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Post by dchisenh on Feb 22, 2018 19:39:00 GMT
Well, it's clearly not a messer, a longsword, a rapier, etc... I understand how it isn't historically accurate, but when you have to decide what it looks like the most, I'd have to agree it's a gladius.
I know both Fallen and Rhema can, and have, make better and more historic examples, but I've got to admit, I actually like this version from Condor. I dislike the name-stamp, though, but there's something utilitarian about the look of it I like. I won't be buying it...I might have about $75 worth of like for it, but no where near $175 worth of like!
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 22, 2018 16:02:32 GMT
I have to say, hats off to Ronin. They got my order processed and shipped in less than 24 hours. Yeah, I really didn't have the money but I couldn't pass up that two-handed saber. It was processed and shipped in about 12 hours I think, really fast! I had been eyeing that sword ever since it came out a year or so ago and since KoA finally had better pictures and stats on it, this sale was the last straw.
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 21, 2018 3:46:14 GMT
I find admins original question and concerns very interesting and continue to research when I can. So far, can not find any sword industry sales data. However, I did find that U.S. retail, guns, auto, home and eBay sales are all currently down. Some of these industries sales have been down since at least the last quarter of 2017. Yet, it appears Ronin Katanas current Scratch and Dent Sword sale is going very well. Would be nice to see medieval and fantasy sword quarterly sales reports as far back as possible, from a company that sells both. Most people are waiting for the 'best' deal and are holding out on buying non-essentials until it's at a price that is too good to pass up. The Ronin Katana Scratch and Dent sale is a prime example. They've priced many swords way below what they normally go for and it's a once-a-year event, so there's both a financial and temporal reason to pull the trigger on the purchase. Keep in mind, that's only true for non-essentials folks are already considering buying. Trying to sell something brand new without an established historic 'normal' price doesn't have as much pull on the back of our mind where we can convince ourselves to 'buy the once-in-a-lifetime deal'!
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 19, 2018 2:29:39 GMT
Now THAT is more like it! An excellent sheath, great attention to detail on the blade and really, really nice fantasy flair for the hilt!! Paul, THIS will sell, provided the stats aren't too heavy and the price isn't too high!! I'm liking each of the first round winners more and more as the prototypes come together. Get that fantasy world/website out there, get some hard numbers on stats and price and get some real life reviews out there and this whole thing could take off!
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 18, 2018 19:16:12 GMT
I think it might help the sword sales if we would know what this fantasy project is? Like I said earlier I didn't get too interested about it but it seems a lot has been planned for it. I just thought it was SBG fantasy thread type thing. I personally have 0 intrest of any of the designs in the OP but I could rather donate small amount to SBG to show support. I still have the way of thinking that you should have the fantasy setting first and sword sales will come after that if the setting is good and gets a fanbase. I personally feel having swords first feels bit "forced".
Exactly what I was saying earlier. Also, the winners were chosen by Paul, not voted on. I'm thinking if it was put to a vote, like Blade Runner mentioned, at the start, some different designs would have been chosen and would more accurately reflect purchasing desire. I've said it before, most winners are derivations of currently produced blades. Without the establishment of the fantasy world, paying a premium for these makes no sense.
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 18, 2018 15:37:49 GMT
It would be cool if someone would set up a thread with voting polls, pics and descriptions/specifications of the current first 6 member designed swords AND the 2009 fantasy swords (bastard, standard leaf blade and great sword leaf blade) for a total of 9 swords (9 polls, 9 sets of pics with descriptions/specifications. Put a deadline for poll voting for swords we would actually buy (could vote for multiple swords if liking enough to buy multiple swords) and then see the results. To be honest, that would have been the best way to choose the winners in the first place. It would have likely produced winners that would have been more difficult to produce, but they would be selling better.
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 18, 2018 0:13:09 GMT
Not one of their new models but received my medieval 2-handed saber today. Actually much better than I was expecting. I've been eying that one too, almost pulled the trigger on it when it popped up on KoA. The specs made me think it might be a little on the heavy side. How does it handle?
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 13, 2018 4:57:50 GMT
I thought the same thing as Blade Runner when I saw the finished Vorpal Sword. It's a nice sword, but isn't wide enough at the base to match the original illustration, and (he hit the nail on the head) the Alexandria.
The blue and gold isn't bad, but he's right on the colors too. Black or brown will likely sell best, followed by oxblood/red.
I like the finished design, but for some reason whenever I look at it I can't help but think of the old Windlass Castillon.
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Post by dchisenh on Feb 13, 2018 1:38:27 GMT
Well, I think there's been a lot of good points already raised in this thread, but I'd like to echo a few since they really hit home with me.
I don't think short swords sell as well as larger ones, like others have mentioned; especially so for basic choppers without scabbards. There IS a market for those swords (like someone mentioned, preppers and the like), but these are overpriced for them.
I understand the logistical reason why y'all went with basic-styled short swords that are just variations on already produced models, but without the fantasy world behind them, practically speaking they're not worth it. I'm not trying to be harsh, but when I'm looking at a sword and I have a limited budget, if I'm not emotionally-invested in the fantasy world, the 'standard' model wins every time.
On the exact opposite side of the argument, the Odin's Oar was well targeted and priced, even if that is a small market. It's WAY outside my sword budget, but it hit a good spot for design and name-brand quality (i.e. resale value, if needed). When someone spends that much on a work of art, it's an investment. Bringing in licensed versions of other high-dollar swords would appeal to that same market, but again...it's limited in size so I wouldn't expect many sales.
The general market for swords, like a lot of discretionary spending 'hobby' items, is still slow right now because even though the economy is improving, most folks still don't have the cash to spare. I think the "Walking Dead"/"Game of Thrones" bump given to the sword economy has stalled and isn't providing the new buyers like it used to.
Ironically, that's where I had thought this fantasy world + sword idea would have done well. I remember when it first started, there was a good bit of interest here on the board, with a lot of wild brainstorming and engagement. But, as time went on, I got the impression that Paul had already decided the majority of fantasy world's details and just added a few contest winners ideas on stories after the fact. It became less interactive than I had imagined, so I stepped aside, waiting to see what others would do. I heard so little about it since then, I had forgotten about it until recently. I'm a little shocked that swords are being offered without the establishment of the fantasy world...that's putting the cart before the horse, in my mind.
I'm glad Sev posted some other work in progress pictures, like I told him originally, that Castir is my favorite and I still want to buy one; the only problem is seeing how these first few short swords are priced, I'll likely be unable to afford one.
Going forward, my suggestions would be to 1) get some more real-life reviews with detailed stats out there, 2) get the fantasy world out there more to generate interest in the swords, 3) consider a lower priced non-runic version of the goblin king sword and the other two Scorpion-produced designs marketed towards the prepper community directly though their forums, 4) keep in mind current market when setting prices...while I like the Castir a LOT, if it's $500-600+ without a scabbard and without an established fantasy world, the Ronin Alexandria will be getting my money instead.
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 22, 2018 16:38:56 GMT
I just received the H/T longsword Steven Huerta redid the grip on and he installed a Printed Armory Viscount pommel from LG Martial Arts, it looks and feels AMAZING! I'll be doing a separate review on it and the Kingston Arms XIV he redid (once I finish copper plating it), but until then, you can head over to his Facebook page and scroll down a few posts and see the sword in all it's glory! www.facebook.com/shcustomleatherworks/It's been given a waisted grip, black wrap and kept the original guard and scabbard...it handles incredibly, literally the most comfortable grip I've ever held on a sword! I couldn't put it down, it's fantastic...I can't say enough how impressed I am with his work and thankful for how affordable it was! I was lucky and ended up with a good factory scabbard that didn't scratch the blade, but if you want something really special, I would go with a guard/pommel set from LG and a custom scabbard/grip from Steven in a heartbeat!
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 15, 2018 2:57:51 GMT
I guess I want to elaborate a little more on the subjective opinion thing. For example, there are a few websites out there that call AngelSword the best swordsmith ever. Now I know that simply can't be true, and he seems to be pretty much distrusted in this community. But also, SBG works with DSA-they even advertise their swords on this website. But then I haven't seen any positive reviews concerning the tang and handle strength, and they seem to be unliked by this community in general. There is a lot of conflicting information and I'm struggling with educating myself already in knowing what information to trust as not only accurate but objective. Even if I had a given sword in hand, I think it'd be difficult for me to know what to look for. Not having the sword in hand seems to multiply the problem. Doing your research and asking as many questions as possible is the right way to start, but at the end of the day there's no comparison for actual hands on experience with a sword. I hadn't heard of AngelSword until you mentioned it. I googled the site and only took a 2 minute glance at it, not my cup of tea. DSA had issues back in the day, initially producing some seriously clunky but durable blades, then there were tang issues and they're currently working to rebuild their reputation. Some have written them off completely, others (myself included) are taking a 'wait and see' approach. I'm hoping they'll turn things around because this community needs more options, not less. In general, I'd start by asking: What types of swords do you like the look of the best? Any example in a movie, TV show, video game, book, etc. that really seems to call to you? What is your intention for buying a sword? Do you want it only for display? Will you use it to cut bottles, pool noodles, or mats? Do you want it for home defense? Is this part of a Mad-Max/Walking Dead/Post-Apocalyptic survival kit (meaning something that you hope you'll never have to use, but should be completely reliable if you have to?) Do you want something that is a one-of-a-kind heirloom piece you can pass down for generations? What's your general budget? Are you aware that this hobby is addictive? What often starts out as the search for the 'perfect' sword tends to develop into a larger admiration for varying styles and types of swords, with a growing collection reflecting that. If I were you, I'd try to browse the Kult of Athena website to get an idea of what swords are available in the categories they've already created there and see what jumps out at you. Once you identify a type of sword, do some reading on what folks have posted here about it and feel free to ask away for first-hand experiences. Look at the range of stats on KoA to see what sort of weights/dimensions/point of balance (PoB)/prices are reasonable for this type of sword and take all that into consideration. Don't forget, even if after all that research you end up buying a sword that, for whatever reason, isn't what you had hoped for; you can always sell it here! Especially if it's a well-regarded one that is always in demand (the H/T longsword comes to mind). Good luck on your search and welcome to the addiction...er...hobby!
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 11, 2018 2:27:03 GMT
Sorry you don't like your Kingston XIV, Cearball. I know the feeling when you do your research and finally get a sword that everyone else likes but just doesn't seem all it's cracked up to be once it's in your hand. Maybe the reason you still found that first version available is because someone else returned it because of the fuller or scabbard? No way to know though, just a thought.
I've found that after buying, handling, and then either returning or selling several types of swords over the past few years certain swords 'fit' me better, in both size and use. Some swords are just too big for me, others seem oddly balanced or just 'wrong'. I've had swords that were too heavy and handled like a crowbar and others that were extremely light, but just didn't feel right to me.
For me, my Kingston XIV fits like a glove. When I want to go two-handed, either my H/T longsword or Hanwei Rhinelander feel equally comfortable to me (though when I get my customized grip back on the H/T, that might change!). I am seriously loving my new Kingston sidesword, it's still really new to me but reminds me of my longsword...just really nicely balanced for one handed use!
Anyway, I guess at the end of the day, if the sword doesn't work for you, I say sell it/return it and move on. Keep trying until you find what fits and then buy the best version of it your budget allows!
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 10, 2018 21:49:37 GMT
I just got mine in today and it's excellent!
While I haven't handled the original, this one feels like an authoritative cutter without a doubt! Mine is sharp, but not as sharp as my Kingston Arms XIV, so I'll be touching up the edge a bit. My initial impression is that it feels like a single-handed longsword; very agile, just as willing to cut as thrust.
I haven't been over it with a fine toothed comb or handled it much yet, but it's definitely a keeper and worth waiting for!!!
Oh almost forgot, the handle is extremely comfortable! As much as I liked the looks of the original version, this feels so good in the hand I wouldn't change it at all!
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 9, 2018 16:12:07 GMT
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 9, 2018 4:17:03 GMT
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 9, 2018 2:41:37 GMT
I agree with the other posters that the edge does need some work. I haven't gotten around to touching up the edge on mine yet, since I knew I wanted to get it customized I figured it would be easier to work on with the factory edge. When I get it back, I'll be getting it sharpened up to my standards! I'm not sure how strong the tangs are since I haven't cut with mine yet, just dry handled it since I haven't put a good enough edge on it. I remember reading where someone over in Europe, I think, was sparring with someone else and broke their H/T longsword, I think it had a blunt blade on it. That is the only case I've heard of or read of and I think it was awhile back, so I'd wager the tangs are just fine. And Patty, I was drawn to the blade geometry of the H/T longsword too. I also liked the fullered bastard, but I ended up getting the longsword and I'm really glad I did. I'd get it if I were you and if it's not your thing, I'm sure you can resell it (or return it, depending on where you get it from). I bet you'll keep it though!
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 8, 2018 21:00:36 GMT
I've had mine for a little over a year now and I absolutely love it. I really like the balance and think it handles great. Mine didn't have any scabbard scratching issues from the factory, so it's not an issue with all of them.
I like mine so much it's with Steven Huerta getting a new handle and wrap to go with a new Printed Armory Viscount pommel from LG Martial Arts!
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Post by dchisenh on Jan 3, 2018 3:43:52 GMT
So, I've been waiting for this new Side Sword to come out for a few months and now that it's finally been announced, I'm loving it! I've wanted one of these ever since I missed out when they were being discontinued, I've always regretted that. I almost pulled the trigger on one then but I kept re-reading 'horror stories' about the plastic handle on the original version needing to be replaced, leaving me to miss my opportunity. I've always liked side swords, "military rapiers", "cut and thrust swords", "sword rapiers", or whatever you like to call them. I remember reading the old MRL catalog back in the 90's and wanting one so bad (they had a few back then!), but I was too young and too broke to get one. As luck would have it, by the time I got back into swords and started buying some, Windlass had discontinued them all and they were as rare as hen's teeth. It looks like the two biggest complaints about the original have been corrected this time around. 1) The handle has a wood core and a leather wrap. While I really, really liked the metal wire-work of the original, this should be a more robust option compared to the plastic cored one. 2) After picking the brains of a few folks who have owned or handled the original version, a lack of blade presence in the original was what I heard the most. This version has an additional 2.75" of blade length and a PoB an extra 0.75" further down the blade. It looks like they also increased the handle an extra 1". Taken together, I would imagine this version still retains it's excellent balance with just a little more blade presence. Plus, the longer blade hopefully gives this version more of a 'cutting rapier' feel rather than a 'complex-hilted arming sword' vibe. If anyone else would like to compare the original's specs as listed by KoA, they're here: kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=SH2203Also, for those looking for more pictures of the grip, I would imagine they've stuck to the same design pretty well (based on the preliminary pictures posted), so the extra views from KoA should be helpful. I'm loving the fact this version has a confirmed 5160 blade, I can't remember if the original was ever confirmed as such or if it was Hanwei's ubiquitous 1566. Additionally, while I would imagine this version's release will likely lower the resale price of the originals a tad, I bet they'll still command a higher than average price due to the original metal grip's aesthetics. As soon as I manage to get one in, I'll be on here to let y'all know about it!
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Post by dchisenh on Dec 31, 2017 18:03:57 GMT
That's a shame, I really liked the look of that sword. I hope Sonny and Zach get the bugs worked out. It's reasonably priced for most folks (still a bit beyond my budget though), I'm sure they'll fly off the shelves once they get them fixed.
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Post by dchisenh on Dec 29, 2017 17:10:02 GMT
Really? I'm seeing the Viking spear too..
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