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Post by vorpal on Jan 30, 2022 15:49:39 GMT
I've been getting into repairing and customizing my swords with pleasing results, so when a very beaten up Albion Landgraf came up for sale on eBay, I thought I would try salvaging it as a functional sword. From the seller's description: This sword was used for choreographed historical martial arts demonstrations, so there are nicks and scratches all up and down the blade. The leather on the handle is chewed up in places and the wood beneath worn in a couple spots from being used with steel gauntlets.
The damage was significant, as depicted below: Despite extensive impact damage, all fittings were rock-solid - a true testament to Albion's craftsmanship. So, at least it had a good starting base to try to salvage a useable sword from the carnage. I didn't want to take off too much metal, so I didn't sand off every blade nick or impact deformation. Regardless, after much metal removal, wood fill, sanding, and finally a grip rewrap, I was able to get a very nice, functional sword. I have dubbed it the " Halfgraf" :-) It now looks more like a fullered Type XVa than a Type XVII. The final weight is 2 lbs 15.7 ounces - only 0.3 ounces off Albion's reference weight for the Landgraf. Despite all the changes, the balance feels surprisingly good. It cuts pool noodles quite well, and can handle tatami too!
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Post by pellius on Jan 30, 2022 16:21:30 GMT
Very nice work. I always enjoy it when used/abused swords are restored or put to new use. Also, it is interesting to see anecdotal evidence that Albion swords are indeed “battle ready.” Thanks for sharing.
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Post by rannh1 on Jan 30, 2022 17:03:54 GMT
What are you saying bud, that looks pristine and how a sword should look Congratulations amazing find and amazing restoration
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stormmaster
Member
I like viking/migration era swords
Posts: 7,647
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Post by stormmaster on Jan 30, 2022 20:59:34 GMT
Wow cool to see this one get a new lease on life, I would of chucked it outside as a garden gnome or something in that state, nicely done
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Post by Sir Thorfinn on Jan 31, 2022 13:48:29 GMT
Nice labor of love! May I ask what you paid for the beat up version?
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Post by neuronic on Jan 31, 2022 13:56:16 GMT
I actually liked that battle worn, serrated look a lot...
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Post by vorpal on Jan 31, 2022 18:55:43 GMT
Nice labor of love! May I ask what you paid for the beat up version? $400 Best Offer
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Post by vorpal on Feb 1, 2022 21:02:00 GMT
Added test cutting video to bottom of the original post
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Post by joe_meadmaker on Feb 2, 2022 3:29:29 GMT
I remember that sword (the ebay listing) popping up in another thread here a little while back. I never would have thought it could be restored to what you've done with it. Fantastic job you've done there, sir!
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Post by vorpal on Feb 2, 2022 3:46:35 GMT
Thank you! It definitely exceeded my expectations and surprised everyone in my local HEMA club as well.
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Post by Kane Shen on Feb 5, 2022 18:50:17 GMT
Quite an amazing fine. Always love Albion's XVII swords and their hexagonal cross section. It's a testament of Albion's heat treatment. Good project!
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Deleted
Deleted Member
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Post by Deleted on Feb 6, 2022 15:53:54 GMT
Well done, sir! A well made sword can endure a lot of punishment and continue to get the job done.
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