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Bastard swords are among the most popular choices for enthusiasts and collectors, prized for their versatility and historical significance.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, we’re going to share our quest by bringing you some of the most popular and well-crafted bastard swords from around the world.
Perfect for reenactment, combat practice, or display, these top picks combine authenticity, craftsmanship, and functionality.
Best Bastards
- B.W Choise: Bastard Sword by Paul Chen
- Best Battle Ready: Great War Sword Tinker
- Best for Practise: Bastard Battle Sword
- Collector’s Edition: Rhineland Bastard Sword
- Best Budget-Friendly: Medieval Longsword
- Best Bastard Replica – Longclaw
- Anduril Aragorn’s Sword
- Tinker Bastard Sword
B.W Choise – Bastard Sword by Paul Chen
Specifications
- Overall: 127.5 cm
- Blade Length: 98 cm
- Weight: 1300 gr
- Battle Ready-Full Tang-Sharp Blade
- Blade Material: 1566
- Price: 477$
If you’re looking for a sword that combines practicality and style, the Hanwei Bastard Sword by Paul Chen is a solution. This sword is robust, with a length of 127.32 cm and a weight of 1155 grams. It’s designed for use, whether for historical fencing or casual backyard cutting.
The blade is made from 1566 high carbon steel, ensuring it remains sharp and resilient. The grip is wrapped in sleek black leather with practical stitching for a secure hold. This sword adapts well to both one-handed and two-handed use, making it versatile for various techniques.
The blade has an antique finish that helps prevent moisture and corrosion, but regular maintenance is necessary. It comes with a wooden scabbard stained in rich brown and a metal tip for added durability.
The Hanwei Bastard Sword by Paul Chen is a solid choice for any sword enthusiast, suitable for both use and display.
Best Battle Ready – Great War Sword Tinker
Specifications
- Overall: 47 3/8 inches (120.33 cm)
- Blade Length: 35 7/8 inches (91.12 cm)
- Weight: 3 lb 9.5 oz (1627.3 grams)
- Battle Ready-Full Tang-Sharp Blade
- Blade Material: 5160 High Carbon Steel
- Price:580$
The Hanwei Tinker Great Sword of War is a cutting sword designed for heavy targets. Weighing just under four pounds, it offers perfect balance and an extended grip for unmatched leverage, meeting Tinker’s high standards for static and dynamic balance.
The blade, made from 5160 steel, is hardened to HRc50-52 through a marquenching process, ensuring toughness and edge retention. The hilt is securely fastened with Tinker’s recessed sleeve mounting system for easy tightening.
This sword blends functionality and craftsmanship, making it a reliable choice for the rigors of battle.
Best for Practise – Bastard Battle Sword
Specifications
- Blade Length: 29.8 Inches
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel
- Style: Modern
- Item Weight: 1644 Grams
- Battle Ready-Full Tang-Blunt
- Price: 541$
For reenactment and Western Martial Arts, the Bastard Battle Sword is a top choice. It features a robust alloy steel blade and an updated, thicker guard for enhanced strength and resilience during combat. These improvements not only boost durability but also ensure safety with a more secure guard design.
The all-leather scabbard is a unique feature, providing extra safety by cushioning falls and reducing the need for frequent replacements. The sword’s grip and scabbard are in neutral-colored leather, allowing for personal customization.
With a focus on practicality and safety, the Hanwei Practical Bastard Sword is ideal for various combat and training activities.
Collector’s Edition – Rhinelander Bastard Sword
Specification
- Blade Length: 90.8 Centimeters
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel
- Style: Modern
- Item Weight: 1470 Grams
- Edge: Sharp
- Price: 508$
The Hanwei Rhinelander Bastard sword is a versatile weapon that appeals to both collectors and medieval martial arts enthusiasts. Inspired by the cut-and-thrust swords of the late 15th century from Central Europe, it blends elegance with functionality.
This sword features a ring-guard hilt that protects the hand and enhances balance, supported by a scent stopper pommel. Crafted from 5160 high-carbon steel, the blade offers outstanding durability and edge retention.
It is hardened to a 54HRc, ensuring peak performance. The blade’s riveted-tang and fullered design not only add to its visual appeal but also its practical use.
The sword includes a leather-covered scabbard to protect it during storage and transport, making the Rhinelander Bastard sword both a striking piece for any collection and a dependable tool for cutting enthusiasts.
Budget-Friendly – Medieval Longsword
Specifications
- Overall Length: 105 cm
- Handle Material: Alloy Steel
- Blade Material: High Carbon Steel
- Style: Modern
- Price: 189$
If you like cool swords, you’ll want to check out this one from RealFireNSteel. It’s modern and looks really awesome.The sword is 105cm long, so it’s pretty big. The blade is made of high carbon steel, which means it’s strong and sharp. I think that’s great because it makes the sword look even cooler. The handle is made of alloy steel, so it feels solid when you hold it. Plus, it’s designed for both left-handed and right-handed people, which I think is pretty handy.
It also comes with a wooden scabbard to keep the blade safe, and there’s a leather belt loop so you can hang it on your belt if you want. I think that’s a nice touch. Overall, I really like this sword from RealFireNSteel. It’s a great addition to any collection, or just to have around if you’re into swords.
Best Bastard Replica – Longclaw
Specifications
| Overall length | 119 cm |
| Blade Length | 89 cm |
| Weight | 1406 g |
| Blade Material | 1095 High Carbon Steel |
| Specifications | Fully Functional Replica |
| Price | $820 |
Jon Snow’s Bastard Sword from Game of Thrones is a must-have replica for any fan. Crafted with folded 1095 high carbon steel, this blade captures the essence of Valyrian steel. The iconic crossguard and custom dire wolf pommel faithfully replicate the show’s design.
This sword isn’t just for show—it’s fully functional and perfect for cutting, training, or display. It comes with a hard scabbard featuring metal fittings and belt loops for added authenticity.
Anduril Aragorn’s Sword
Specifications:
| Overall length | 118.87 cm. |
| Blade Length | 88.9 cm. |
| Weight | 1600 g |
| Blade Material | 1095 High Carbon Steel Blade |
| Specifications | Fully Functional Replica |
| Price | $579.99 |
Another famous replica in fully functional form is Aragorn’s Anduril from The Lord of the Rings movie. This bastard sword, forged from 1095 high carbon steel, is full tang and battle-ready, unlike many decorative replicas on the market. Perfect for display, cosplay, or practical use, it offers the freedom to use it as you wish.
The replica includes all the details from the movie version. The unique handguard and handle design are faithfully recreated, giving the sword its distinctive look. The blade features Elvish engravings, enhancing its authenticity and appeal. The leather-wrapped handle provides a comfortable grip and a traditional finish.
Medieval Bastard Sword
Specifications
- Blade Length: 90 cm
- Handle Material: Wood, leather-lined
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel, tempered spring steel
- Item Weight: 1.2 kg (1.6 kg with sheath)
- Edge: Blunt
- Price: 432$
This bastard sword is a solid choice for anyone into reenactment or stage fighting. Made from strong spring steel, it’s tough and durable.
The blade is full tang, meaning the metal extends through the handle, making it sturdy and less likely to break. The handle is wrapped in leather for a comfortable grip. The blade has a fuller, or groove, which makes the sword lighter and more flexible, so it’s easier to handle and won’t tire you out quickly.
It comes with a wooden scabbard covered in leather, with a belt for easy carrying. The edges of the blade are blunt and the tip is rounded, making it safe for reenactment battles or stage fighting. Overall, this sword is a great option if you’re looking for something well-made, good-looking, and safe for fun activities like reenactments.
Tinker Bastard Sword
Specifications
- Blade Length: 84.77 cm
- Handle Length: 23.81 cm
- Weight: 1.19 kilograms
- Blade: Sharp
- Blade Material: Alloy Steel
- Style: Modern
- Price: 514$
This sword is tailor-made for Western Martial Arts practitioners and sword enthusiasts. It comes in both sharp and blunt versions, perfect for actual cutting or safe training.
These swords are built to the high standards typical of Tinker’s custom works. The blade is made from tough 5160 Spring Steel and hardened to a solid 50-53 Hrc, while the tang is softer, around the low 30s Hrc.
The end of the tang features a threaded section that fits into an allen nut recessed in the pommel, making it easy to take the hilt apart for inspection or to swap out the blade.
The Tinker Pearce Sharpened Bastard Sword features a long, sharp blade with a flattened diamond shape for better strength. The steel guard and pommel add durability and balance.
The handle is wooden, wrapped in black leather for a comfortable, secure grip. Each sword also comes with a fiberglass scabbard, covered in black leather with stylish steel accents, providing extra protection and flair.
Last words
Whether you’re swinging it in a reenactment or simply admiring its craftsmanship from your display, the bastard sword holds a storied place in both history and popular culture. These swords offer something for everyone, whether you’re a collector seeking authenticity or a fan looking for a piece of your favorite movie.
It’s fascinating to see how the bastard sword bridges the gap between practicality and artistic representation. As we’ve seen, this versatile weapon is often mistaken for its close relative, the longsword. If you’re curious about how these two compare, stay tuned for our upcoming article where we’ll delve deeper into the distinct characteristics that set them apart. For those who relish the blend of fantasy and reality, our next feature on fantasy swords inspired by historical designs promises to captivate. These pieces not only showcase the ingenuity of their creators but also pay homage to the real-world prowess of traditional swordsmithing.
FAQ: All About Bastard Swords
What is a bastard sword? A bastard sword, also known as a hand-and-a-half sword is characterized by a long blade and a handle that can accommodate one or two hands.
How does a bastard sword differ from a longsword? While often confused with longswords, they typically feature a slightly shorter blade and grip than longswords.
Are there any famous historical or fictional bastard swords? Yes, several! Historical examples include the Munich and the Oakeshott. In fiction, swords like Jon Snow’s Longclaw from “Game of Thrones” represent the bastard sword.
What should I look for when choosing a bastard sword for my collection? When selecting a bastard sword, consider the following.
- Authenticity: Whether you prefer a historically accurate piece or a fantasy-inspired sword.
- Craftsmanship: Quality of materials and attention to detail in the sword’s construction.
- Purpose: Decide if the sword will be used for combat reenactments, ceremonial purposes, or display.
Can I use a bastard sword for fencing or reenactments? Absolutely! Many bastard swords are designed not only for display but also for practical use in fencing and historical reenactments.
Where can I buy a bastard sword? Bastard swords can be purchased from a variety of sources, including online retailers, specialty sword shops, and at arms and armor exhibitions
Where can I learn more about swords similar to bastard swords? Stay tuned for our articles on longswords and fantasy swords inspired by real designs, where we explore other intriguing types of swords and their unique characteristics.
