Review of: 15th Century Falchion
Such a great representation of a Wakefield hanger, and a huge step up for Windlass in quality. Well worth the higher price. I really enjoy owning this sword.
I did a full video review on YouTube: https://youtu.be/S2FYcVtWUv0
Reviewed by: Kyle, January 02, 2023
Review of: European 14th Century Arming Sword
I would agree that this is slightly overpriced at $600, but MRL has coupons floating around everywhere and sales a few times a year.
Addressing the critical review above, yes this sword doesn't fit modern standards of fit and finish, but it greatly exceeds most historical originals. I find the idiosyncrasies charming, but if you're after an art piece, then perhaps look elsewhere. The sword form is correct where it counts.
The handling and performance however is up there with the best. After sharpening it (took about 20 minutes, the sword comes 85 percent done with a superb primary bevel- I was able to cut a bottle with the factory edge), I've run the sword through many different targets and through quite a bit of drilling- it handles and cuts with the best of them. It's a broad, powerful cutter. Point control is excellent. Expect a war sword.
The CoP is very broad and all vibrational nodes are well placed. The blade geometry is top notch. Being based on an original, the proportions are authentic and probably can pass as a decent wallhanger. Though, the markings on the blade leave quite a bit to be desired and do feel souvenir-ish (which technically this is), but if you're after a hard use sword, it probably won't bother you.
The scabbard is budget plus. The outside of the scabbard looks great, but the core of the scabbard is the same old overweight (but also over built) scabbard you'd get at this price point. It works though.
The presentation and box is premium, but I'd personally wish they'd ship it simpler and pass the savings on. If you're after a gift for someone, though, it'll impress. The included wax is a nice touch.
This sword is a solid buy at retail and a bargain with a discount.
Reviewed by: Leelund, December 28, 2022
Review of: 15th Century Two-Handed Sword
This sword is excellent! The blade is stiff and plays nice in the hands. Unlike many other two-handed swords that I own. Unbeatable value for a sword of this quality! My only complaint I have is it would be hard to make it safe enough to spar with, because it is that good!
Reviewed by: Dirk, December 26, 2022
Review of: European 14th Century Arming Sword
The blade is superb! Well balanced and plays nice in the hand. Edge is blunt but would not take much to put an edge on it. Well worth the price for an excellent sword!
Reviewed by: Dirk, December 26, 2022
Review of: 15th Century Falchion
This sword, Royal Armories I.x144 arrived well packed, I must say the inner box is lovely. The blade is very nice and the sword rings when removed from the wooden scabbard or struck with a knuckle. The grip and leather are well done. The knuckle-bow is not inline with the blade (slightly bent) however a reviewer from BC Canada mentioned that the original’s is also bent so I am fine with that. The peen is not well done and has a very sharp lifted edge. The guard, quillon, & pummel-cap have very sharp edges - in places cutting sharp. The scabbard is well done but the rain flap modification to accommodate the “nail” stud/guard seems an afterthought and causes the rain guard to bulge awkwardly to one side. My sword weighs 702 grams (verified on 3 different scales, I am fine with that lighter weight. Did I mention how lovely the blade is-good show Windlass on the blade. The blade arrived unsharpened, the point is very very sharp, what a lovely blade. Overall, fit quality needs to improve to get an A+ from me. However at this price point I give it an A- I am very happy owning this piece of history and really, it is, most likely, a better sword than was the original at Royal Armories.
Bert Regards,
Bob
Tampa, FL
Reviewed by: Robert, November 21, 2022
Review of: 15th Century Longsword
Great fit and finish. Perfect packaging. And the sword handles great. Over all very please 5/5.
Reviewed by: luis, November 14, 2022
Review of: 15th Century Falchion
Love this sword. I originally got the Royal Armouries backsword. It too was lovely, but I was looking for something a bit more nimble and fun. I wanted something handy to swing around with grace and ease- and cut light targets with. This IS it! The exchange process was flawless! Thanks MRL.
The bade is the highlight. So well formed. Love the hollow grind the needle-sharp point. The edge geometry is the best I've seen. This will not need much to bring it to slicing capacity.
I love how compact the grip is. It feels like a proper sword in the hand (comparing it to antique sabers and higher endish swords).
Fit is VERY good. It rings with only the slightest provocation. Guard is fit tightly, so far no hint of rattle. Scabbard is quite nice. Much improved from typical windlass. Nice smell and texture. Fits very snug, no hint of rattle. Draws with ease. Bronze chape is a BIT bulky for my tast but nicely done.
Finish: blade superb! Better than expected. Can tell its handmade (which I love, not a fan of machined 'perfect' lines, doesn't look right for historical objects IMO). Some small tool marks around peen and lug, again I like these small imperfections, feels organic/authentic.
Only complaint is pummel, lug and guard edges were way too sharp. The butt of the pommel could have cut skin. For the price this bugged me... I took a file, light sand paper and 30 minutes to CAREFULLY soften edges. Now it feels like a satin pillow in my hand. Visually, no one would not be able to see the difference after my touch-up...
All in all, YES! This is easily the favorite in my collection.
Reviewed by: Alex, October 29, 2022
Review of: 15th Century Longsword
The sword is everything Matt’s review of it claims.
The fit and finish and features plus scabbard inclusion by themselves make the price point an unbeatable value, but add to that the fact that it is a 1:1 replica of a famously beautiful historical sword right down to the weapon dynamics, and you have a collectors item.
I am glad I bought it while it’s available. Do it.
Reviewed by: Ian, October 27, 2022
Review of: 15th Century Longsword
The sword is everything Matt’s review of it claims.
The fit and finish and features plus scabbard inclusion by themselves make the price point an unbeatable value, but add to that the fact that it is a 1:1 replica of a famously beautiful historical sword right down to the weapon dynamics, and you have a collectors item.
I am glad I bought it while it’s available. Do it.
Reviewed by: Ian, October 27, 2022
Review of: 15th Century Longsword
When Matt Easton reviewed this sword I was instantly smitten. I was about to buy another sword but put that purchase on hold to get this one. I was nervous, $700 is a lot for a Windlass sword and I like sharp swords, not blunt ones. I took the plunge, ordered it, and hoped for the best. When the package was delivered I was instantly worried, it was heavy as heck. Swords should be light and nimble not bricks. As I unpacked it my concerns were proven to be unfounded, the box the sword is packaged in is the heaviest duty cardboard box I have ever seen, the lid to the box weights more than the sword does!.
Inside was a wonderfully light and nimble sword. Easily handled with one hand and a dream with two. The quality of this sword is amazing, straight lines, minimal waves in the blade finish and while not sharp it is not blunt. More like the final sharpening needs to be done and minimal material would be removed to get it to sharp. To say I am pleased is an understatement. I'll be ordering the 14th Century Arming Sword soon! Kudos to Matt Easton, Windlass and The Royal Armories, they hit this one out of the park.
Reviewed by: Tim, October 22, 2022