Bastard Sword

The Bastard Sword by Kingston Arms brings back a proven medieval sword design with cleaner fittings and refinements that give this established model a fresh appearance. At more than four feet overall, its long 1566 steel blade, extended leather grip and substantial proportions capture the unmistakable presence of a European hand and a half sword. An antiqued finish across the guard and pommel gives the sword a convincing aged character that suits historical collections without hiding the crisp lines of the updated furniture.

The bastard sword occupied the ground between dedicated one handed swords and larger two handed designs. Its longer grip provided room for a second hand when greater leverage was wanted, while retaining proportions that distinguished it from the much larger swords that followed during the Renaissance. Swords of this general hand and a half form became an important part of late medieval European sword development. The name itself reflects the difficulty of placing the design neatly into either the traditional one handed or two handed category.

This sharp version features a 38 3/4 inch 1566 steel blade paired with a peened pommel and leather wrapped grip. The retooled guard and pommel maintain the character of the earlier design while presenting sharper, cleaner details. At 3 pounds 15 ounces with a point of balance approximately 5.5 inches from the guard, it has the substantial feel expected from a full sized bastard sword. The included lacquered wood scabbard is completed with matching patinated steel fittings, carrying the antiqued appearance through the entire piece. For collectors looking for a large, traditional European sword with a sharp blade and understated historical styling, this Kingston Arms Bastard Sword remains an impressive addition to a medieval collection.