Synthetic Weapons

The classic arming sword, seen in every medieval movie ever made. Blackfencer's arming sword features a wheel pommel, swelled grip, and sparring safe blade. You'll be pleased with the sword's balance and weight. Be aware that the handle is not over-sized, so fitting a large glove on it can be tricky.

1lb 14.4 oz

38 inch over all length

31.5 inch blade length

4.25 handle length (excluding pommel)

7.5 inch cross width

2 inch width at cross, just under 1 inch at tip

1/2 inch blade thickness, tapering

3 inches from cross center of balance

We used Cold Steel's training bowies and other hard rubber training knives for years, and after several rounds of begging, Lynn Thompson of Cold Steel made rondels for us.

The blade offers a high level of flex near the tip while remaining strong near the hand. Most HEMA rondel techniques work great.  A few techniques that require stiffness along the whole blade will not, but that's the trade-off for having the safety of the flex.

Some people find the decorative points on the hilt to be a little scratchy (the wooden prototype had rounded points but this got simplified in the computer model for the mold).  One minute with a file will soften these a lot though.

If you are looking to simulate the cutting edges and blade width of a "knightly" style dagger -- also called the "sword-hilted dagger" -- this is a great alternative to the rondel trainer.  Although both the point and the flex are slightly less friendly than the rondel, they are within range for similar knife and dagger trainers.  Padded clothing is recommended, and of course eye protection is a must.

Designed with the expert guidance of Roberto Martinez-Loyo of Elite Fencing Club, this macuahuitl trainer offers a realistic weight and balance without breaking the bank. The macuahuitl was typically a ripping and tearing weapon used for taking prisoners, and when you handle this and imagine the flint-lined edge, you'll understand why.

2 lbs, 8.2 oz

37 inches overall length

10 inches handle length

4 inches wide tip

3 inches wide base

3/4 inches thickness