This darned ‘flu is not helping any, but slowly the plethora of swords and blades waiting in the wings to hit the market continues with 2 new Renaissance era blades from Kingston Arms and a terrifying ‘thing’ by Mike Wallace and APOC.
So first, the ‘funnest’ one..
Kingston Arms Bollock Dagger
‘Bollocks’ of course is a British and Scottish term for ‘balls’ basically, and one quick look at this cheeky blades handle reveals why. But it was no joke, this was a 13th century blade frequently kept both as a quick use sidearm and as an award or symbol of pride and masculinity. This and the Celtic anthropomorphic hilt swords are some of the more unique blade hilts in history. Makes a great humorous or honorable gift for anyone who has real cojones..
They call it a ‘Shell Guard’ Cutlass, but we all know this is a pirate sword. Apparently one based on one of several owned by the infamous Blackbeard (who as you may know, was always armed to the teeth – with a brace of pistols and at LEAST one Cutlass)..
“Ahoy! This here cutlass be forged from steel finer than any ye’ll find in these treacherous waters. Resistant to the cruel bite of rust, ‘tis perfect fer escapin’ the fate of endin’ up with a hook fer a hand. Swift and deadly, this cutlass be. Generous terms await, for any crew armed with these be assured victory in the heat of a swashbucklin’ clash. These newfangled steels be like magic!”
And finally, Mike Wallaces ‘BEAST’ – the APOC Smatchet
I can’t really call THIS a knife..
I mean, technically it is a knife, but is also a hatchet, a shovel, something to open a can with or – well – deliver incredibly deep cuts and slashes and incredibly powerful thrusts (the thing weighs nearly 2lbs!). Titanium coated D2 steel with G10 riveted handle takes this weapon of relatively recent history and makes it look like it has been evolving since Fairbain first dreamed it up during WWII.
Background info – The British Smatchet: A Blade with a Bold Legacy
A Weapon Born in War The smatchet, designed by William E. Fairbairn during World War II, was intended for close combat and used by special forces – both British and American.
Design and Features Characterized by its broad, leaf-shaped blade, the smatchet is sharpened on one side and partially on the other. The handle is designed for a secure grip, making it ideal for slashing, thrusting, and chopping.
Psychological Impact Fairbairn believed that holding the smatchet instilled confidence, determination, and aggressiveness in the user. Its balance and weight made it an effective personal weapon.
Combat and Training The smatchet was simple to use, requiring minimal training. It was particularly useful in close-quarters combat, delivering powerful blows.
Modern-Day Legacy Today, the smatchet remains popular among collectors and historical reenactors. Modern versions are still produced, ensuring its continued appreciation.
Fun Fact: The smatchet’s name combines “smashing” and “hatchet,” reflecting its dual-purpose design.
Time for a rest to shake this darned ‘flu, in the meantime – enjoy these three cool new designs! More products and surprises coming soon..!
The 5th model in the acclaimed, cut atoms level sharp Swordier and SBG Tameshigiri series just introduced its second SBG exclusive member of the family (and added a cool option to ‘model 1’ (the Kazekiri, artist formely known as Model 1, heh).
It’s the same style of blade as the Flagship – Monotempered 65 Spring Steel, but with all black fittings and by popular request no hamon by default. But NOW you can choose if you want a fake hamon or prefer a plain blade. Both have this option now, no charge extra charge either way of course!
So now that each sword has a proper name, let’s meet them, starting with the cutter formerly known as model 1..
It’s black, it cuts the void itself, what other name could it have? Monotempered 65mn Spring Steel.
Quick Video with cutting and general close look by Alex by Swordier
The Choice of Whether or not to have or not to have fake or no hamon is also available on model 1 too, the Kazekiri..
風斬り Kazekiri – ‘Air cutter’ (model 1)
Previously Model 1, the flagship the started it all off! We call it the KazeKiri because the sensation of cutting the target and cutting the air is often about the same.. It’s a weird sensation as it just sails through the targets frighteningly too easily.. Monotempered 65mn Spring Steel.
The theme is Raijin, god of storms and thunder. But rather than another ‘Raijin something something’ sword, we decided to go with the theme of what this fierce deity and blade represent. Monotempered 5160 Spring Steel, leather ito.
虎斬り Toragiri– Tiger Cutter (Model 3)
Who is hunting who here? The Samurai or the Tiger? If the Toragiri gets the first strike when it comes down to it, it’s game over for the tiger! But if the Tiger ambuses the samrai and his Haragei senses are off, no sword in the world will save him.. Differentially Hardened Suguha hamon (beautifully executed).
嵐波龍 ArashinamiRyu– Storm Wave Dragon (Model 4)
This was a hard one to name. You have Mt Fuji above a stormy sea, a Golden Dragon raging in the skies, a wild Choji hamon (real) and a tiger taking shelter in a bamboo grove. Thus, the Arashinami Ryu.
When you have been making swords since 1943, even if they do discontinue them frequently, some stand the test of time for years because they are popular and customers have no complaints.
So we took some of their new versions (all sharps) and added them to the shield section, and boy do we have some fun blades to look at today!
NEW: Arena Gladius
The Gladius could be just as much a work of art as the blade that conquered the known world, and the new Arena Gladius is a perfect example of form meats function. $250, but no scabbard I am afraid – display direct on the wall.
This one has been around a long, long time – and when you see the combination of wood, real bone grip and the brass scabbard decoration, all for under $300, it’s no wonder.
Another perennial, the Greek Hoplite sword was a weapon of last resort when the spear broke or failed, but it’s fast and deadly leaf shaped blade is not to be underestimated. $225.
It’s never been a mass appeal seller, though honestly it should be. Falcata TERRIFIED the Roman legions and a well made one like this is even more effective! Just $225 and includes leather sheathe.
Where sword canes are illegal, this little beauty will do the job perfectly. It’s stylish and its very appearance is often enough to discourage a would be attacker (whether 2 or 4 legged) to think again.. $70.
It’s brutal, enigmatic (only appearing in manuscripts, no actual antique has ever been found) and it’s neither sword, axe or pole arm. It’s all three and more. Mysterious and a deep dive topic. $275.
If I was armored up and saw a bunch of guys coming at me with these, I think running away would be the smart course of action. Maces like this 8 flange monster are no joke – and at $150, a must have item.
The evolution of the sword pretty much ended with the Saber. No sword could deliver quite such a deadly blow from horseback, and they were versatile enough for all manner of combat situations.
Here we will start with the earliest ones to the most modern.
Revolutionary Saber
Circa 1775. Inspired by the Hussar mounted warriors, the American Revolutionary war saw a lot of action in its time and changed the course of modern history. $200 with scabbard included.
Circa 1776. This is a beast of a cutting ‘meat grinder’ of a sword and there’s no neautral feeling. You either love it or you hate it. Its far from refined, just plain old scary.. $370
25 years of warfare evolution next produced this deadly and attractive Saber, the 1801 Cuirassier – and could be used as a Lance! Highly detailed in every way, $395.
These days it is a go t choice for the art of ‘Sabering’ open a bottle of Champagne. And indeed, it was still used this way back in the day, but also as a close in fighting sword or general purpose tool. $270.
The French Hussar Brigades were mobile, striking fast and skirmishing to great effect. This sword was one of their favorite non firearm tools of the trade. $380.
For all medieval weaponry enthusiasts, Swordier has just unveiled two incredible new additions to their collection, now available exclusively at SBG. These swords are not just replicas; they’re meticulously crafted pieces of art that blend historical authenticity with modern craftsmanship. Let’s delve into the details.
“The Flower of War II”
The first marvel is the ‘Flower of War II.’ This isn’t just any longsword. It boasts ornately decorated yet practical steel fittings, making it not only a sight to behold but a formidable weapon on the battlefield. Designed with precision and thrust-focused combat in mind, this sword embodies the classic longsword style but takes it a notch higher with unparalleled structural integrity and handling.
What sets the Flower of War II apart is its affordability. Priced below $300, it offers exceptional value without compromising on quality. It’s fast, reliable, and perfect for those who seek both aesthetics and functionality in their weaponry.
The XVIIIb Hollow Ground Longsword, Genuine Leather Scabbard
Next up is a sword that truly deserves a spotlight. Indeed, a nickname for it could be ‘The Stunner,’ this piece is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship. Wrapped entirely in genuine leather (third Swordier model to take it to the next level like this without doubling the cost!), from the hilt to the scabbard, it exudes luxury and durability. The complex ring hilt is an artwork in itself, designed for both beauty and effective hand protection.
And the hollow ground edge is highly effective at reducing weight while creating interesting shearing cuts..
But words can only do so much—this is a sword you need to see to believe. Its striking appearance combined with its robust build makes it a must-have for any serious collector or medieval enthusiast.
For $359.95 and get all that – until just a few short years ago you would be lucky to get a scabbard alone for that price. Not to to mention a lethal, hollowground, cutting Longsword.. Wow..
For the last few months we have been quietly working behind the scenes curating what we feel is the very best line up of swords from one of our personal favorite sword makers, Windlass Steelcrafts of India.
While we loved their swords at first sight some 20 years ago, we never really stocked them because at the time they all came unsharpened, and the sharpening service left a lot to be desired – plus it was really hard to know what they reliably had in stock,
Well, all that changed in the early 2020s – now their stock levels are super clear, their latest models factory sharp and the overall quality level – to say it has stepped up is an understatement.
So we are more than proud to fill out several new sections with their high QC ISO 9001 state of the art facility where each and every sword gets the full British stress test before receiving the holographic seal of approval.
So without any more fan boy rambling (I really love their brand philosophy, and if you are the official military sword suppliers to armies all around the world since 1943, you gotta be doing something right!) here are the categories, and one or two of my personal favorite pics from each one..
One quick thing to note though:
EVERY SWORD HAS FREE SHIPPING!
Plus you get a free gift from the accessories section with every sword purchase!
So with that out of the way, let’s take a look at the goodies, starting with none other than:
Yes, they have the officially licensed BATTLE READY replicas in stock – from the Fathers Sword to my favorite, the Atlantean and even Valeria’s sword. Great value, but unfortunately the scabbards (which are really well made) do cost a little extra and must be purchased separately.
MY FAV: The Atlantean Sword
It’s a faithful replica, though heavy as heck so that maybe only Arnie could actually wield it easily in combat. But it’s the real deal with full tang and a sharpened, 1080 monotempered blade.
Windlass has made countless medieval swords over the years, and now that we have joined up with them we may be working to bring some of the best ones back for some limited runs…! But in the meantime, they sure have stepped up their game..
Many are still sub $300 even with scabbards, but one of their nicer new ones that showcases just how far Windlass have come is the Faithkeeper Templar Sword:
FAITHKEEPER – Sword of the Knights Templar
The detail is stunning, and you know with a spring tempered 1080 carbon steel sharpened blade, it’s ornate but sure is no ornament. Comes with a matching dagger too. Until not so recently, you would pay the full price just for such a scabbard alone..
But my personal favorite, the Ulfberht Viking Sword – still crazy good value for under $300 SHIPPED..
This section isn’t as big as it was in years previously, but Windlass know how to make a really nice rapier, among other later period swords. But the one in here I like the most, isn’t actually a rapier and is a bit hard to categorize as it was late medieval, Renaissance and even exists into the modern era..
Try cutting with one and you will understand..
A dedicated Saber section will be coming soon, though it doesn’t really fit there either. Honestly, it is in a league of its own.. And man, these swords are FUN!!!
Shields and Other Medieval Weapons
What use is an arming sword without a shield? Well, it’s still good – but the sword and shield combo has proved effective since time immorial, so we added a bunch of high quality shields from huge Roman Scutum, to knightly kite shields, Celtic targes, bucklers and a few Viking shields for good measure. But my favorite, well, the Axes and the Maces always make me kind of wince when I look at them. But the thing I like the most from this section is a new series from Windlass called ‘Asgard Creations’ which are the coolest Viking style gift box ideas I have ever seen!
You get a functional and stylish hand axe, raven themed dagger – both in tempered 1055 carbon steel – and a lovely display box making it one of the coolest gifts – either for a friend or more selfishly, the Christmas present you wished you got instead of those well meaning but oh so wrong gifts that need to be returned…
Windlass started making the official Kukri knives for the Gukra regiments since 1943 and continue making them to this day. And the best part is, these Kukri are NOT replicas, these are the same ones issues to the Gurka – and have several variants, from officers Kukri, the the Assam Rifle specialists, general issue Kukri and a massive giant of a thing with a blade longer than freaking Katana pictured below (that is 30″ of blade with a two handed grip handle!).
But they also make historical and fantasy knives, from Scottish Sgian Dubh to the sleek fantasy blade ‘Ravens Claw’ and with so many decades of experience behind them and trusted by militaries all over the world, you know they know their knives like the back of their hand!
The ‘other’ category, from cool items we picked out such as mini Conan swords, pendants, and cleaning gear essentials. And for a limited only, if you order any sword you can get anything in this category for FREE!
Just add a sword to the cart, and you will see the following message at the top of the page:
Just click that link, pick out what you like from the page and it will show up as $0 in your cart (it will still show the price when you are browsing, but when you add it to the cart, its’ free).
There’s some really cool stuff there, so have fun!
Got to love this mini letter opener, though the Viking Mug and Universal Wall hanger is kind of handy too.
We will be adding more swords and categories over the coming weeks and months, including military sabers, more training gear and more product lines, so stay tuned!
