Valiant Armoury Atrim Custom Long Sword
Aug 26, 2009 16:33:26 GMT
Post by Deleted on Aug 26, 2009 16:33:26 GMT
Review of Valiant Armoury Atrim Custom Long Sword - Royal Blue
By
Kristie Clausen
By
Kristie Clausen
Introduction
This is the second of the new Valiant Armoury swords that I’ve bought, the other being the Bristol. I jumped on the chance to get this one because I had always wanted a sword with an “s” guard in my collection. I was also enticed by the blue grip, since all of the other colored grips in my collection are in oxblood and I thought this would be a nice change. Also, this is the now the only one in my collection with a plain wheel pommel, other than my Sovereign which has a different shape because of the protruding pommel nut and the recessed circle on the sides.
I saw this sword while casually browsing through KOA and ordered it after little consideration on Friday, receiving it on Monday. This sword, for 299.95 including scabbard was a deal I could not pass up.
Historical overview
I’m not aware that this sword is based on any historical longsword. I’d venture to guess that it would match up pretty closely to any number of the them, except perhaps for the color of the leather.
Initial Impressions
Unpacking it and taking it in hand I at first thought it was a little heavier than I would’ve liked but at the same time expected it since it is truly not an Angus Trim blade but only one designed by him.
It was at about this point that it occurred to me to do a direct comparison with an actual Atrim blade. The AT 1509 is similar enough that I thought it would make a worthy comparison. The fittings are very similar but the blades are more obviously different, especially seen at the tips. The cross sections are of two different types: the AT is flattened, and th VA has a smooth convex shape.
Statistics
AT 1509:
Ov: 45 ¼
Blade: 34
POB: 4
Weight: 2lb. 8oz.
VA Long Sword:
Ov: 45 ¼
Blade: 36
POB: 6 ¼
Weight: 2lb. 8oz.
Being the same weight, it was surprised that the difference in the POB was apparently the reason for the difference in handling I at first noticed. More on that to follow…
Components
The Blade
Obviously handmade, with some telltale hammer marks, which was to be expected. One thing I noticed about these new VA swords in a difference in color on different parts of the blades. I am curious whether this has something to do with the heat treat? The metal is definitely not as sleek looking as on more expensive blades such as Atrims and Albions, probably due to the fact that their blades are ground into their shapes instead of being hammered. The same inconsistencies can be seen in the fuller, but they also were expected. It has been well sharpened, without a secondary bevel. The only problem with the blade is that the tip of this particular one has been damaged. It does not quite come to a point and there is a very slight bit of jagged metal that can be seen there where it has broken off or perhaps not been shaped properly in the first place. I figure it can be fixed easily enough with a little file work.
The Handle
Nice, cord wrapped grip. I like the fact that the die is uneven, so that some spots are darker. It gives it a nice look but I couldn’t accurately photograph it. The seams on the new VA swords are uneven from what I have seen, so I expected that also, and that is what I got. At least they are smooth, though.
The Guard
I love the guard on this sword. I has a few flaws in the metal, possibly something to do with the casting, but it is hardly noticeable. This is a slight “s” shape and I don’t know if a more pronounced one would have been quite as attractive. Another nice part of its design is that it is slightly wider toward the tips.
The Pommel
The pommel is nice a smooth, very inviting to grip. The recessed nut is well done, as well.
The Scabbard
The scabbard is dyed the nice dark blue to match the handle. Though it does not have reinforced pieces on the tip and throat, it is a nice scabbard, even when compared with the one I got for my 1509. It has a wood core, for one, and the leather is nice and smooth. Also, the dye job on the AT scabbard is much poorer, and the tan leather can easily be seen in many places, though it has hardly been used. Though the 1509 scabbard cost me 100 dollars extra, the VA scabbard was included in the price. I am much more impressed with the VA scabbard. Another plus with this scabbard is that the blade can be inserted and the scabbard turned upside down and shaken without the sword falling out.
Handling Characteristics
Though I had mentioned it being a bit heavy earlier, it really isn’t. It is easily wielded one handed or two, even for my slight 5’7” 120 lb. size. It is easy to move through forms and cuts, and the sword moves between them with little effort. Yes, the AT 1509 is more fluid by comparison, but the difference is basically a subtle one.
Test Cutting
I cut a couple of gallon milk jugs, one 2 liter soda bottle, and a few 8 oz. water bottles. I tried both two handed and one handed cuts on all of them. It was easier to cut with two, but I was impressed with what the sword could do to the targets with just a little added force to a one handed cut. The milk jugs were cut almost like they weren’t there and the hard plastic of the bottles, thick as it was, was no problem for the blade, either. This sword proved to be very sharp, and easily guided into accurate cuts. This test cutting really proved to me that this is a very good sword and I am definitely impressed with both its looks and it performance.
Conclusions
As an overall package, this sword is wonderful. It is well designed and is a good performer. I expected the level of quality. It’s a good looking sword without being perfect. The only thing I wouldn’t mind is it feeling a little lighter and more responsive, but it’s really not bad. I’ve just been spoiled by being able to own higher end swords, too. I would (and probably will) buy from Valiant Armoury in the future, and KOA has long been and will continue to be my favorite vendor. I feel I’ve made a good purchase in this sword.
Pros
- beautiful blue leather grip
- fittings that made it an attractive sword
- excellently sharp blade for cutting
- very nice scabbard (in matching blue)
Cons
- slightly tip heavy
- slight wear on grip in one spot (not pictured)
The Bottom Line
I would easily recommend this sword, both the anyone who enjoys a nice looking piece, and to anyone who is looking for a sword that will perform well in handling and cutting.
There is a lot of value for the price.