Knight's sword
The knight’s sword is the most iconic weapon of the European Middle Ages – a tool of combat, a status symbol and a work of art all in one. Whether you’re looking for a sword suitable for stage combat for your next re-enactment, a decorative piece for the wall, or a training aid for learning historical fencing – here you’ll find an overview to help you make your choice.
What is a knight’s sword? Definition and historical background
The term ‘knight’s sword’ is colloquial and today primarily refers to one-handed sword types from the European Middle Ages, dating from approximately the 11th to the 15th century. Historically speaking, these are mostly swords of the Oakeshott types X to XV – one-handed straight swords with a double-edged blade, a long crossguard and a pommel as a counterweight.
It is important to distinguish between the two: the long sword (also known as a one-and-a-half-hander or bastard sword) is longer and can be wielded with either one or both hands, whilst the classic knight’s sword is designed purely as a one-handed weapon – intended for use in combination with a shield. The longsword increasingly replaced the one-handed sword during the 14th and 15th centuries, as plate armour increased the need for longer, piercing blades.
Characteristic features of the knight’s sword include the cross-shaped crossguard, a disc pommel or Brazil nut pommel, and a straight, double-edged blade. The cross shape had not only functional value – it was also a religious symbol for the Crusaders and the Knights Templar. Some blades bore engraved names, blessings or the smith’s markings.
Development of the knight’s sword: from the Early Middle Ages to the Late Middle Ages
Early Middle Ages: Roots in the Viking sword
Early medieval and Viking swords form the direct precursor. Wide, one-handed blades with a rounded pommel, designed primarily as a cutting weapon. Sheaths made of wood and leather, with a grip wrapped in organic material.
High Middle Ages: The classic knight’s sword
The High Medieval sword developed into its iconic form: a longer crossguard, a balanced pommel, and a broader cutting blade designed to cut through chainmail and ring armour. Models such as the Sword of Saint Maurice (13th century) are historically documented and serve today as templates for replicas.
Transition: Sharper blades against plate armour
With the advent of stronger plate armour, blade geometry changed: narrower, more pointed blades with a rhomboid cross-section allowed for precise thrusts into the armour’s weak points. Tewkesbury or Shrewsbury-type display swords reflect this development.
Late Middle Ages: Eighteen-inchers and Bastard swords
The late medieval sword evolved into the one-and-a-half-hand sword – more versatile, longer, and capable of being wielded with one or both hands. Historical examples such as the Shrewsbury type (15th century) and the Satzvey sword demonstrate the breadth of this era. The classic knight’s one-handed sword receded into the background.
Weight, dimensions and materials: what defines a knight’s sword
A widespread myth claims that medieval swords were heavy and unwieldy. Historical originals clearly contradict this: a typical knight’s sword weighed between 1.0 and 1.5 kg – significantly less than many assume today. It was not until the 16th century that two-handed swords reached significantly higher weights.
| Feature | Historical / Decorative | Stage combat (SK-B/SK-C) |
|---|---|---|
| Blade length (single-handed) | approx. 70–85 cm | approx. 70–80 cm |
| Total length | approx. 90–105 cm | approx. 90–100 cm |
| Weight | 1.0–1.5 kg | 1.2–1.6 kg |
| Blade material | Carbon steel | Spring steel |
| Guard | Steel or iron | Solid steel |
| Knob | Disc or Brazil nut shape | Disc or Brazil nut shape |
| Handle | Wooden core, leather wrap | Wooden core, leather wrapping |
Spring steel (e.g. EN45) is the material of choice for display swords: flexible enough to absorb blows without breaking. Carbon steel is suitable for decorative swords and training weapons – harder, more visually authentic, but not suitable for hard full-contact use. The pommel acts as a counterweight and has a decisive influence on the weapon’s centre of gravity – a well-balanced sword feels noticeably different in the hand than a cheap imitation.
Stage combat or decoration? How to choose the right knight’s sword
- SK-A: For hard full-contact exhibition combat – thick, flexible spring steel blade, wide crossguard, solid construction. Suitable for re-enactment battles involving direct physical contact.
- SK-B: Medium-intensity exhibition combat – lighter than SK-A, suitable for most re-enactment events and medieval markets. The most common category in the range.
- SK-C: Light exhibition combat and training – for beginners, exhibition fights and light contact. Thinner material, affordable entry-level option.
- Swords are always supplied with a certificate.
- Spring steel, designed for continuous use.
- Carbon steel, hand-forged – visually authentic and rich in detail.
- Ideal as wall decoration, for theatre, film or as a collector’s item.
- Not suitable for stage combat – the blade is not designed to withstand impact.
- Often supplied with a matching leather sword scabbard.
- More affordable entry-level price with a comparable appearance.
- Training sword as a special case: spring-loaded blade, ideal for learning techniques safely without the full risk of combat.
Note on the legal situation: In Germany, the possession of a sword is legal. A ban on carrying swords in public applies in accordance with Section 42a of the Weapons Act (WaffG) – on private property and indoors, carrying is permitted without restriction. At events, the organiser’s house rules apply; the SK classification is not a state-mandated certification requirement, but rather a self-classification established by the re-enactment community.
Overview of knight’s sword types: one-handed, one-and-a-half-handed, cross-knight’s sword
One-handed
The typical knight’s sword of the High Middle Ages – designed to be used in conjunction with a shield. Wide crossguard, balanced pommel, double-edged blade. Available in the range as SK-B, SK-C and decorative swords, e.g. the High Middle Ages single-handed sword or the High Middle Ages knight’s sword with scabbard.
One-and-a-half-handed sword
The most versatile sword type of the Late Middle Ages: can be wielded one- or two-handed. Longer hilt, slimmer blade, greater reach. Models such as the Satzvey sword or the Tewkesbury sword demonstrate the range. Available as a training sword and as an SK-A version in the range.
Crusader sword
Distinguishing feature of the Crusaders and Knights Templar: often with a paw-shaped cross on the pommel or blade, frequently a disc pommel. The Crusader design of the Crusader outfit would be incomplete without this sword. Available in the range as an SK-B version with scabbard and as a decorative piece.
Price ranges: Buy a knight’s sword from entry-level to exhibition combat
Decorative sword made of carbon steel, hand-forged – ideal as a prop, for costumes or wall decoration. Not suitable for stage combat, but visually impressive. Examples: Late Medieval decorative knight’s sword (€42), High Medieval decorative one-handed sword (€67). The Anderthalbhänder training sword (€46) also falls into this category.
SK-B and SK-C swords suitable for exhibition combat, including scabbard – suitable for re-enactment markets and exhibition combat. Examples: High Medieval Crusader sword SK-B (€151), Shrewsbury sword SK-B (€144), Ulfberth SK-B (€134), Crusader disc pommel sword (€126). Manufacturer: Battle Merchant.
SK-A and high-quality SK-B swords based on historical models with leather scabbards – for discerning re-enactors. Examples: Tewkesbury display sword (€160), 13th-century St Maurice SK-B (€151), Satzvey SK-A (€217), Templar SPQR SK-B (€235). Featuring a spring steel blade and meticulous craftsmanship.
Knight’s sword care and accessories
Steel rusts – even high-quality sword blades. Regular oiling with an acid-free blade oil or weapon oil provides lasting protection for the blade. After every use in a display fight, wipe the blade clean and apply a thin layer of oil; when storing the sword in its scabbard, ensure the scabbard is dry, as moisture promotes rust formation.
The leather scabbard should be regularly treated with a suitable leather grease – this keeps the leather supple and prevents it from cracking. You can find suitable care products such as leather dye and leather grease in the shop.
For comfort during reenactments, we recommend a suitable sword belt holder, which keeps the sword secure and accessible on your body. Additional sword accessories are also available – from sword belts to care kits. If you wish to learn or refine techniques, start with a training sword to protect your joints and equipment.
Good to know: Legal information regarding the purchase of swords in Germany
In Germany, owning a sword is entirely legal – swords are not classified as prohibited weapons under the Weapons Act. There is no requirement for registration or a licence for private ownership.
What you should bear in mind: Carrying a sword in public is prohibited (Section 42a of the Weapons Act). This means: Carrying a sword openly or concealed in public is forbidden – on the way to the event, it must be transported in a case or vehicle. On the event grounds themselves, the organiser’s house rules apply; most medieval markets and re-enactment events have clear rules regarding which combat classes (SK-A, SK-B, SK-C) are permitted for which forms of combat.
The SK classification is not a state examination, but an aptitude rating developed by the re-enactment community itself, which is awarded by manufacturers and retailers. It provides guidance on the intended use of the sword. Decorative swords, props, collectibles or training weapons – all of these can be purchased and owned without any special restrictions.
With the right knight’s sword – whether suitable for stage combat, decorative or as a training weapon – you’ll take a big step towards an authentic medieval experience. Browse through our range and find the sword that suits your era, intended use and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
The term ‘knight’s sword’ colloquially refers to one-handed straight swords from the European Middle Ages (approx. 11th–15th centuries) with a crossguard and pommel. The long sword (one-and-a-half-hander or bastard sword) is longer, has an extended hilt and can be wielded with one or both hands. The classic one-handed knight’s sword, on the other hand, was specifically designed to be used in conjunction with a shield.
Hand-forged decorative swords made of carbon steel are available from around €42. Knights’ swords suitable for stage combat in the SK-B class usually cost between €120 and €170; high-quality SK-A swords based on historical models can cost €200–€235 or more. Mass-produced items from the Far East are cheaper, but significantly inferior in terms of workmanship and balance.
Yes, owning a sword is entirely legal in Germany and does not require a licence. However, there is a ban on carrying swords in public under Section 42a of the Weapons Act (WaffG) – meaning a sword must not be carried openly or concealed in public. At events, the organiser’s specific house rules apply.
Historical originals typically weigh between 1.0 and 1.5 kg – significantly less than many people assume. Modern display swords may be slightly heavier due to thicker blades and more robust construction, but they too usually weigh between 1.2 and 1.6 kg. Only two-handed swords and war swords from the 15th/16th centuries reach significantly higher weights.
The SK classification is a suitability rating established by the re-enactment community: SK-A stands for hard full-contact re-enactment combat with direct physical contact, SK-B for medium-contact re-enactment combat as practised at most medieval markets, and SK-C for light re-enactment combat and training. The class indicates the type of combat for which the sword is structurally designed – it is not a statutory testing requirement.