Medieval Swords (potentially MRL revisited)

[Eric Gregory]

Greetings all...

I recently picked up a copy of Tobler's book on German swordsmanship and I must say, it's one of the most nicely done book on the subject that I've seen.

My interest has primarily been rapiers, research, making them, fighting with them, etc. I've been wanting to delve into Medieval stuff a bit more of late, and the book may have provided a bit of impetus for me to do so. This leads into my question(s)...

Where's a good place to snag a decent long sword or hand-and-a-half? I want something that's not going to fall apart on me, but doesn't cost an arm and a leg (pun not intended). Also, how have MRL's pieces been of late? Any improvement, or are they still a bit lack-luster?

Thanks as always...

Eric Gregory

[Shane Smith]

I have had two VERY bad experiences with MRL products.I will NOT be buying more.I have had good luck with my Deltins and my Atrim XIIIa. <img src="/forum/images/icons/wink.gif" alt="" />

[Webmaster]

I've handled two German hand and a half swords here in Houston and been reasonably impressed with the performance. One was straight from the factory and one was John's with the hilt tightened up, but both had very nice balance and a good feel to them, and John hasn't complained about his being whippy. Of course, quality may vary depending on when it was made.

Another one I saw from MRL last year in Atlanta was the " Broadsword with Double Ring Guard ", which was a replica of one on Hank's wall. I believe it was Brian Cox who brought the MRL version, and although it couldn't match the original (truly awesome), most people there seemed to agree that the replica felt pretty good. I seem to remember someone saying that an earlier version of the replica wasn't so good, but that it had been improved since. I think I'd save that one for test cutting, though. It's way too pretty to bang up in sparring.