08-29-2011, 07:45 PM
Well, indeed don't buy this sword. It's a waste of money, if you're looking for a roman sword.
As suggested above, Matt Lukes makes wonderful swords, as does Mark Morrow (Canada and USA). In Europe there are several good swordsmiths also, like Robert Wimmers, Paul Binns, Erik Konig, Hephestus, Rvsticus_signifer and others. It's just what do you wanna pay for it, and what do you wanna get. Albion swords are very nicely made, but I regard them quite expensive for a blade that is made by grinding.
As for handles, I think the question has to be asked which period you're interested in. For an early spatha, I would suggest you a whole wooden handle (if you're not folowing one particular example that is), for later ones bone, (mock)ivory and antler will do as well. But then whole handle construction in one material. (see the examples from Aalen, Cologne, etc).
As suggested above, Matt Lukes makes wonderful swords, as does Mark Morrow (Canada and USA). In Europe there are several good swordsmiths also, like Robert Wimmers, Paul Binns, Erik Konig, Hephestus, Rvsticus_signifer and others. It's just what do you wanna pay for it, and what do you wanna get. Albion swords are very nicely made, but I regard them quite expensive for a blade that is made by grinding.
As for handles, I think the question has to be asked which period you're interested in. For an early spatha, I would suggest you a whole wooden handle (if you're not folowing one particular example that is), for later ones bone, (mock)ivory and antler will do as well. But then whole handle construction in one material. (see the examples from Aalen, Cologne, etc).
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Jvrjenivs Peregrinvs Magnvs / FEBRVARIVS
A.K.A. Jurjen Draaisma
CORBVLO and Fectio
ALA I BATAVORUM
Jvrjenivs Peregrinvs Magnvs / FEBRVARIVS
A.K.A. Jurjen Draaisma
CORBVLO and Fectio
ALA I BATAVORUM
