Scottish & Celtic Swords

I was not sure what to expect when I picked this up on the deal of the day, but I was pleasantly surprised. It is one of those swords that shows better in person. The blade has authority but the hilt is large enough for a second hand if needed. Everything is right and tight and the double fullers a executed beautifully.

I saw a photo of the sword was copied from.  It was in the National Museum of Antiquities in Scotland and the sword was dated circa 1570.   The Windlass reproduction looks very much like it.  This is a HEAVY sword!  The hilt is so big I can get both of my long slender hands in it, (one on either side).  All of the pieces of the basket are very thick. The blade is well made and substantial.  The etchings on the blade are actually slightly cut into the blade, not just painted on.  I haven't cut anything yet but will once I sharpen it.  I am impressed!  If you get it you may want to check out Youtube's Matt Easton on Scholagladiatoria to learn exercises to strengthen your arm for a one handed sword.

I purchased this as a "Deal of the Day".  I've had my eye on it for quite a while and was delighted to see it come up on sale.  It's stunning.  Feels great in the hand.  Nice weight and balance.  I had it sharpened and am pleased with the blade.  This is an item that now looks to be on the closeout list.  I'd suggest getting it before it's gone.  You won't regret it.

This is probably my favorite basket-hilt sword in my collection. The unique and intricate basket is well made and encloses the complete hand. The blade, although a bit heavy, is thick and sturdy. The wire wrapped ray skin handle looks great and is very tightly assembled. 2 thumbs up!

This beautiful back sword is balanced for the thrust. It has an intricately detailed basket. A real knockout for looks. I found that the basket came too far around so that it hit my wrist on both sides on cutting strokes (admittedly not the main purpose for this sword). I removed the last loop on the bottom of each side of the basket with a Dremel tool and the problem was solved. Not too much to do for a sword of this quality. The basket still looks great, even with the slight modification.

This is a magnificent sword! The basket is large enough to fit my middle size hands when wearing a gauntlet. The basket is also fabulously detailed. Depending on how you count them, there are 30 odd welds in it. Balance is 5" above the basket as it should be and is intended to support cutting rather than thrusting. The etching and engraving are tops!

This sword is impressive. I received this as a Christmas gift. I was and still am blown away.

It greatly exceeded my expectations. I handled the braveheart claymore previously. The leather was a brighter tan color. The blade stock seemed thinner.

This freedom fighter version has a lovely darker leather on the handle and ricasso. The pommel and cross guard also seem antiqued in person. The combined affect is one of gorgeous class.

The sword was sharpened by mrl,  and is a calvary dicing razor. I have not cut with it yet,  but I can update the review if possible once I try it on the pill,  bottles, etc.

It's a heavy sword,  obviously,  and stats list point of balance out at 11 inches. There is historical precedence for this sword,  it's just not historically called a claymore. Point of balance probably should be more around 5 or 6, maybe even 7 inches from crossguard.

11 is a bit far comparing to other examples of this sword. However,  I am able to wield this in one hand. It is more comfortable with two hands.  It excels and I believe was designed by windlass to use one hand on grip and one on the leather wrapped ricasso.

In this fashion you can "half sword" and really make this blade move! This is how I have been practicing forms with it. A horse killing sword when swung from the grip. Half swording in the crush of battle. The balance falls to the handle on the ricasso.

Again,  I can say enough how beautiful this replica is. Tight fitting, well constructed with a good temper. The blade is flexible but plenty rigid.

Windlass has done very well and the details on the cross guard and pommel are exquisite.

I cannot express how impressed I am with this sword. The quality and beauty of this weapon was everything I had hoped for and more. It is well balanced as a combat blade and simply exquisite as a display piece. I purchased it as a gift for my son, sharpened and engraved and has quickly become his most prized possession. I could not be happier with my purchase!

I bought this sword as the deal of the day so the price was fantastic!  The sword itself is fairly nice for the price and has a good feel in the hand.  I wish it was peened but so far I have had zero problems.  

Beautifully constructed!  Quick, sharp and deadly!  This is an outrageously awesome sword.  It literally sings in the hand and moves with the speed of light.  Buy it!!!!