Accessories for swords
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A sword is only as good as the accessories that go with it. The right sword scabbard protects the blade from scratches and moisture, a suitable sword belt ensures safe and comfortable carrying at markets and in camp – and if you look after your sword regularly, it will retain its functionality and appearance for many years to come. Whether you carry an early medieval or Viking sword, a High Medieval piece for re-enactment or a LARP padded weapon – the right accessories make the difference between a complete outfit and half-finished gear.
What constitutes sword accessories – an overview
The range of sword accessories can be broadly divided into four categories: scabbards (protection and transport of the blade), belts and mounts (carrying on the body), fittings (DIY and repairs), and care accessories (preserving value and ensuring functionality). Within these categories, there are both functional accessories – i.e. items that make the sword wearable and ready for use – as well as decorative accessories such as stands and wall mounts for display at home or in the workshop.
The areas of use range from historical re-enactment, through LARP and exhibition combat, to decoration and collecting. Newcomers usually need a suitable scabbard and a sword belt or belt hanger to start with – everything else will fall into place over time. Fittings and individual parts for DIY projects are of more interest to advanced enthusiasts who wish to make a scabbard themselves or upgrade an existing one.
Sword scabbards: function, construction and materials
A sword scabbard is the container for the blade – it protects the cutting edge from damage, prevents the wearer from coming into accidental contact with the sharp side and enables safe transport. The term ‘sheath’ derives from the Old High German ‘skaida’, which means ‘separation’ or ‘separating device’ – the sheath thus literally separates the sharp blade from the outside world.
The classic construction of a historically accurate sword scabbard consists of a wooden core, which holds the blade and maintains its shape, and a leather covering, which combines protection with aesthetic appeal. At the entrance to the scabbard sits the mouthplate (also known as the mouthpiece or guard plate), which reinforces the opening and prevents the leather from being cut when the blade is inserted. The tip is secured by the guard plate. Straps attached to the sides of the scabbard allow it to be fastened to a belt.
In our range, you will find scabbards made from 100% leather, from hardwood, and combinations of both. Full-leather scabbards are more flexible and lighter, whilst hardwood scabbards with a leather covering offer greater dimensional stability and better protect the blade from lateral pressure. Sheaths vary significantly depending on the era and intended use: Viking swords were carried in flat sheaths with elaborate bronze fittings, whilst High Medieval sheaths were often simpler and more functional. Separate requirements apply to LARP padded weapons, as no sharp blade is carried and freedom of movement takes priority.
Sword care: Which oil, how often and what to look out for
Steel blades – whether medieval swords or stage combat weapons – are sensitive to moisture. Without regular care, rust forms, which attacks the surface and can damage the cutting edge on functional blades. Cast-iron blades and untreated forged pieces are particularly susceptible.
The following oils and products have proven effective for sword care:
- Camellia oil: The classic care oil for Japanese blades (katana, tanto). Fine, low-odour, forms a thin protective layer. Also suitable for European steel blades.
- Ballistol: A versatile weapon oil that protects both metal and leather. Biodegradable and skin-friendly – popular in re-enactment and exhibition combat because it also conditions the leather scabbard.
- Mineral-based weapon oil: Affordable, effective, long-lasting. Well-suited for storing collectibles as it does not go rancid.
- Clove oil: A traditional home remedy with a good reputation in the community. It does indeed protect against oxidation, but has a strong smell and is expensive in large quantities. Useful as a supplement, but rather impractical as a primary treatment.
WD-40 is not recommended for sword care. Although the product repels moisture in the short term, it leaves sticky residues, attracts dust and offers no lasting protection against corrosion. For proper care, a suitable weapon oil is the far better choice.
As a rule of thumb: after every use (exhibition fight, market, training), clean the blade with a soft cloth and apply a thin layer of oil. If the sword is simply being stored, a maintenance interval of every two to four weeks is sufficient, depending on the humidity. A care set containing a cloth, oil and polish as a complete solution covers the basic requirements. The leather scabbard should be treated separately with a leather care product to prevent cracks and maintain flexibility.
Sword belt, belt hanger and fittings
The sword belt is not just a practical accessory – it is part of the overall historical picture. A poorly fitting or anachronistic belt stands out at re-enactment events just as much as an incorrect blade. Our range includes sword belts made from brown and black cowhide leather with adjustable straps and buckles – designed for blades, rapiers and broad medieval weapons alike.
We also offer adjustable leather sword holders that allow a single scabbard to be securely fastened to the belt without requiring a full sword belt. For Viking swords, the historically accurate system of belt loops with strap loops is typical: two strap loops on the scabbard allow it to be worn at an angle, making it easier to draw and walk.
Anyone building their own scabbard or repairing a damaged one will find individual fittings made of bronze and brass in our range: mouth plates and end plates for Viking sword scabbards in various designs (plain, with a snake motif, with an antique finish), as well as strap loops featuring dragon and knot patterns. These fittings are suitable both for new construction and for enhancing the appearance of existing scabbards. The material – brass with an antique finish and bronze – corresponds to the historical model and is significantly more durable than modern die-cast zinc alternatives.
Sword stands and wall mounts: Display at home and in the store
The nickel-plated steel sword wall mount is the most affordable solution for wall display. Simple, sturdy, suitable for individual swords or daggers. Ideal for beginners or as an additional mount in a larger collection.
Floor stands made of wood or steel for one to two swords – designed for blade lengths up to 100 cm. Visually appealing, sturdy enough for daily use in the home or storage area. A table mount is a compact option for a desk or display cabinet.
The round wooden sword stand for up to 12 swords is the first choice for collectors. It accommodates swords and daggers alike, saves wall space and looks like a genuine display piece. A helmet stand is also recommended to complete the presentation of a historical outfit.
Sheath types compared: leather sheath, back sheath, LARP sheath
- Classic hip-wearing style, on the left side of the belt
- Belt loops or strap loops for fastening
- Suitable for one-handed and one-and-a-half-handed swords
- Suitable for specific swords (e.g. 11th-century battle sword, Frankish longsword, disc pommel sword, Dybek sword)
- Material: cowhide leather, brown or black
- Back scabbard made of black leather – for two-handed swords and long one-and-a-half-handed swords
- Carries the blade behind the back, drawn over the shoulder
- Restriction: Not consistently documented historically, but widely used in LARP and at markets
- LARP scabbards for padded weapons: lighter construction, often made from sturdy synthetic leather
- Suitable for LARP weapons and display swords
Whether you’re kitting out your first sword or adding to an existing collection – with the right scabbard, a sturdy belt and regular care, your sword will stay in good working order and look great for a long time. Browse our range and find the right accessories for your blade.
Frequently asked questions
A sword scabbard is a container for the blade that protects the cutting edge from damage, prevents the wearer from accidental contact and enables safe transport. Without a scabbard, the blade would quickly develop scratches, nicks and corrosion. For re-enactment and LARP, the scabbard is also an important part of the overall historical look.
The term is derived from the Old High German word ‘skaida’, which means ‘separation’ or ‘separating device’. The scabbard thus literally separates the sharp blade from the outside world, thereby protecting both the weapon and the wearer. The term has remained unchanged in German for centuries.
Camellia oil (traditionally used for Japanese blades, but also suitable for European steels), Ballistol (versatile, skin-friendly, also protects leather) and mineral-based weapon oil (long-lasting, does not go rancid) have all proven effective. WD-40 is expressly not recommended: although it repels moisture in the short term, it leaves sticky residues and offers no lasting rust protection.
After every use – i.e. after a display fight, market event or training session – the blade should be cleaned and lightly oiled. If the sword is simply being stored, a maintenance interval of every two to four weeks is sufficient, depending on the humidity at the storage location. Swords stored in damp rooms should be checked more frequently.
Many scabbards in our range are specifically designed for particular sword models – for example, leather scabbards for the 11th-century battle sword, the Frankish longsword or the one-and-a-half-handersword. The product descriptions list the corresponding item numbers for the swords. If you are unsure, you can contact the team by phone Monday to Friday from 8 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 3 pm.