The True Size and Weight of Medieval Swords Explained

Hollywood loves a good sword fight, with knights effortlessly swinging around massive broadswords. But were these legendary weapons truly backbreakers in real life? This article dives into the surprising truth about the size and weight of medieval swords, separating myth from metal.

Hollywood might have us believe all medieval swords were giant broadswords. But the truth is, they came in all shapes and sizes!

According to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, medieval swords ranged from short, handy daggers for close combat to massive two-handed greatswords meant for delivering powerful blows.

Here's the surprising part: just because a sword is bigger doesn't always mean it's heavier. Take the longsword, for example. It's longer than an arming sword, but as Tobias Capwell, curator at the Royal Armouries in Leeds, explains, it was designed to be used with one or two hands, making it a versatile weapon.

So, next time you see a knight wielding a seemingly enormous sword, remember, size doesn't always equal weight. It's all about the fighting style!

How Heavy Were Medieval Swords Really?

Okay, so medieval swords came in all sizes. But were they still heavy and cumbersome like Hollywood portrays? Here's where things get surprising!

Dr. David Verdan, a researcher specializing in medieval weaponry, dispels the myth: "most medieval swords actually weighed less than 4.5 pounds (2 kg)" (The Arma.org). That's lighter than a gallon of milk!

So, what's the secret behind their manageable weight? It all boils down to science (and some very skilled swordsmiths).

Here's the breakdown:

• Design: Medieval swords were crafted for balance and maneuverability. This meant a focus on a well-distributed weight, making them feel lighter even if they weren't featherweight.
• Material: High-carbon steel was the star of the show. This material is incredibly strong, allowing swordsmiths to create thin yet durable blades without adding unnecessary bulk.
• Purpose: The weight also depended on the sword's intended use. Lighter swords were ideal for quick attacks and parrying blows, while some ceremonial swords prioritized a grand appearance over practicality, leading to a heavier build.

The Power of Balance of the Medieval Sword

We've learned that medieval swords came in various sizes and were surprisingly light. But here's the real kicker: when it comes to swordsmanship, balance trumps weight every time.

Think about it this way: even a lightweight sword can feel clunky and awkward if its weight isn't distributed properly. As Mike Loades, a renowned swordsman, emphasizes in his book Swords and Swordsmen (2011), "balance is key to wielding a sword effectively. A well-balanced blade, regardless of size, feels like an extension of your arm, allowing for swift strikes and precise control."

Take, for example, Henry Purcy’s Greatsword during the Renaissance period. Granted that it's a huge sword but because the weight is evenly distributed, you can control it with ease. This allows for faster swings and more precise strikes, making you a much more formidable opponent.

Want one for yourself? Check out our master replica of the “Hotspur” great sword:

Materials Used in the Medieval Sword: The Strength Within

Now that we've explored the surprising world of medieval sword sizes and weights, let's delve into the secret ingredient that made it all possible: high-carbon steel.

The Wallace Collection in London explains that this remarkable material was the key for swordsmiths to achieve the seemingly impossible. High-carbon steel offered incredible strength, allowing the creation of thin, lightweight blades that wouldn't sacrifice durability.

Imagine a sword so strong that it could deliver powerful blows yet be nimble enough for quick maneuvers. That's the magic of high-carbon steel! This material's strength allowed for a lighter design overall, making the sword more balanced and easier to wield. It's like having the best of both worlds: a strong, reliable weapon that doesn't weigh you down.

Check out our 1095 high carbon steel medieval sword replica. This bad boy is 30.7 inches long and has a wooden sword hilt. You don't wanna miss this one!

So, were medieval swords heavy?

So, we've shattered the Hollywood myth of the backbreaking broadsword! Medieval swords came in a surprising array of sizes, with even larger ones being surprisingly lightweight. This wasn't magic, but a combination of clever design, the strength of high-carbon steel, and a focus on balance for effective combat.

At swordsswords.com, we craft well-balanced medieval swords for sale. They allow for faster swings and more precise strikes. But as this blog proved, it's the key to wielding a blade effectively, not just raw strength.

Intrigued by the different types of medieval swords and their unique characteristics? Dive deeper in our next blog post: "Swords from Medieval Times" where we explore the fascinating world of these iconic weapons in more detail!