Swords and Glaives

The Sword

The sword is a long straight steel blade, usually sharpened on both sides of the blade: double-edged sword. The sword is fitted into a handle, with a guard. The sword is large unlike the sword, which is shorter. The sword is usually between 60 and 100 cm long. 

A sword is made up of several distinct parts: the blade, the guard which protects the hand of the owner, the handle which was already worked on for ergonomics and grip and the pommel which was generally decorated with a family seal for the nobles. 

The origin of swords can be dated to the second millennium BC, as soon as metalworking began. It was not long before men realized that by marrying metals, they could obtain a stronger alloy. The first swords were therefore made of bronze. At that time, swords were made by casting bronze in molds.

With the discovery of iron in its natural state and its increased resistance, men will gradually replace bronze by this mineral and forge their swords by heating iron.

Blacksmiths who forged quality swords were highly respected in medieval society. Some blacksmiths distinguished themselves and their names can still be seen engraved on mythical swords.

Obviously the quality of a sword was linked to the quality of the metal that made it: a balance had to be found between hardness and flexibility to avoid it breaking or deforming too easily. However, the work done by the blacksmith also contributed greatly to the quality of the forged blade. 

It is difficult to imagine today what the sword represented in the context of the Middle Ages. It is undoubtedly the object of which one was never separated when one was brought to practice an armed task.

At that time, the sword was a very versatile weapon and was one of the most portable blades on a battlefield. It was used for both attack and defense. 

The Glaive

A glaive is a smaller, much shorter sword. The sword is also sharpened on both sides. It is mainly used by Roman legionaries. 

The glaive is a thrusting weapon (it can only be used by striking with the point) and is typically the evolution of the sword with respect to the constraints of the battlefield. 

Indeed, the sword is designed shorter to allow soldiers to strike more quickly. Over time, the sword established its reputation and became known as a formidable weapon on the battlefield. The wounds inflicted by the sword were very important, which is why the use of the sword by legionary armies was feared.

Replicas

Many swords and glaives have become legendary objects. Collectors want to be able to admire replicas of these models. Therefore, Tellknives is pleased to present its catalog of swords and glaives.