Training swords
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Buy training swords: practise sword fighting safely and effectively
Training swords are the most important tool for anyone wishing to practise sword fighting techniques safely and effectively — whether as a beginner in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), a demonstration fighter, or a re-enactor looking to refine their movements. Unlike real blades, training swords are designed to significantly reduce the risk of injury without compromising on realistic handling. This makes them an indispensable companion for any structured sword training — regardless of experience level and fighting style.
What is a training sword — and how does it differ from a real sword?
A training sword — also known as a practice sword — is a specially constructed replica of a sword, designed for the safe learning of combat techniques. The blade is blunt, has no edge and, depending on the model, is made of wood, plastic or unpolished steel. The design is safety-oriented: splinter-free construction, controlled weight and a rounded blade area are the main priorities.
Important to note when purchasing: training swords are not classified as weapons under the German Weapons Act (WaffG). As they are not sharp and are not suitable for attack, they are not subject to any licensing requirements under weapons legislation. They may be legally purchased, owned and used in training.
Training swords must be distinguished from purely decorative swords, which may look impressive but are not designed to withstand stress or impact — and from exhibition swords, which must meet specific requirements regarding weight, balance and surface treatment for use in competition. Training swords, on the other hand, are primarily used for technical training: practising movement sequences, improving posture, and learning fencing techniques based on historical sources.
Typical areas of use include HEMA training, re-enactment rehearsals, preparation for exhibition fights, and the playful learning of sword techniques for children and young people.
Training swords for HEMA and exhibition combat: What do I really need?
- Authentic weight replica for correct fencing manual training
- Balance and grip based on historical models
- Steel practice swords for advanced users that simulate real-world handling
- Wooden and plastic versions for beginners and technique training
- Focus on authentic handling over visual detail
- Plastic (polypropylene) often preferred — robust and safe for use near spectators
- Appearance matters: recognisable historical sword shape is desirable
- Wooden swords for choreography rehearsals and movement sequences
- Weight may vary slightly in favour of safety
- Direct blade-to-blade contact with wooden swords is not recommended
The key difference lies in the training objective: those training according to historical fencing manuals (e.g. the Liechtenauer tradition) require a practice sword that closely matches the original in weight and balance. Those rehearsing exhibition fight choreography, on the other hand, prioritise robustness and safety for partner contact. Re-enactors often require a combination: good handling plus a recognisable appearance. It is also worth taking a look at suitable medieval shields and bucklers to complete the training set.
Price ranges: Which training sword suits which budget?
Simple wooden swords for children, first attempts and costume accessories. The wooden pirate sword is a classic example: light, easy to handle and ideal for playful introductions without any requirement for fencing technique. Not for serious technical training, but a solid introduction.
Handcrafted wooden practice swords made from mango wood (Gotland, Normanne) or hardwood (Gladius). Suitable for more serious technical training — movement sequences, posture control, first fencing exercises. Manufacturers: Lord of Battles and Battle Merchant.
Training swords made of polypropylene (e.g. one-handed type, one-and-a-half-handed type). Virtually indestructible, splinter-free, suitable for intensive sparring with a training partner. The most realistic handling in the plastic segment — also suitable for regular training under stress.
Wooden practice swords: Who are they suitable for?
Wooden swords are the most traditional form of training equipment and cover a wide spectrum — from a playful introduction for children to serious technical training for adults. The type of wood is crucial here, as it significantly influences weight, breaking strength and the feel during training.
Mango wood (Gotland and Normanne models) is characterised by long wood fibres, which make the material more flexible and resistant to breakage. The lower weight makes it easier to learn movement sequences without tiring — ideal for beginners and regular technical training. Beech wood, on the other hand, is heavier and has shorter fibres: the increased weight provides a more intensive workout for the muscles, but the shorter fibres make the material more prone to breaking under peak loads. Hardwood (Genuine Hardwood Training Gladius) offers a robust alternative for targeted technical training in a classic short sword format.
An important basic rule applies to all wooden training swords: blade-to-blade contact is not recommended, as this significantly increases the risk of breakage. Wooden swords are ideal for practising movement sequences, choreography and individual techniques — not for direct sparring with an opponent’s blade. Those wishing to practise parrying are better off choosing a plastic model.
Material comparison: wood, plastic and steel
| Material | Suitability | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mango wood | Beginners | Lightweight, long-grained, less prone to breaking | No blade-to-blade training |
| Beech wood | Technical training | Heavier, places greater demands on the muscles | Short-fibred, higher risk of breakage |
| Hardwood | Technical training | Robust, good sense of weight | Sparring not recommended |
| Polypropylene (plastic) | Sparring | Splinter-free, weather-resistant, robust | May develop nicks during hard fencing |
| Steel (blunt) | Advanced | Most realistic weight and handling | Requires more experience to handle |
The choice of material should always be tailored to your training goals. For children and beginners, wooden models are the sensible starting point. Anyone wishing to engage in serious sparring will find polypropylene almost indispensable. Advanced practitioners seeking an authentic feel will eventually switch to blunt steel training swords. Additionally, LARP weapons are ideal for training that prioritises safety.
Length, weight and type: the right training sword for your fighting style
Not every training sword suits every fighting style. The choice between a short sword, a one-handed sword, a one-and-a-half-handed sword and a long sword largely determines how the sword can be wielded — and which fencing techniques can be practised effectively.
The one-handed training sword (100.8 cm total length) is suitable for classic one-handed handling, often in combination with a shield or buckler. The one-and-a-half-hander type (111.8 cm) allows for both one-handed and two-handed handling and is therefore more versatile in HEMA training. The hardwood training gladius covers the short sword style of Roman fencing and is particularly compact.
As for weight: a sword that is too heavy increases fatigue and thus the risk of injury due to uncontrolled movements — particularly for beginners. Whilst a model that is too light helps to develop technique, it does not provide sufficient challenge for the muscles. The balance, i.e. the position of the centre of gravity relative to the crossguard, significantly influences the feel of the sword: a sword with a centre of gravity towards the blade feels different in the scabbard than one that is handle-heavy. Anyone preparing for a staged combat and using shields or protective gear such as a gambeson should keep an eye on the total weight of their equipment.
For re-enactors wishing to complete their appearance with suitable weapons, it is also worth taking a look at Early Medieval and Viking swords, High Medieval swords or Late Medieval swords as supplementary reference models for the historical design of the training equipment.
Whether you’re just starting out with sword fighting training or want to refine your technique as an experienced fencer — the right training sword makes a noticeable difference. Take a look around our range and find the practice sword that suits your fighting style, your level of experience and your budget.
Frequently asked questions
A practice sword is a blunt, safety-oriented replica of a sword made from wood, plastic or unpolished steel. It is used for learning sword fighting techniques, practising movement sequences and sparring with a training partner. Typical areas of use include HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts), re-enactment and preparation for exhibition fights.
No, practice swords are not sharp — the blade is deliberately kept blunt to minimise the risk of injury. They are not classified as weapons under the German Weapons Act (WaffG) and may be legally purchased, owned and used for training.
That depends on your training goals. Wooden swords made from mango wood or hardwood are ideal for beginners and for practising movement sequences — blade-to-blade contact should be avoided. Polypropylene training swords are splinter-free, weather-resistant and robust enough for direct sparring. Blunt steel practice swords offer the most realistic weight and handling, but require more experience to use.
This varies greatly depending on the material. Polypropylene models come quite close to a real sword in terms of handling, but are slightly lighter. Blunt steel practice swords simulate weight and balance most authentically. Wooden swords are generally lighter than historical originals, but are excellent for technique training as they do not cause distraction due to excessive weight.
Not necessarily. Training swords are primarily designed for learning techniques, whilst exhibition swords often meet more specific requirements regarding durability, balance and finish for use in competition. However, many plastic training swords are suitable for both purposes. Decorative swords, on the other hand, are not suitable for either purpose, as they are not designed to withstand impact.