A historical sword was a symbol of bravery and prestige. Not just anyone could have one. They were earned and with them came respect. Swords literally carved out kingdoms throughout history. Tough, functional, and effective in hand-to-hand combat, they were the choice of royalty, knights, men-at-arms, and peasants alike.
Many use the term “battle-ready swords,” but what does that mean exactly? Essentially, they are hand-forged, fully functional blades made of high-carbon steel that can perform like the originals. Unlike stainless steel, this can be too brittle to handle a true battle situation. Historical swords can be used in training and live reenactments. Use common sense though, if bashing edge-to-edge. Use the right tool – a theatrical blade with rounded edges and tip. Historical swords are the kind of blades used in medieval and Renaissance fairs, Civil War reenactments and shows for fencing and simulated battles. High-carbon spring steel is generally the strongest material used in blade making and we feature 1065-1095 on our site. It is the steel of choice for battle-ready swords, which can then be hand forged and tempered. We offer a good selection of historically accurate functional blades from the US Revolutionary War and Civil War to more current military offerings. To hold a functional full-tang blade is to come face to face with history. They look like the originals, were made like them, and flex and balance like their historic counterparts.
Products featured on Atlanta Cutlery and its sister website Museum Replicas include historical swords from the ancient Greek, Rome, Viking, Medieval and the Renaissance periods up to the American Civil War. Fancy yourself a Musketeer or knight errant? How about a Spanish conquistador or marauding Viking? Maybe a Roman Centurion? One hand, two hand, bastards, rapiers, and cut-and-thrust were all choices men made when conflict loomed. You’ll find what you need for your persona, collection, or reenactment. Made from originals when possible, we’ve captured the little details for authenticity and maybe, more importantly, the function these blades were meant for.
#501836
This exact replica of an original antique weighs only 1 lb, 12 oz, and the blade features an extreme distal taper, enabling it to feel exceptionally lively. A full 5/8" thick at the hilt, and tapers to a super thin 1/64", 1" from the tip. The blade is hand forged from tough 1080 high carbon steel and spring tempered and arrives fully sharpened. The hilt replicates the originals, with a 5/8" wide knuckle guard, steel spine, and contoured, ribbed leather grip. Complete with accurately reproduced steel scabbard.
#501833
This replica two-handed sword is part of the Royal Armouries Collection by Windlass. Two-handed swords of this type were being used increasingly as specialized weapons in the middle and later 15th century, laying the foundations of the massive, sometimes garish two-handed swords of the next century (such as the Swiss Zweihander and the Landsknecht Flamberge). This sword would have been in use during the last years of the Hundred Years War and swords like it were carried throughout the Wars of the Roses and into the early Tudor era.
#501835
This replica one-handed sword is part of the Royal Armouries Collection by Windlass. An unusual single-edged arming sword of the mid-15th century, reputedly to come from the site of the Battle of Castillion, and purchased by the Royal Armouries in 1984. The crossguard quillons end in curled tips to retain an opponent’s blade, the asymmetrical grip is located towards the back edge, and the squat scent stopper pommel makes the short grip comfortable to hold.
#501691
This medieval Crusader sword has a deep fuller on both sides of the high carbon steel blade, which has been pierced with a cross at the ricasso. Also features an engraved guard and inset coin in the pommel. It comes with a matching leather scabbard and belt. Comes factory sharp.
#501531
This Viking knife has a 23" long blade decorated with runes. Leather-wrapped grip and matching brown leather scabbard and two hanging straps. Overall length 29-1/4 inches. Comes factory sharp.
#501510
This hand and half sword can easily accommodate two hands. Large, but amazingly light and well balanced, this high carbon steel sword has a darkened pommel and cross guard. Arrives sharpened from the factory.
#501471
The pierced forward plates of this sword's hilt depict birds among foliage, the slender bars of the guard have an upward loop to catch an opponent’s blade and the heavy pommel allows for a balanced feel. The blade is etched on both sides of the ricasso CHRISTUS IMPERAT.
#501430
This Roman Gladius has a hand forged high carbon steel blade and comes factory sharp. Antiqued parts are solid wood with metal accents. Baldric & scabbard included. Overall 28 inches.
Top Customer Reviews
Review of: Windlass British 1796 Pattern Light Cavalry Saber w/ Steel Scabbard
Blade is well heat-treated and decently sharpened. The scabbard fits well. Yes, there's wavyness, but the originals had that, and this isn't a $1000 sword. My only complaint is that they sharpened the back for about a foot from the tip. This is not correct for the pattern.
Reviewed by: J, February 05, 2023
Review of: The Confederate Kit
Super nice for re-enactors. Beautifully etched. Gifted to relative who absolutely loved it.
Reviewed by: Jim, December 24, 2022
Review of: Musketeer Rapier
Nice piece! The problem for me is that I am to small to fit it!! At five feet seven inches with a thirty two inch sleeve it is more blade than I can handle. Still, it is dammed impressive!
Reviewed by: mark, June 24, 2021