We have chosen to copy this hand-and-a-half bastard sword from the Tower of London. In spite of an extra long blade, this battle ready sword is amazingly light and fast, weighing just under 3 lbs. This high carbon steel blade is wide enough to produce very strong cuts and is pointed enough to thrust with. With a forged high carbon steel blade, the 8 inch long handle is suitable for one or two hand grips. The handle has a wire-wrapped top section and the bottom is covered with leather, as is the original. Gothic style was the dominant structural and aesthetic mode in Europe for 400 years. The spikes and soaring spires that characterize Gothic architecture are well known, but arms & armour of the period also reflect the vitality of the Gothic approach. This gothic sword was so popular, the German painter and engraver, Albrecht Durer showed it in his portrayals of warriors. The Gothic Bastard is featured in Deadly Duels. This battle ready sword is assembled by Windlass Steelcrafts. Overall-44 inches * Blade-36 inches long, 1 inch wide * Wt.-2 lbs. 13 oz. Consult your copy of "The Medieval Soldier" to see a photo of this hand-and-a-half sword on page 40.