Sword Information Articles

Basic sword info to indepth discussions of elements within the sword industry, all written with the beginner in mind.

All the articles below have been written by a variety of sword industry professionals, experts and well respected members of the sword community.

While currently the number of articles is quite small, over the following months it will be grown into the 'must read' resource for anyone trying to understand the current sword market, and for good quality, well written sword info in general..

ENJOY!

Destructive Sword Tests: Medieval Swords
By Paul Southren

Side by side testing of 4 medieval swords from major brands including the Darksword Armory Black Prince, Hanwei/Tinker Longsword, Valiant Armory Kriegschwert and Darksword Archers Sword against a variety of targets, up to and including steel poles, steel helmets and chain armour!

Production Katana Swords: A discussion
By Marc Ridgeway

Insight into the current 'production' (i.e. non custom made) Katana market. Includes a basic classification system that pigeonholes each segment of the market into various grades.

The Qualities of a 'Good' Euro-style Sword
By Michael 'Tinker' Pearce

An excellent primer by one of the best sword designers and makers of the 21st century, clearly defining what makes a European sword 'good' - and how 'it's a good sword, for the money' doesn't really stack up...

Katana Made in China: A peek behind the bamboo curtain
By Chris Scoggin

An interview conduced by Chris Scoggin from Ronin Katana.com with a Chinese Forge reveals an rare behind the scenes insight into the sword industry in China. Eye opening and very informative.

2005-2010: The Golden Age of Swords
By Paul Southren
5 years worth of sword industry observations on how the sword industry has evolved, which direction it is taking and what the future may hold. Also has the option of adding your own thoughts and observations.

MORE ARTICLES COMING SOON!