For some reason I have a feeling this sword may of been lost in a field cause the owner took it off to get naked with a certain lady but the had to run for his life unexpectedly after 😄 🤣
Interestingly, many of the earliest examples of knucklebows in medieval art are shown on falchions. By about 1470 it's not uncommon to see knucklebows on falchions in art.
@@scholagladiatoria That's pretty interesting. I didn't know that since I'm more interested in swords from the late renaissance to the late Victorian era.
@@michaelsmith8028 Well... dussacks and hangers are basically the same thing as a falchion with a knucklebow, and those are pretty prevalent from the late renaissance to the Victorian period.
@@scholagladiatoria These things look all most identical to the earlier examples of southern Chinese hudie dao (Butterfly swords) which probably nicked the knucklebow from Portuguese sailors.
Arming swords and longswords are still probably my favorite, but that has got to be one of the coolest sword replicas I have ever seen. Great job and really great pick on a sword to replicate other than what people typically think of. Edit: in fact, if swords a self defense sidearms ever came back, I think I would want that, it just looks so perfectly functional and dangerous.
I just ordered a Royal Armory #IX144 Hanger from Museum Replica’s here in the United States. I look forward to receiving my 15th Century Hanger. Thank you Matt and everyone involved.
That's been my favourite right from the start. I fell in love with that sword the first time I saw it in Mike Loades' book and I wished then that someone would make a replica. Thank you Matt and all.
Awesome! This fits right into what I've been screaming about recently: other cultures had swords that fit into the messer-like-sword category, but just aren't called that outside of Germany usually. Love the shout out to the saber grip we chatted about on FB :)
This is my favorite of this collection. I had the opportunity to handle the prototypes several weeks ago in the Museum Replicas showroom. They are all excellent swords, but this one just came alive in my hand. It is everything Matt says and more.
@@hosiulun827 They aren't sharpened, apparently as a part of the licensing agreement with the Royal Armoury. The bevel of the edge is very good, and they could easily be sharpened and would be quite good cutters with an appropriate sharpening. From the MRL website: "It is important to note when purchasing a licensed collectible that for legal & liability reasons the licensor may not allow a sharpening service to be performed. This in no way affects the overall value and/or performance of your edged collectible, and unfortunately is not within our power to change. Should you choose to sharpen your edged collectible after sale, the licensor and licensee are not held liable for any damage or injury that may result from its use or handling."
What a beautiful sword! Two observations: 1) the knucklebow looks like it is an adaptation of what was once an aftermarket weld job. Like some common soldiers decided they wanted better hand protection and so went and had crude knucklebows welded to the original. 2) after Matt explains the uses and purpose of this weapon, it having a nagel instead of a full bar makes sense. The nagel on only one side would provide some additional protection without digging into your (possibly unarmored) side as you moved around, much less fell on it! Love these videos Matt!
Many years ago, around 2001, at an early HEMA seminar an instructor who was friends with *Hank Reinhardt but disliked Windlass said "Windlass absolutely knows how to make a good sword but they just don't do it." For years Windlass had that reputation; Hit or miss at best...often clunky. But since then they have generally improved in most aspects. Their battlecry line was a good step up for affordable/functional swords. Now this collaboration with Matt g the Royal Armouries shows that indeed Windlass can certainly make good swords & now they do! *For those who don't know Julius Henry ("Hank") Reinhardt (January 18, 1934 - October 30, 2007) was an American author, editor, science fiction fan, and noted armorer and authority on medieval weaponry. He was also the founder of Atlanta Cutlery & Museum Replicas before selling them to Windlass Steelcrafts in the early 2000s.
@No Body no intention to mislead, but thank you regardless. Yes windlass is g has always been an Indian company. Hank lived in Conyers Georgia. He founded Atlanta Cutlery & Museum Replicas. Museum Replicas in the early days were supplied mostly by Windlass & Del Tin. It was around the time when Del Tin ceased to be a supplier that Hank sold Museum Replicas to Windlass. Today most think Windlass g Museum Replicas are the same, which in some ways they now are. But origionally they were very seperate companies.
This reminds me of my highschool days in marching band. There were a group of us who used to “fence” with drumsticks. It quickly became apparent to me that whoever could incapacitate the hand could win the matches. This makes the knuckle bow a game changer for people who are minimally trained. It’s like a mouthpiece in a street fight. It is truly an equipment advantage.
Been waiting for this one ever since the proto-type was briefly visible in an older vid. And when the blade left the scabbard.... I gasped. Really, REALLY love this one.
Matt - the swords in this series are all absolutely beautiful. Each you have shown has a particular harmony of proportion that makes it sing. Well chosen and well executed. Congratulations!
I literally just got mine today, I've been waiting for like a year for this, so worth it! Very interesting grip, that pommel really wants to lock you in up against the nagle very tight. It's pretty choppy in a hammer grip. I can almost saber grip it, I'm not sure how I feel, but its a very light in the hand when you do hold it that way. Having the exact historical measurements really makes this sword super fascinating. I'm really looking forward to sharpening it up to get a better feel for it. Very subtle.
What a savage beauty of a one hander. I want one now. Great job to everyone involved in the making of it! On a side note, correct me if I am wrong, but I was always told that the false edge should never be sharpened because it among other things acts as a "release" for rapid fire thrusts or stabs. Supposedly, the dull edge of the "release" will not cut into flesh close enough to create a vacuum like suction allowing the blade to be pulled back out of the wound as fast as it went in. I learned this while talking to people about the false edge at the tip of my Ka-Bar fighting knife.
Matt, why not ask Windlass to make a scaled/short 1788 pattern heavy cavalry sword? Would make a wonderful finale to your series and add your personal touch.
I have started using large diameter hollow grinds lately. It's something that you rarely see in modern blades but it makes some of the best cutting blades I have come across. That is an awesome blade. I really like that thing. I might want one.
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 and the subtle change in shape. So much attention went into this blade! Incredible 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 end-ish swords). Fit is VERY good. It rings with only the slightest provocation. Guard is tightly fit, 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 taste but attractive and nicely fitted. 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! And, thank you to the talented craftsman!
@LandersWorkshop I used a number of grits. Starting from file to 800 to 2000... I think... been a minute. I also removed the side lug a bit later. It buffed out flawlessly. Can't tell there ever was a lug. The sword is so much more comfortable without it... for me...
@LandersWorkshop completely. The sword is completely symmetrical. However, I did this knowing it would reduce its resale value. I'm confident I'll never sell it. It suits me very well. I like to cut cut and I found the lug bit into my hand and limited the way I could hold and manipulate the blade... I didn't feel I was loosing anything as many similar historical examples didn’t have a lug or side bar- only a knuckle bow... Arms & Armor made a custom version without a lug or side bar... so I thought, that's what I need.
When the Royal Armories collection was announced, and you started reviewing them, I patiently waited for your review of this sword. This is the most anticipated sword from the collection for me. As someone who regularly does Saber and Broadsword, it's really cool to see a proto version of them from the 1400s
I have been waiting on this for ages. Thank you very much. Wakefield hangers are a particular obsession of mine, as an archer and an Archer. I’ve owned Del Tin’s version for years (which doesn’t have that side guard) and actually love it. I look forward to getting my hands on this one.
I should add that the Del Tin model is larger and heavier as well, but they did a good job getting the blade shape right. It is a complicated blade, more of a slasher than a hacker, and a pretty good stabber. I actually have pierced maille with it, but of course that is modern maille, so not necessarily analogous to the real stuff. I can’t express how excited I am to buy this sword. Having one that’s closer to the artifacts has been a dream of mine for ages. Windlass has never let me down, and it’s incredible that you (my favorite medieval RUclips guru) are so involved with it. Big props to them for the painstaking effort in making this beautiful sword. And big props to you for, well, everything.
German person here. Look for german/ austrian ,Hirschfänger' of 19th/early 20th century. I think, this long single edged hunting knifes are last descendants of ,Langes Messer'. Mostly they are not very long, but there is a photo , showing Wilhelm ll climbing his horse during a hunting event. His ,Hirschfänger' has nearly sword length.
As good as the other swords in this offering look, this one really speaks to me. I love it. The one thing (other than saving up for it) is the tight grip. I have pretty broad palms and I wonder if my hand would fit.
Mine came in last week and I absolutely love it. Might be my new favorite. Put an edge on it the other day and now collecting some bottles and pumpkins for some cutting.
Can the intrusive Royal Armories edging and the Stamping on the other side ( WINDLASS (R), SINCE 1943, MADE IN INDIA) be removed? I wanted to buy two of the swords but changed my mind when I saw the stamping.
Matt, I received my IX144 on Sunday, it has a beautiful blade. It is scary- pointy. ⚔️ Bob Rank Society of American Military Swordsmanship Tampa, FL USA
Really excited by this. I enjoy Messer sparring at my local HEMA club, I've been wanting a new sharp sword and have been thinking about getting a Messer or Falchion, but this has gone straight to the top of my shopping list. This looks like it's got it all, little bit more reach and hand protection than my messer with the same fast and nasty cutting and thrusting. Its beautiful in its own way but unpretentious, a street brawler of a sword, and as historically accurate as you could hope for. Time to start saving.
I love that type of blade profile, i have an ontario "frontiersman" bowie with much the same blade shape, albeit flat ground, that blade shape at the tip does make for a wicked piercer.
That's actually changed my view of what falchions are and how they're used. I'd previously always pictured them as being wide bladed choppers for removing arms and legs, nothing quite so nimble as this.
There is something about these backup swords for archers and other more lightly armored troops that I just love. This one really is a beautifull sword in my eyes. I own a replica of a 15th centuary sword design by famed czech swordmaker Pavel Moc called Archer. There is just something with these that really floats my boat.
That sword seems to be perfectly designed to defeat a gambison or any other type of fabric armor. Since the side guard was broken off I wonder if that break point is just below s swell in the guard? That would explain why it broke where it did & would have also provided some more side protection. If possible the false edge should be sharpened if possible. I don't see any reason a sword like that for a common foot soldier, weapons for lower classed people were not commonly have details that are just for show since they had to rely on it for their lives.
Lao Tzu said "weapons are tools of ill omen." All the same I always feel uncomfortable having them referred to as tools, as though the enemy were something to be worked, like inert matter, rather than fought, in full recognition of the gravity of that reality.
@@nullifye7816 Words are tools as well, and can be employed to wound, or heal the spirit. Just as a blade can cut out a poison from the body, so can it cut the cord of life. Tool, or sidearm, it is meant to convey its utility, or usefulness in its intended purpose. The original purpose was to harm, as this wickedly edged blade is certainly not meant for agriculture. I admire it's beauty, and imagine it's use, as I don't think it's very appropriate for practice bouts. But for cutting practice, I see it doing very well indeed.
I think it would he kewl to do so simple bottle cutting to see how each of these swords do. I know they are not all specialized for cutting but it would still be sweet to see how well they all do.
I fence with both my right and left hand-injury to right shoulder years ago. I figure right handed I get a bit more hand protection, left handed I get a bit of thumb protection.
You mention that similar but slightly different swords could be found in Spain in Italy. Could you point to some examples? I'd love to see what they looked like!
When I am more financially able to commit, I really want to commission a version of this sword with more clearance on the grip and a longer blade with the same shape. Been thinking about it for a long time. This example is a beautiful sidearm though. A good choice and a job well done to yourself and the team behind it.
I would love to see you explain how the degree of curvature on a sabre changes how you use it. In past videos you have had several cavalry sabres (or I think they were cavalry sabres, please correct me if I’m wrong) that had very similar hilt and scabbard designs but with drastically differing curvature to the blades. Designs don’t change that much without a solid reason.
I was going to say... Hypothetically speaking, were it acceptable to carry swords in public again, this would be something that I could see myself carrying around. Not too long. Not to heavy. Not too fancy. Just there, and unobtrusive. However, my budget, space constraints, and location preclude me from ever indulging in the shiny pointy things! In my city, transporting the damn thing anywhere would just be a legal headache waiting to happen!
Very excited to get my hands on one of these in the future! How about a collab with Deepeeka next? Their swords are consistently gorgeous. If you could get them making some correctly made blades for twice the price or so of their current lineup, it could be a total gamechanger in terms of functionality vs. aesthetics
Would be interested in comparison video looking at Messers, falchions, sabers, and these. Seems like all are focussed on unarmored opponents so relatives benefits would be interesting.
Stunning sword. Good choice! It's interesting that in the original, the fuller doesn't stop short of the break in the back, it continues on and forms the false edge. This what you get when you cut sword blades down in length. Because on most of the swords I've seen, if it has a fuller it stops before it gets to the perimeter of the blade. So I wonder if this sword (blade) had a different profile at one time? Maybe with a hatchet point, like a 1796 HCS??? Then someone who really knew how to fight and therefore knew exactly how he wanted his sword to be, got a sword blade and "customised it". Interesting thought. Impossible to know though. Would absolutely love one of these.
Could the original sword have been changed or reworked? Perhaps the blade on the original is so one of a kind because it is? Practice every morning with Mr Easton!!! Thank you Sir!!!!
I'd like to know roughly where the POB is? I really like this kind of common man's sword. I have a landsknecht emporium messer that i think of as the volkswagen of the late middle age swords. 27" blade, 878 grams, and super thin 1.6mm at the tip would probably be a lot of fun to handle and cut with. A "Weapon Dynamics Computer" model of the thing would be nice to see.
That's my favorite sword in this series so far. If only it didn't have the nagel. I'm left handed so I couldn't effectively wear or use a right handed nagel. :-(
Interesting. This falchion is really reminiscent of mid to late-XV century messers in general shape but its features are at the same time very distinctive and different from them. Funny enough it almost looks like a step between a messer and a saber if that makes sense. Particularly the "beaked" style pommel is very reminiscent of certain styles later Eastern European and Turkish sabers. I seriously doubt there is any connection but it certainly made me a little confused for a moment because this falchion looked strangely familiar to me despite the fact that I was certain I see this particular style of falchion for the first time.
Lovely work Matt. This is got to be some of the best looking swords out there. I imagine that you will go o to later period swords with the next batch... I was wondering if you had it in mind to do a gladius as well? Sadly, this type of sword seems to be mostly ignored (with some excptions) by most manufacturers. Cheers!
I absolutely love this design - I’d probably have ordered one already, but alas, as a lefty, that little crossbar on the wrong side would bother me. I don’t suppose that’s something Windlass could customize on a production sword either.
I don't think they're for sale yet but I know Todd has been working on a Wakefield hanger (his version _does_ have the side "knucklebow" rather than just the lug)... Have you had a chance to look at his version? What are your thoughts?
This would have made an excellent model for the Navy to copy for cutlasses, though I'm guessing it wasn't dug up in time for that. How did Wakefield become attached to this type of weapon, by the way?
If I understand correctly the "wakefield hangers" are all swords of this type that were recovered from what was the site of the battle of wakefield (war of the rose's) which in its self is interesting as with it being a civil war conflict gives a degree of certainty to it being an English sword. Thats all by my understanding though, i believe its correct information but im by no means an authority on this.
Hi Matt, love the replicas, but Im disappointed with the windlass website, they seem to be letting you down. The Royal Armouries section is returning no items, I did find the English Two Hander in other categories, but they are not listing a price or availability.
Man that is gorgeous and I’ve been wanting a good hanger. Too bad my only experience with windlass is a D guard bowie that rusts. No matter how many times I get the rust off and oil the blade every time I look at it there’s more rust. I don’t have this issue with any other blades.
It looks absolutely beautiful. Question: Would this be a sword which could be dual wielded? and would you say it should be the primary or secondary blade (or both) and what would you pair it with?
This is my favourite sword out of the 6 but i'm devestated that the price puts it out of my reach. The Museum replicas sword cost far less and based on that price {swopping dollars for pounds } was hoping to be able to put in an order but UK prices are currently out of my reach.
Of this first lot, the falchion is the one for me. QUESTION: Is it possible the original's knuckle bow has been bent to form the join at the pommel? I seem to remember seeing similar examples with a gap between the end of the bow and the pommel, so that the bow hangs straight, like the lowercase letter "h".
That's a lovely sword and your enthusiasm is palpable. I'm not a prospective purchaser but I do have one question: this is the first of the handed swords you have shown, so is it available in a left-handed version?
MRL (USA)www.museumreplicas.com/english-15th-century-falchion
Royal Armouries (UK): shop.royalarmouries.org/collections/windlass-swords/products/royal-armouries-english-15th-century-falchion
Why are the Royal Armouries prices so much higher than Museum Replicas?
For some reason I have a feeling this sword may of been lost in a field cause the owner took it off to get naked with a certain lady but the had to run for his life unexpectedly after 😄 🤣
Just gorgeous.
Are they available sold sharpened in the USA?
This looks fun to do test cutting with.
why is it ~ £150 cheaper to buy from the USA? (even including postage to UK)
Check our LARP version of this Wakefield hanger/messer :-) www.fakesteel.cz/products/hanger-one-handed-sword
I've never seen a falchion with a knucklebow before. It's strangely beautiful.
Interestingly, many of the earliest examples of knucklebows in medieval art are shown on falchions. By about 1470 it's not uncommon to see knucklebows on falchions in art.
@@scholagladiatoria That's pretty interesting. I didn't know that since I'm more interested in swords from the late renaissance to the late Victorian era.
@@michaelsmith8028 Well... dussacks and hangers are basically the same thing as a falchion with a knucklebow, and those are pretty prevalent from the late renaissance to the Victorian period.
@@scholagladiatoria These things look all most identical to the earlier examples of southern Chinese hudie dao (Butterfly swords) which probably nicked the knucklebow from Portuguese sailors.
@@scholagladiatoria it is logical for knucklebows to appear on single edged swords.
Looks good to me. Nice to see windlass finally grasp the concept of distal taper thanks to you.
Arming swords and longswords are still probably my favorite, but that has got to be one of the coolest sword replicas I have ever seen. Great job and really great pick on a sword to replicate other than what people typically think of.
Edit: in fact, if swords a self defense sidearms ever came back, I think I would want that, it just looks so perfectly functional and dangerous.
If you are british, don' t forget the ,Smatchet'.
@@brittakriep2938 I would love to see Matt do more on the Smatchet. And ideally do a proper replica
Amen, brother! That is the post-apocalypse blade one would want.
I just ordered a Royal Armory #IX144 Hanger from Museum Replica’s here in the United States. I look forward to receiving my 15th Century Hanger. Thank you Matt and everyone involved.
That's been my favourite right from the start. I fell in love with that sword the first time I saw it in Mike Loades' book and I wished then that someone would make a replica. Thank you Matt and all.
This is my favorite of the six. Looks really brutal! I love it!
Awesome! This fits right into what I've been screaming about recently: other cultures had swords that fit into the messer-like-sword category, but just aren't called that outside of Germany usually.
Love the shout out to the saber grip we chatted about on FB :)
This is my favorite of this collection. I had the opportunity to handle the prototypes several weeks ago in the Museum Replicas showroom. They are all excellent swords, but this one just came alive in my hand. It is everything Matt says and more.
Are they enough sharp to cut tatami mat or water bottle？
@@hosiulun827 They aren't sharpened, apparently as a part of the licensing agreement with the Royal Armoury. The bevel of the edge is very good, and they could easily be sharpened and would be quite good cutters with an appropriate sharpening. From the MRL website: "It is important to note when purchasing a licensed collectible that for legal & liability reasons the licensor may not allow a sharpening service to be performed. This in no way affects the overall value and/or performance of your edged collectible, and unfortunately is not within our power to change.
Should you choose to sharpen your edged collectible after sale, the licensor and licensee are not held liable for any damage or injury that may result from its use or handling."
Thank you for your reply！
What a beautiful sword! Two observations:
1) the knucklebow looks like it is an adaptation of what was once an aftermarket weld job. Like some common soldiers decided they wanted better hand protection and so went and had crude knucklebows welded to the original.
2) after Matt explains the uses and purpose of this weapon, it having a nagel instead of a full bar makes sense. The nagel on only one side would provide some additional protection without digging into your (possibly unarmored) side as you moved around, much less fell on it!
Love these videos Matt!
Many years ago, around 2001, at an early HEMA seminar an instructor who was friends with *Hank Reinhardt but disliked Windlass said "Windlass absolutely knows how to make a good sword but they just don't do it."
For years Windlass had that reputation; Hit or miss at best...often clunky.
But since then they have generally improved in most aspects. Their battlecry line was a good step up for affordable/functional swords.
Now this collaboration with Matt g the Royal Armouries shows that indeed Windlass can certainly make good swords & now they do!
*For those who don't know Julius Henry ("Hank") Reinhardt (January 18, 1934 - October 30, 2007) was an American author, editor, science fiction fan, and noted armorer and authority on medieval weaponry. He was also the founder of Atlanta Cutlery & Museum Replicas before selling them to Windlass Steelcrafts in the early 2000s.
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hank_Reinhardt
@No Body no intention to mislead, but thank you regardless.
Yes windlass is g has always been an Indian company. Hank lived in Conyers Georgia. He founded Atlanta Cutlery & Museum Replicas. Museum Replicas in the early days were supplied mostly by Windlass & Del Tin. It was around the time when Del Tin ceased to be a supplier that Hank sold Museum Replicas to Windlass.
Today most think Windlass g Museum Replicas are the same, which in some ways they now are. But origionally they were very seperate companies.
Just picked mine up, and it’s easily my new favorite cutting piece, and pairs with a buckler or targe rather well…outstanding piece.
This reminds me of my highschool days in marching band. There were a group of us who used to “fence” with drumsticks. It quickly became apparent to me that whoever could incapacitate the hand could win the matches. This makes the knuckle bow a game changer for people who are minimally trained. It’s like a mouthpiece in a street fight. It is truly an equipment advantage.
What a great looking sword! It should be a very good cutter as well.
Just got mine…it is.
Been waiting for this one ever since the proto-type was briefly visible in an older vid. And when the blade left the scabbard.... I gasped. Really, REALLY love this one.
Matt - the swords in this series are all absolutely beautiful. Each you have shown has a particular harmony of proportion that makes it sing. Well chosen and well executed. Congratulations!
I literally just got mine today, I've been waiting for like a year for this, so worth it!
Very interesting grip, that pommel really wants to lock you in up against the nagle very tight. It's pretty choppy in a hammer grip. I can almost saber grip it, I'm not sure how I feel, but its a very light in the hand when you do hold it that way.
Having the exact historical measurements really makes this sword super fascinating. I'm really looking forward to sharpening it up to get a better feel for it. Very subtle.
I envy you! I saw it listed as weighing just 1 lb? Less than half a kilo. Is it true?
This may be the most intriguing one yet.
Oh my, that is one lovely sword. Single-edged, one-handed short swords are my favorite.
What a savage beauty of a one hander. I want one now. Great job to everyone involved in the making of it! On a side note, correct me if I am wrong, but I was always told that the false edge should never be sharpened because it among other things acts as a "release" for rapid fire thrusts or stabs. Supposedly, the dull edge of the "release" will not cut into flesh close enough to create a vacuum like suction allowing the blade to be pulled back out of the wound as fast as it went in. I learned this while talking to people about the false edge at the tip of my Ka-Bar fighting knife.
I've been waiting for this one! Short swords are my favorite and this one seems like a great blend of cut and thrust. Beautiful!
Matt, why not ask Windlass to make a scaled/short 1788 pattern heavy cavalry sword? Would make a wonderful finale to your series and add your personal touch.
I have started using large diameter hollow grinds lately. It's something that you rarely see in modern blades but it makes some of the best cutting blades I have come across.
That is an awesome blade. I really like that thing. I might want one.
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 and the subtle change in shape. So much attention went into this blade! Incredible 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 end-ish swords).
Fit is VERY good. It rings with only the slightest provocation. Guard is tightly fit, 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 taste but attractive and nicely fitted.
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!
And, thank you to the talented craftsman!
What grade sandpaper did you use? 500 grit?
@LandersWorkshop I used a number of grits. Starting from file to 800 to 2000... I think... been a minute. I also removed the side lug a bit later. It buffed out flawlessly. Can't tell there ever was a lug. The sword is so much more comfortable without it... for me...
@@1799to1815 Thanks, did you remove the lug competely? Or just take the sharpness off it?!
@LandersWorkshop completely. The sword is completely symmetrical. However, I did this knowing it would reduce its resale value. I'm confident I'll never sell it. It suits me very well. I like to cut cut and I found the lug bit into my hand and limited the way I could hold and manipulate the blade... I didn't feel I was loosing anything as many similar historical examples didn’t have a lug or side bar- only a knuckle bow... Arms & Armor made a custom version without a lug or side bar... so I thought, that's what I need.
What a beauty! I can see why you chose each of these swords.
Really enjoying seeing all these new swords, thank you.
Man, I wish I could afford this sword and the rest from your collab with Windlass and Royal Armouries! Absolute beauty of a sword!
The Wakefield Hangers would be an awesome name for a garage band.
When the Royal Armories collection was announced, and you started reviewing them, I patiently waited for your review of this sword. This is the most anticipated sword from the collection for me. As someone who regularly does Saber and Broadsword, it's really cool to see a proto version of them from the 1400s
I have been waiting on this for ages. Thank you very much. Wakefield hangers are a particular obsession of mine, as an archer and an Archer.
I’ve owned Del Tin’s version for years (which doesn’t have that side guard) and actually love it. I look forward to getting my hands on this one.
I should add that the Del Tin model is larger and heavier as well, but they did a good job getting the blade shape right. It is a complicated blade, more of a slasher than a hacker, and a pretty good stabber. I actually have pierced maille with it, but of course that is modern maille, so not necessarily analogous to the real stuff.
I can’t express how excited I am to buy this sword. Having one that’s closer to the artifacts has been a dream of mine for ages. Windlass has never let me down, and it’s incredible that you (my favorite medieval RUclips guru) are so involved with it. Big props to them for the painstaking effort in making this beautiful sword.
And big props to you for, well, everything.
What a thing if beauty... one of those rare weapons that basically tells you how to use it.
That looks brilliant. Great job, Matt.
What a beautiful sword! I'm impressed.
despite its late medieval origin it will make even more sense through out an early modern/ industrial revolution era context.
German person here. Look for german/ austrian ,Hirschfänger' of 19th/early 20th century. I think, this long single edged hunting knifes are last descendants of ,Langes Messer'. Mostly they are not very long, but there is a photo , showing Wilhelm ll climbing his horse during a hunting event. His ,Hirschfänger' has nearly sword length.
As good as the other swords in this offering look, this one really speaks to me. I love it. The one thing (other than saving up for it) is the tight grip. I have pretty broad palms and I wonder if my hand would fit.
Light, simple in effect, but well made and would be comfortable to wear as a daily or dress sword.
Mine came in last week and I absolutely love it. Might be my new favorite. Put an edge on it the other day and now collecting some bottles and pumpkins for some cutting.
Can the intrusive Royal Armories edging and the Stamping on the other side ( WINDLASS (R), SINCE 1943, MADE IN INDIA) be removed? I wanted to buy two of the swords but changed my mind when I saw the stamping.
@@mementomori4972 yes since it's just a surface electro etch.
The "made in India..." stamping can not be removed.
I absolutely love that blade.
I find these sort of swords fascinating
Matt,
I received my IX144 on Sunday, it has a beautiful blade. It is scary- pointy. ⚔️
Bob Rank
Society of American Military Swordsmanship
Tampa, FL USA
I adore this one. Would love to get one when the pocket money allows!
Really excited by this. I enjoy Messer sparring at my local HEMA club, I've been wanting a new sharp sword and have been thinking about getting a Messer or Falchion, but this has gone straight to the top of my shopping list. This looks like it's got it all, little bit more reach and hand protection than my messer with the same fast and nasty cutting and thrusting. Its beautiful in its own way but unpretentious, a street brawler of a sword, and as historically accurate as you could hope for. Time to start saving.
I love that type of blade profile, i have an ontario "frontiersman" bowie with much the same blade shape, albeit flat ground, that blade shape at the tip does make for a wicked piercer.
That looks the best of the bunch so far.
I'm salty we don't see blades of this type more often this sword is gorgeous!!
My favourite of the lot - I love a falchion!
Royal armories sword IX 155 is the most beautiful sword I’ve ever seen. I’d love an accurate replica
I still have one of these but mine is blunted for use in combat with a buckler as you said as a self defence side arm for a bowman
That's actually changed my view of what falchions are and how they're used. I'd previously always pictured them as being wide bladed choppers for removing arms and legs, nothing quite so nimble as this.
Even broader bladed ones are light. Think of them as a medieval machete
They were no more heavy choppers than arming swords, and at the lighter end, they were sword-sized razors.
@@sawyere2496 Machetes also chop, i didn't say they were heavy.
@@NevisYsbryd Again, i didn't say anything about them being heavy
I have never really liked falchions or messers. But that thing... that is just BEAUTIFUL and I want it 😭.
Absolutely in love with this one. But as a lefty... I'm now sure how comfortable it will be with that nagel...
In old days the craftsmen produced, what the customers wanted.
There is something about these backup swords for archers and other more lightly armored troops that I just love. This one really is a beautifull sword in my eyes.
I own a replica of a 15th centuary sword design by famed czech swordmaker Pavel Moc called Archer. There is just something with these that really floats my boat.
That sword seems to be perfectly designed to defeat a gambison or any other type of fabric armor. Since the side guard was broken off I wonder if that break point is just below s swell in the guard? That would explain why it broke where it did & would have also provided some more side protection. If possible the false edge should be sharpened if possible. I don't see any reason a sword like that for a common foot soldier, weapons for lower classed people were not commonly have details that are just for show since they had to rely on it for their lives.
Matt
Are there Sabres or transitional’s in the works ?
By the way absolutely BRAVO my guy .
That sword looks absolutely beautiful.
Looks fantastic, my favourite out of the range
"matching bronze chape" - I don't get it, there is no bronze on the sword. Did the original sword come with a bronze chape?
Hundreds of years from now this sword shall be antique and someone like yourself will be reviewing it and its history. 😮
I've been waiting for the video on this one, saw it on the website, love it, bought it.
This sword makes an immediate impression, it looks to be an extremely effective and efficient tool, and it should come with a buckler in the box.
Lao Tzu said "weapons are tools of ill omen." All the same I always feel uncomfortable having them referred to as tools, as though the enemy were something to be worked, like inert matter, rather than fought, in full recognition of the gravity of that reality.
@@nullifye7816 Words are tools as well, and can be employed to wound, or heal the spirit. Just as a blade can cut out a poison from the body, so can it cut the cord of life.
Tool, or sidearm, it is meant to convey its utility, or usefulness in its intended purpose.
The original purpose was to harm, as this wickedly edged blade is certainly not meant for agriculture. I admire it's beauty, and imagine it's use, as I don't think it's very appropriate for practice bouts. But for cutting practice, I see it doing very well indeed.
I think it would he kewl to do so simple bottle cutting to see how each of these swords do. I know they are not all specialized for cutting but it would still be sweet to see how well they all do.
A personal favorite! Wish a left-handed model was available 😩
I fence with both my right and left hand-injury to right shoulder years ago. I figure right handed I get a bit more hand protection, left handed I get a bit of thumb protection.
You mention that similar but slightly different swords could be found in Spain in Italy. Could you point to some examples? I'd love to see what they looked like!
She’s a beauty sir! Also looks like it can be worn publicly, it would not be hard to adorn at all!
Excellent craftsmanship. It seems to have good blade geometry. I'm curious to see how well it would perform in various cutting tests.
When I am more financially able to commit, I really want to commission a version of this sword with more clearance on the grip and a longer blade with the same shape. Been thinking about it for a long time. This example is a beautiful sidearm though. A good choice and a job well done to yourself and the team behind it.
I would love to see you explain how the degree of curvature on a sabre changes how you use it. In past videos you have had several cavalry sabres (or I think they were cavalry sabres, please correct me if I’m wrong) that had very similar hilt and scabbard designs but with drastically differing curvature to the blades. Designs don’t change that much without a solid reason.
This reminds me of the "what would modern swords look like IF" video.
This is what I would expect as "a tool sword."
I was going to say... Hypothetically speaking, were it acceptable to carry swords in public again, this would be something that I could see myself carrying around. Not too long. Not to heavy. Not too fancy. Just there, and unobtrusive. However, my budget, space constraints, and location preclude me from ever indulging in the shiny pointy things! In my city, transporting the damn thing anywhere would just be a legal headache waiting to happen!
Absolute beauty .
I must own that! It'll be a hard choice between the single edged arming sword and this amazing Falchion.
Very excited to get my hands on one of these in the future! How about a collab with Deepeeka next? Their swords are consistently gorgeous. If you could get them making some correctly made blades for twice the price or so of their current lineup, it could be a total gamechanger in terms of functionality vs. aesthetics
Would be interested in comparison video looking at Messers, falchions, sabers, and these. Seems like all are focussed on unarmored opponents so relatives benefits would be interesting.
Stunning sword. Good choice! It's interesting that in the original, the fuller doesn't stop short of the break in the back, it continues on and forms the false edge. This what you get when you cut sword blades down in length. Because on most of the swords I've seen, if it has a fuller it stops before it gets to the perimeter of the blade. So I wonder if this sword (blade) had a different profile at one time? Maybe with a hatchet point, like a 1796 HCS??? Then someone who really knew how to fight and therefore knew exactly how he wanted his sword to be, got a sword blade and "customised it". Interesting thought. Impossible to know though.
Would absolutely love one of these.
Could the original sword have been changed or reworked? Perhaps the blade on the original is so one of a kind because it is? Practice every morning with Mr Easton!!! Thank you Sir!!!!
I'd like to know roughly where the POB is? I really like this kind of common man's sword. I have a landsknecht emporium messer that i think of as the volkswagen of the late middle age swords. 27" blade, 878 grams, and super thin 1.6mm at the tip would probably be a lot of fun to handle and cut with. A "Weapon Dynamics Computer" model of the thing would be nice to see.
That's my favorite sword in this series so far. If only it didn't have the nagel. I'm left handed so I couldn't effectively wear or use a right handed nagel. :-(
Larry- I have used this sword left-handed and it’s no big issue-doesn’t get in the way or snag …the lug isn’t too huge
Interesting. This falchion is really reminiscent of mid to late-XV century messers in general shape but its features are at the same time very distinctive and different from them. Funny enough it almost looks like a step between a messer and a saber if that makes sense.
Particularly the "beaked" style pommel is very reminiscent of certain styles later Eastern European and Turkish sabers. I seriously doubt there is any connection but it certainly made me a little confused for a moment because this falchion looked strangely familiar to me despite the fact that I was certain I see this particular style of falchion for the first time.
Ya… really want this one… what a cool blade!
Really hope there's a sidesword in the batch!
All 6 swords in the batch have been revealed. No sidesword this time around.
@@scholagladiatoria What are the other five swords?
Lovely work Matt. This is got to be some of the best looking swords out there. I imagine that you will go o to later period swords with the next batch... I was wondering if you had it in mind to do a gladius as well? Sadly, this type of sword seems to be mostly ignored (with some excptions) by most manufacturers. Cheers!
Nice work
Really good bring this kinda work out
I absolutely love this design - I’d probably have ordered one already, but alas, as a lefty, that little crossbar on the wrong side would bother me. I don’t suppose that’s something Windlass could customize on a production sword either.
I don't think they're for sale yet but I know Todd has been working on a Wakefield hanger (his version _does_ have the side "knucklebow" rather than just the lug)... Have you had a chance to look at his version? What are your thoughts?
Daggummit Matt, I wanna buy this one too!
Lovely blade in all senses
This would have made an excellent model for the Navy to copy for cutlasses, though I'm guessing it wasn't dug up in time for that.
How did Wakefield become attached to this type of weapon, by the way?
If I understand correctly the "wakefield hangers" are all swords of this type that were recovered from what was the site of the battle of wakefield (war of the rose's) which in its self is interesting as with it being a civil war conflict gives a degree of certainty to it being an English sword. Thats all by my understanding though, i believe its correct information but im by no means an authority on this.
It's pretty and I want one, but as a lefty, the first thing I would probably do is cut off that damn lug.
YES! Finally!! And she's beautiful 😍
Will there be another run of later period swords, perhaps some 18th/19th C. sabers, like the 1788 &/or the later CJM 1881 sabers??
That's a beautiful blade.
Hi Matt, love the replicas, but Im disappointed with the windlass website, they seem to be letting you down. The Royal Armouries section is returning no items, I did find the English Two Hander in other categories, but they are not listing a price or availability.
Man that is gorgeous and I’ve been wanting a good hanger. Too bad my only experience with windlass is a D guard bowie that rusts. No matter how many times I get the rust off and oil the blade every time I look at it there’s more rust.
I don’t have this issue with any other blades.
It looks absolutely beautiful. Question: Would this be a sword which could be dual wielded? and would you say it should be the primary or secondary blade (or both) and what would you pair it with?
This is my favourite sword out of the 6 but i'm devestated that the price puts it out of my reach. The Museum replicas sword cost far less and based on that price {swopping dollars for pounds } was hoping to be able to put in an order but UK prices are currently out of my reach.
That blade remains me of a Khyber knife. Gorgeous
I will be ordering one as the next piece for my collection. Really beautiful.
Of this first lot, the falchion is the one for me. QUESTION: Is it possible the original's knuckle bow has been bent to form the join at the pommel? I seem to remember seeing similar examples with a gap between the end of the bow and the pommel, so that the bow hangs straight, like the lowercase letter "h".
Finally!! Been waiting on this one
do you know if there is going to a lefthanded version?
anyone knows why the price was bumped up by 150 quids? seems to be all across the line
That's a lovely sword and your enthusiasm is palpable. I'm not a prospective purchaser but I do have one question: this is the first of the handed swords you have shown, so is it available in a left-handed version?
Isn't it ambidextrous to wield? Aside from wearing it which would dig in a bit it should be fine?