'Practical' series Austrian longsword (fourth generation)
Measurements
This is actually generation 4.5 of the Paul Chen / Hanwei Practical series Austrian longswords. The
fourth generation started in early 2008. They were extremely light, around 2 lb 9 oz, with hollow
pommels and super-flexible blades - rather *too* light and flexible for re-enactors and sword
students who were used to the third generation blades. Paul Chen / Hanwei heard our protests, and
changed the blade temper so that while the swords are still flexible for safety, they're not as
whippy/floppy as the first production runs. The pommels have also been improved - they are now
solid rather than hollow, resulting in better blade balance and durability. The triple-fullered
blade still features rounded edges and a more rounded tip than in the
previous generations, making the sword much more responsive and safer in the full-contact use for
which it was designed. There's a reason why the practical series swords are some of the best
sellers here at TherionArms!
This Austrian longsword (commonly called a hand-and-a-half or bastard sword) is replicated from an original attributed to King Albrecht II of Austria. Classically simple in design with a flattened diamond-section blade and cruciform hilt, the original dates from the early part of the 15th century.
The Paul Chen/Hanwei 'practical' Austrian longsword is tailored to the needs of the re-enactor. Featuring authentic hilt styling with fully tempered rebated and non-pointed blades, these swords are made to withstand rugged use while providing the level of safety required by many of today's re-enactment societies. The blade is fullered for balance and has a rebated edge and a rounded tip. Includes a wood-grained fiberglass resin scabbard with suspension hangers and steel fittings.
You can compare the fourth generation sword with the older third generation practical series longsword.
length: 44"
blade: 34 3/8"
blade width: 1 3/4" at base
blade width: 5/8" at 2" from the tip
grip and pommel: 9 1/8"
guard: 7 5/16"
balance point: 3" from guard
weight (sword): 3 lb 5.2 oz
weight (sword & scabbard): 3 lb 13.6 oz
