The Hallstatt Culture is the earliest to be identified as associated with Celtic culture, spreading from north of the Alps West into France, Southern Britain and the Iberian Peninsula. The earlier phases of the Hallstatt era fall into the Bronze Age. Swords seem to have been the primary weapon from this period, perhaps indicating that warfare was a relatively small scale affair, possibly between groups of élite warriors. In the latter phases of the Hallstatt era, iron began to replace bronze in the manufacture of weapons and the classic "Celtic longsword" with its leaf-bladed design made its appearance. They also with this style started to add carbon to make a mild steel which was better than the iron. Not as good of grade steel as most of us who either make or have made swords. The Kingdom of Arms version of this Celtic Leaf Blade Sword features a hand hammered 5160 carbon steel leaf blade, full tang, heat treated and tempered for a strong yet flexible blade that will hold a very sharp edge. Included in the Ricasso section the raw forged surface. Exotic hardwood handle, with steel accents. Fully Functional (Battle Ready)! Comes with a wooden sheath wrapped in leather with leather accents.