Picking a longsword?

[Kyle Morgan]

Hey guys. I was hoping you might be able to help with my decision making process for buying my first longsword. I've been focusing on Albion's lineup and like the looks of the Crecy and the Steward, but have no idea how these measure up in handling or in cutting or thrusting ability. Have any of you owned these models or handled them before? If so, I'd appreciate you sharing your thoughts.

[Corey Roberts]

Although I've not personally handled either the Crecy or the Steward, from observation of their profile it would look like the Steward would have a bit more cutting authority than the Crecy, whereas the Crecy would have slightly more point control due to its tighter more narrow point. However, both these swords being pretty broad are going to be more cut-centric than some other models with a more narrow pointed blade profile.

Also depending on your interests you may also wish to know that these particular sword types are from an earlier period than most of the fighting manuals covering longsword fencing. (Look to the type XVIIIb's XVII's and XVa's for swords of the type most of the manuals cover).

Hope that helps.

[Stacy Clifford]

I haven't handled the Steward, but the Crecy is an excellent all-around blade that both cuts and thrusts very well. It's a few inches shorter than a typical longsword, but it handles well and I like it personally. If you don't have a particular blade type you favor (or, like me, favor versatility), it's a very good starter blade from Albion.

[Kyle Morgan]

thanks. I'm leaning towards the crecy, if only because versatility in a weapon is never a bad thing.

[John Young]

I have a Crecy. In doing tipogressions and floroushing with it I've come to really appreciate it's handling. I've also been blessed to handle the Meyer and the Leichtenaur. I've been able to spar with both of those due to gracious members here in ARMA and when funds allow it I will be getting the Leichtenaur.

When I was deciding on which sword to get I was just about to pull the trigger on the Ringneck or Talhoffer. I really wanted the Sempach but funds wouldn't allow it. Then I found the Crecy at Cult of Athena IN STOCK and jumped on it. I knew John Farthing had a Crecy and gave it high regards so with that my decision was made.

After I get a Leichetnaur I still want to get the Sempach. Fish tail pommels rock.