[OT] Buying swords

[LordAbyss]

Greetings everyone. I am currently in the process of shopping for a sword (long sword medevil variety) for decoration and possible use in the future. I know a little of what goes into a good sword but am far from an expert.

So... what makes a good sword and also what online shops are there that sell quality swords? I am looking at

http://store.museumreplicas.com

Any suggestions?

 

[Avarice]

Well I'm no expert, but I have read some very nice things about these guys. Check them out: www.armour.com/

 

[Kamard]

Many people I know have had very bad luck with Museum Replicas. Others have pretty decent weapons they bought there.

I would say its about 80/20, siding with "bad".

 

[Shadowdancer]

I have bought several things from Museum Replicas, and have had no problems with any of the swords or daggers, except the price.

Some of the swords, you can find elsewhere for a cheaper price.

 

[Priest]

For seriously good suggestions go to this forum and ask the nice friendly swords guys which sword would be best for you. (I know that there are some really fine Eastern European swords companies that have good swords at level prices.


http://swordforum.com/

 

[Tsyr]

If you don't want to spend too much but still get a halfway decent sword, pick up a Paul Chen "practical knightly sword", I think they are called... on e-bay. If that doesn't show up, search for "paul chen practical" and see what all it brings up.

 

[Kamard]

I have bought several things from Museum Replicas, and have had no problems with any of the swords or daggers, except the price.

Some of the swords, you can find elsewhere for a cheaper price.

See? Don't just listen to me. I personally have never bought a sword or anything, thus, my opinion is based on some grousing old SCA types who came to the larp I played in some years ago. Maybe they were just picky.

 

[Eccles]

I've never done any comparative shopping, but Swords Online have a very good site and selection.

www.swordsonline.com

 

[Blastin]

Swords

Well, I have bought about four weapons from Museaum Replicas and have never had a problem. I have bought cheaper swords from venders at cons and such as well...and compairing the them to the ones I bought from MR you can definatly tell the differance in quality.
One thing not mentioned about the swords so far is the metal type and the hilt. If you are looking for a display sword only, something that will be on a wall for the most part, go with stainless steel. It's easier to care for. also for a display sword the tang, or the metal part of the blade that is the support in the hilt of the sword, is not important.
Now if you plan on actually going out and swinging the sword at stuff and want to cut it, you want carbon steel. It holds an edge much better, but you must keep it oiled or it will rust. You also want to aviod swords with a "rat tail tang", as these have very little blade support in the hilt and could break with use.
Hope that helps.

 

[LordAbyss]

Thanks for the replies guys. I have started to look into the various websites you posted and looking good. While we are on this subject, can anyone suggest anything on shields? I will be looking for one that I can paint on.