Fabri Armorum - Highland Baskethilted Broadsword
Jun 6, 2019 13:30:56 GMT
Post by Dalin Caulder on Jun 6, 2019 13:30:56 GMT
Introduction
I bought it second hand off a fellow in one of the Highland broadsword facebook groups I am with. It looked great, and I was looking to add a later period (19th century) broadsword to my collection.
Historical overview
Initial Impressions
Unpacking it it looked nearly brand new. no tarnishes or knicks from usage. The sword was bulky. I knew it was going to be heavier then the Schiavona (see my review on Armour Class Schiavona) but was not sure how much heavier .8lbs was going to feel. The blade is quite flexy towards the end. I had read Fabri Armorum were known more for overbuilt swords and assumed that meant the blade would be more stiff.
Statistics
Blade Length: 32 1/3"
Handle Length: 5"
Overall Length: 37 1/3"
Guard Width: 4"
POB (Point of Balance): 2.75" infront of basket
COP (Center of Percussion):
Weight:3.8lbs
Components
The Blade
1"1/4" width at the basket narrows to 1" towards the last 1/3 (cutting) portion of the blade.
Wood wrapped in leather
The Guard
The guard is a large basket. very sturdy (also where most of the weight of the sword is centered.
The Pommel
Button style that is common with 19th century broadswords
The Scabbard
good leather Scabbard
Handling Characteristics
So this is quite a bit heavier then a historical broadsword of this type. Historically it is supposed to be about 3lbs, this is over weighted for HEMA purposes. Other then being heavy in the basket the sword handles quite well.
Conclusions
I looked up the steel they use it is the standard czech steel that is a little more flexi and slightly less Hardened then say 5160 steel.
Overall a good sword for the money I payed.
Pros
Cons
The Bottom Line
A little heavy for HEMA/SCA purposes, but usable. As a cutter if sharpened it would be fine for cutting I suppose.
I bought it second hand off a fellow in one of the Highland broadsword facebook groups I am with. It looked great, and I was looking to add a later period (19th century) broadsword to my collection.
Historical overview
This is a early 19th century broadsword replica. It is loosely based off the original. The sword is made for HEMA and re-enactment as it is blunt and quite heavy. Built more for solidity rather then practical/historical use.
Initial Impressions
Unpacking it it looked nearly brand new. no tarnishes or knicks from usage. The sword was bulky. I knew it was going to be heavier then the Schiavona (see my review on Armour Class Schiavona) but was not sure how much heavier .8lbs was going to feel. The blade is quite flexy towards the end. I had read Fabri Armorum were known more for overbuilt swords and assumed that meant the blade would be more stiff.
Statistics
Blade Length: 32 1/3"
Handle Length: 5"
Overall Length: 37 1/3"
Guard Width: 4"
POB (Point of Balance): 2.75" infront of basket
COP (Center of Percussion):
Weight:3.8lbs
Components
The Blade
1"1/4" width at the basket narrows to 1" towards the last 1/3 (cutting) portion of the blade.
The Handle
The Guard
The guard is a large basket. very sturdy (also where most of the weight of the sword is centered.
The Pommel
Button style that is common with 19th century broadswords
The Scabbard
good leather Scabbard
Handling Characteristics
So this is quite a bit heavier then a historical broadsword of this type. Historically it is supposed to be about 3lbs, this is over weighted for HEMA purposes. Other then being heavy in the basket the sword handles quite well.
I looked up the steel they use it is the standard czech steel that is a little more flexi and slightly less Hardened then say 5160 steel.
Overall a good sword for the money I payed.
Pros
A descent leather grip
Good flex on the sword
Cons
Beefy Basket (Weight)
Blade may need more regular maintenance to keep it smooth
The Bottom Line
A little heavy for HEMA/SCA purposes, but usable. As a cutter if sharpened it would be fine for cutting I suppose.