments, where people try to depict medieval events accurately. For this, they wear period clothing and use real, non-dangerous long swords to mimic historical battles and daily life. This gives onlookers a clear view of the past.

  • Collection

    Longswords are very popular with a lot of historical and weapon enthusiasts. Such people tend to appreciate the artistry and workmanship of various blades and sometimes invest in rare or valuable models. These swords are sometimes displayed in glass cases by collectors to be displayed for admirers, or sometimes they are simply stored as investment pieces.

  • Martial arts and training

    Longswords are widely practiced in various forms of sword fighting. In such programs, trainees study historical techniques in order to wield and fight with the longsword properly. Wooden or blunted metal replicas are commonly used in practice to ensure safety while promoting skill and conditioning for competition.

  • Sport

    Modern Olympic fencing includes events involving different types of swords. Long swords were used in the early stages of sword fighting and serve as a basis for some sword sporting moves and strategies. Interest in historical sword fighting sports is expressed through competitions that test technique and give participants a sense of community.

  • Artistic representation

    Longswords are one of the most popular elements used in art, literature, and media. From paintings and novels to motion pictures and video games, they depicted swords held by heroic figures. Because of this, they became a metaphor for struggles and determination, hence expanding their image to modern culture.

How to Choose Longswords

Buying a long sword means weighing steel type, size, form, and goal.

  • Blade material

    High-carbon steel is standard for performance, as the edges remain sharper and last longer. Spring steel blades offer flexibility to absorb shocks. For decorative purposes, stainless steel, while rust-resistant, does not have the same practical cutting ability. The function intended will help determine the type of blade steel.

  • Handle design

    Handles should be comfortable and secure. A well-comforted grip minimizes hand fatigue during extended use. The balance between the hilt and blade influences control. A handle that puts the sword in a better balance eases maneuvering for defense and attack.

  • Purpose

    For practical use such as training or live fighting, a longsword made with good quality, functional craftsmanship will endure the stresses of combat. For decorative pieces, swords might be valued more for attractive designs and historical relevance than for actual use, although many lovely decorative swords are also strong.

  • Weight and balance

    The balance point needs to be considered since it vastly affects maneuverability. A blade heavier towards the pommel provides more stability in strikes. In contrast, a handle-heavy sword allows easier, quick cuts. The weight also affects control when doing different fencing techniques.

  • Blade length and width

    The ideal blade sizes depend on the user's body and purpose. Longer blades are fitting for reach and powerful strikes, while shorter ones allow fast cutting and better control. For the most part, wider blades confer strength for heavy-duty work, and thinner ones are well suited to target thrusts.

Q&A

Q. What makes longswords unique?

Their length, double-edge blade, and cross-hilt grip set the longsword apart. The size permits versatile one-handed or two-handed use for offense and defense, ideal for numerous combat tactics, including thrusts and slashes.

Q. When were longswords commonly used?

Longswords were mainly used in the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance eras. They became famous during this time, as warfare required more versatile fencing techniques to combat armor efficiently.

Q. What were the benefits of a longsword?

They could cut, thrust, and counter other weapons due to their versatility. With a longer reach than many sidearms, they enabled warriors to engage foes from a distance and were effective against armor.

Q. How does one store and care for a longsword?

Regular cleaning and oiling prevent rust on the blade. Keeping it dry, wrapped in a cloth, in a cool, dry area avoids moisture. Swords should be inspected periodically for wear to maintain function.

Q. Can a longsword be used for self-defense?

Combat training blades closely mimic historical designs, allowing students to learn age-old fighting techniques safely. The steel construction provides sturdiness, permitting vigorous practice of defense and offensive moves.