The Late 13th Century Great Sword
(Oakeshott Type XIIa)

When seeing original swords of war from the 13th and 14th C., one is always impressed by their powerful presence. A massive size combines with harmonic proportions, lending them a majestic grace.

This visual impact follows through in their handling: a strong authority combined with a smooth control of edge and point. Two major types of these battlefield weapons are classified as Oakeshott type XIIa ad XIIIa. They generally have a blade length of 85-95 cm, when in hand and a half size. Their grips give ample room for two hands.

Despite being rather massive they have such a balance that they could be wielded in one hand, although two-handed use was probably preferred.

Those weapons classified by modern students of arms as Oakeshott type XIIa are recognized by being wide at the base and tapering to a well defined point.

This is a sword for the battlefield but can be used in the fencing techniques of Liechtenauer, although the wide blade does not lend itself too well for half-swording.

These swords will not be sold sharp, unless otherwise requested by the customer (sharpening will be done for an additional 25 EUR). The grip is of stabilized birch, wrapped with black leather.

For swords built specifically for Western Martial Arts training, steel-on-steel sparring, and stage combat see our new Albion Maestro Line.

Specifications
Overall length: 120 cm (47.125")
Blade length: 95 cm (37.125")
Blade width at base: 5.8 cm (2.3125")
CoG: 13.2 cm (5.19")
CoP: 56 cm (23.8")
Weight: 1.65 kg (3 lbs 10 oz)