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Crossguards

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CalebChow
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Crossguards

Postby CalebChow » Thu Sep 18, 2008 6:54 pm

Quick question...

For longswords, how short and how long do the crossguards go?

Is there any particular reason for varying lengths (if they vary at all)?

Thanks!
"...But beware the Juggler, to whom the unseemliest losses are and who is found everywhere in the world, until all are put away." - Joachim Meyer
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Sam Nankivell
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Re: Crossguards

Postby Sam Nankivell » Thu Sep 18, 2008 10:45 pm

Crossguards do vary quite a bit. I have seen longswords that have crossguards/quillons just large enough to protect a hand (though these were usually attached to more complex hilts). I have also seen longswords that look like someone took the handle and crossguard off a two handed sword and stuck them on to a longsword blade.

I suspect the reason for variation is probably due to the personal preference of the users.
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Jaron Bernstein
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Re: Crossguards

Postby Jaron Bernstein » Fri Sep 19, 2008 5:19 am

CalebChow wrote:Quick question...

For longswords, how short and how long do the crossguards go?

Is there any particular reason for varying lengths (if they vary at all)?

Thanks!


Vadi says to have your cross be as wide as the handle is long for a longsword.
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Brent Lambell
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Postby Brent Lambell » Fri Sep 19, 2008 11:20 am

The size and shape of the cross will affect the balance and weight of the sword. A blade might be forged in Germany and then sent to a customer in Italy who would have the furniture of the weapon tailored to his liking. I imagine your personal style will be a factor as well since some people like the smaller but more maneuverable profile of a small cross and some want the protection of a larger one even if its clumsier.

Every part of the sword was made with a purpose in mind.
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CalebChow
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Postby CalebChow » Sun Sep 21, 2008 8:53 pm

I see...

Hm, would anyone have any pictures of SHORT crossguards on longswords? I'm trying to make a comparison between the Renaissance longsword and the Chinese Han dynasty military sword that was used with 2 hands as well.

I'd *imagine* that if the weapons were of similar proportions the arts and techniques should probably be similar as well...
"...But beware the Juggler, to whom the unseemliest losses are and who is found everywhere in the world, until all are put away." - Joachim Meyer
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Benjamin Smith
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Postby Benjamin Smith » Mon Sep 22, 2008 3:07 pm

Chinese crossguards are almost without exception smaller, think Viking period at most. They are rarely more than an inch or two out on either side. Your average longsword will probably have a cross at least 8" across, 10" to 12" aren't uncommon.

Check out the pics on Seven Stars Trading Co.'s website if you'd like examples of Chinese blades.
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Vance Osterhout
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Postby Vance Osterhout » Tue Sep 23, 2008 7:57 am

CHina history Forum has a lot of information on historical swords.
Other's swords are sharp, Mine alone is dull.

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CalebChow
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Postby CalebChow » Tue Sep 23, 2008 4:36 pm

I've asked on the China History Forum and even on Scott Rodell's forum.

Still awaiting a response, but my search continues.

More of a technique question related to the crossguard, but without a decently long crossguard would all 5 masterstrikes in the German system still basically work as they should?
"...But beware the Juggler, to whom the unseemliest losses are and who is found everywhere in the world, until all are put away." - Joachim Meyer
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Sal Bertucci
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Postby Sal Bertucci » Tue Sep 23, 2008 8:50 pm

I don't think they would, b/c part of the techniques is the fact that they defend you while they are being executed.
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CalebChow
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Postby CalebChow » Tue Sep 23, 2008 10:13 pm

Sal Bertucci wrote:I don't think they would, b/c part of the techniques is the fact that they defend you while they are being executed.


That's what I thought as well.

:x seems like it's almost impossible to find out the art of possibly the earliest 2handed sword is...
"...But beware the Juggler, to whom the unseemliest losses are and who is found everywhere in the world, until all are put away." - Joachim Meyer
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