Bastard Sword by Paul Chen Review

When it comes to collecting, Hanwei swords are a solid choice. Bastard Sword by Paul Chen earned the prestigious “BW’s Choice” award as one of the best bastard swords for collectors. Paul Chen’s swords are well-regarded in the collector community. In this review, we’ll look at what makes this particular bastard sword special, including its design, balance, and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, this sword is a great addition to any collection.

First impressions

The moment you pick up the Hanwei Bastard Sword, you notice its solid construction and design. The grip feels smooth, fitting well in your hands without any tackiness. Its antique finish gives it a cool, historical look that stands out. Overall, it feels like a well-made weapon, ready for action.

SPECIFICATIONS

Design and Aesthetics

The Hanwei Paul Chen bastard sword has a sleek, historical design with an antique finish that stands out. The grip is smooth and comfortable, wrapped in stitched leather over a wood core. The pommel is slightly oval and painted black, with visible hammer marks from the peening. Overall, it looks well-crafted and visually appealing.

Blade Quality

The blade of the Paul Chen Bastard Sword by Hanwei is made from high-carbon steel, which is strong and durable. This type of steel keeps a good edge and can handle impacts well, making it a good choice for both display and light use.

These swords normally don’t come super sharp out of the box. While it can cut, it might need additional sharpening to be really effective. The tip of the blade is well-designed for thrusting, tapering to a fine point that can penetrate targets easily.

Overall, the blade is solid and reliable. The high-carbon steel construction ensures it will last, but it could benefit from some extra sharpening to reach its best performance.

Handle and Grip

The grip is wrapped in blackened leather, which provides a secure and comfortable hold. This material not only looks good but also ensures that the sword won’t slip during use. The handle is long enough to accommodate both single-handed and two-handed use. There is a clear separation in the grip design, allowing for flexible handling depending on your preference. This makes the sword versatile and suitable for various techniques.

The pommel is oval-shaped and peened, ensuring that the grip and blade are securely held together. This adds to the sword’s overall durability and balance. The blackened finish on the grip and pommel complements the antiqued look of the blade, giving the sword a cohesive and appealing aesthetic.

Balance and Weight

The Paul Chen Bastard Sword by Hanwei weighs approximately 1,500 grams, making it a relatively heavy sword. This weight contributes to the sword’s solid and substantial feel, but it might be a bit unwieldy for those who prefer lighter blades. The point of balance is close to the guard, which helps in maintaining control and precision during use. This balance point ensures that the sword is not too front-heavy, making it easier to handle despite its length and weight.

Historical Accuracy or Inspiration

The Paul Chen Bastard Sword by Hanwei is inspired by the traditional European longswords used during the late Medieval and early Renaissance periods. This type of sword, often referred to as a “hand-and-a-half” sword, was designed to be versatile, allowing for both one-handed and two-handed use in combat.

Antiqued Finish

The antiqued finish of the sword gives it a weathered, historical look, as if it has seen many battles. This finish enhances its authenticity, making it a compelling piece for collectors interested in historically inspired weaponry.

Design Elements

• The long, double-edged blade with a fuller running down its length is typical of the swords used by knights and soldiers during the 14th to 16th centuries.
• The extended cross guard is designed to catch and deflect enemy blades, protecting the wielder’s hands—a common feature in historical swords.
• The blackened leather grip and oval-shaped pommel are reminiscent of the materials and shapes used in medieval sword-making.

Usability

Historical Reenactments and Collecting

With its authentic design and antique finish, this sword is perfect for historical reenactments, bringing a touch of medieval realism to any event. Its craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal make it a prized addition to any collection, where it can be displayed as a testament to historical weaponry.

Stage Combat and Theatrical Use

The sword’s solid construction and realistic appearance make it ideal for stage combat in theatrical productions or films. It provides an authentic look while being robust enough for choreographed fight scenes.

Training and Practice

For those practicing historical European martial arts (HEMA) or other swordsmanship disciplines, this Hanwei practical sword is a reliable training tool. Its balance and weight allow for the practice of various techniques, making it a practical choice for martial artists.

Decorative Display

The striking design and antique finish make this sword an excellent decorative piece. Whether mounted on a wall or displayed in a stand, it adds a historical touch to any room.

Light Cutting

Although it’s not razor-sharp out of the box, the sword can be used for light cutting tasks. With some additional sharpening, it can effectively cut through targets like tatami mats, offering users a glimpse into its practical functionality.