Swords for starters.

by By Frederik Kerling
(Nijmegen - Langenort)

First of all, I would like to point out a large European manufacturer of really good swords.

http://www.kovex-ars.cz/
http://www.die-ritterschmiede.de/ENG_Die-Ritterschmiede/eng_die-ritterschmiede.html

And a personal favourite:
http://www.armorymarek.com/

And naturally many many more.

Overall I would advice to serious sword competitors that ask a lot of their swords and are not afraid of using it to visit the blacksmith themselves. There is a large gain for both. Being part of an experienced fight group, it pays to exchange information with your own favourite blacksmith. Don't just buy a sword if you know what you want. Custom order it.

If you use a sword, don't be afraid to destroy it. If you practice with feders, don't be surprised that you will need a new one each year.

When buying a sword, check the sizes and weight. A hand and a half sword over 2 Kilogram's is too heavy. and below 1200 gram's you might need to question it's strength.

know your sword, and know your techniques. If you start modern fencing with a messer, you will lose. If you messer-fight with a Viking sword, you will use your index finger. But also know what your sword does. Take time to get acquainted with your purchase. It saves lives.

Take good care of the manufacturer, even the good manufacturers sometimes weld on parts of the swords, or will even brass weld the pummel to the blade. This WILL snap, And People WILL get hurt. Don't use them for fighting.

If you want to sharpen up your own sword, remember, it will be lighter. And, remember that if it becomes too hot, the temper will be lost, and it will need to be reforged. mind the grindstones!

Yes industrial steel often is better.

If you think you are good, buy a sharpened sword. Then see how good you really are.

Take account of local legislation.

Swords rust, easily don't be afraid to polish for hanging, or use plenty full of motor oil for fight, stick however to 1 kind of oil only.

The best cure to rust is one cloth, you use over, and over again. The tiny rust particles will create the finest grain you will have ever seen.

Don't ever buy armour on line, unless you have a blacksmith prepared to adjust it on size. If you want something slightly good. You need it custom made. If you want something really good, something where you only need to wear 2 layers of wool under. Save up your money, and do it all right at the first attempt.
exceptions are shields.

That was about it, for first time mistakes.
regards,
Frederik Kerling