cRPG

Off Topic => Historical Discussion => Topic started by: Sagremore on May 16, 2011, 06:54:53 pm

Title: Weight of swords...
Post by: Sagremore on May 16, 2011, 06:54:53 pm
This may belong in historic discussion but I figured a wider audience might be more interested.

The other day there was a heated discussion on NA Siege where some ignorant bloke was saying that a flamberge weighed like 40 lbs or something preposterous. He got torn a new one by several people but he also had a few supporters. Out of curiosity I googled that shit and found these articles. They are kinda long winded for the internet crowd but if you just read the intro and skim theres a lot of good stuff there. As well as ample proof that medieval swords were light balanced and very practical.

2-Handers: http://www.thearma.org/essays/2HGS.html

General Medieval Swords: http://www.thehaca.com/essays/weights.htm

Cheers
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Enzo on May 16, 2011, 08:37:28 pm
This argument has come up a lot and it usually starts with someone complaining that 2-handed swords shouldn't be faster than 1-handed swords. I can understand why people would think this since one weapon is obviously larger than the other but after reading through some of your links it appears the weight difference is really only a few pounds. That along with the fact that you are using both arms instead of just one, I can see how a 2-hander may be faster.

It looks as though Crpg may be more realistic than I thought  :o
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Konrax on May 16, 2011, 09:02:53 pm
A real claymore weighs about 9-10 lbs.

A katana ranges from 2-3lbs.

One handed swords usually weight less or around the same as a katana.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Digglez on May 16, 2011, 10:57:55 pm
This argument has come up a lot and it usually starts with someone complaining that 2-handed swords shouldn't be faster than 1-handed swords. I can understand why people would think this since one weapon is obviously larger than the other but after reading through some of your links it appears the weight difference is really only a few pounds. That along with the fact that you are using both arms instead of just one, I can see how a 2-hander may be faster.

It looks as though Crpg may be more realistic than I thought  :o

The further away from the fulcrum you are, the more speed & force you need to travel the same distance as a shorter lever. 

Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Malaclypse on May 17, 2011, 12:14:09 pm
The further away from the fulcrum you are, the more speed & force you need to travel the same distance as a shorter lever.

This is true, but the force of a swing with two arms will be greater than swinging with only one with the offhand also holding up a relatively bulky shield, I'd think. Foregoing the shield, you will generally swing faster with a 1hand than a 2hand. I went a full gen using a one hander with no shield with 85 WPP (archery being my main vocation), and it swung like lightning.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: IceManX on May 17, 2011, 01:12:46 pm
A real claymore weighs about 9-10 lbs.

A katana ranges from 2-3lbs.

One handed swords usually weight less or around the same as a katana.

Not rly...

a Claymore had a weight around 2,5 kg - that means around 5 pounds.

There are just some rumors around because the well-preserved weapons are pomp weapons. They were not rly used for fights, just as a decoration.
Normal Medieval weapons had weights around 2,5 pounds to around 5-7 pounds.

But if you talk about weights.
Most of the armors that are well preserved are also just pomp armors, or were made for tournaments. For the tournaments the armors very much thicker because of the cause of accidents.
The normal armors which were used for fights and wars were not as heavy as tournament/pomp armors.

Imagine today a soldier has sometimes more weight than a knight in medieval or even equal to a knight.

And about the speed of 2handers, try urself using a staff or something like that and swing it with 1 hand and then with 2 hands.. there u go.
If u rly get outspammend by a 2h/Polearm, then perhaps his lvl is higher and yours is to low. Or try stacking more Agi :)
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Jarlek on May 17, 2011, 03:46:01 pm
This being said. The main advantage that 1 hander with a shield had over 2 handers was that they could attack and defend at the same time. Since that's impossible with the game engine it would be very imbalanced for 1 handers to be slower. Also with fighting in general, it's more about knocking the enemies weapon away than to hit your opponent. Going straight for the kill was one of the quickest ways to die. Sadly, the only thing closely resembling this is chambering.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Shinimas on May 17, 2011, 04:19:36 pm
A real claymore weighs about 9-10 lbs.

A katana ranges from 2-3lbs.

One handed swords usually weight less or around the same as a katana.

No, laymore is 2-2,5 kgs, it's weight is generally exaggerated, because it appears to be big, but it's actually a thin, flexible cutting blade.

Quote
This being said. The main advantage that 1 hander with a shield had over 2 handers was that they could attack and defend at the same time. Since that's impossible with the game engine it would be very imbalanced for 1 handers to be slower. Also with fighting in general, it's more about knocking the enemies weapon away than to hit your opponent. Going straight for the kill was one of the quickest ways to die. Sadly, the only thing closely resembling this is chambering.

I can't agree with that. One of the main principles of European (German and Italian anyway, two schools we know the most about) fencing was about acting "indes" (German for "inside" or "at the same moment") which involves attacking at the same time your opponent does, utilizing the technique called "master strikes", five strikes which are blocks and attacks at the same time. And from my limited experience with fencing with the shield, the main advantage of it is getting close to your opponent, pressing against him so he can't move his hands, while you're swinging at him.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Sagremore on May 17, 2011, 07:03:28 pm
I am glad people are discussing this but its seems like a few decided to comment before really looking through the linked articles.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Jarlek on May 17, 2011, 08:09:02 pm
No, laymore is 2-2,5 kgs, it's weight is generally exaggerated, because it appears to be big, but it's actually a thin, flexible cutting blade.

I can't agree with that. One of the main principles of European (German and Italian anyway, two schools we know the most about) fencing was about acting "indes" (German for "inside" or "at the same moment") which involves attacking at the same time your opponent does, utilizing the technique called "master strikes", five strikes which are blocks and attacks at the same time. And from my limited experience with fencing with the shield, the main advantage of it is getting close to your opponent, pressing against him so he can't move his hands, while you're swinging at him.
Soooo, guess we agree then :D
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Konrax on May 17, 2011, 09:06:45 pm
No, laymore is 2-2,5 kgs, it's weight is generally exaggerated, because it appears to be big, but it's actually a thin, flexible cutting blade.

I can't agree with that. One of the main principles of European (German and Italian anyway, two schools we know the most about) fencing was about acting "indes" (German for "inside" or "at the same moment") which involves attacking at the same time your opponent does, utilizing the technique called "master strikes", five strikes which are blocks and attacks at the same time. And from my limited experience with fencing with the shield, the main advantage of it is getting close to your opponent, pressing against him so he can't move his hands, while you're swinging at him.

Not that I disagree with you, that the low is around 6 really for a claymore, one made today with modern materials and a steel hilt is indeed in this wight class.

http://www.factoryx.com/ProductDetail.aspx?prodID=SL54077&productFor=m

Just as an example.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: UrLukur on May 17, 2011, 10:00:49 pm
Not that I disagree with you, that the low is around 6 really for a claymore, one made today with modern materials and a steel hilt is indeed in this wight class.

http://www.factoryx.com/ProductDetail.aspx?prodID=SL54077&productFor=m

Just as an example.

Just pointing out that i can made one that have weight 43243 kilos. And it means squat, because medieval (and bit later) swords were light.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on May 18, 2011, 08:19:58 pm
I own an arming sword, it weight 3 lbs at best, my decorative one however...
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: MrShovelFace on May 18, 2011, 11:15:28 pm
The further away from the fulcrum you are, the more speed & force you need to travel the same distance as a shorter lever.

its the other way around

the same reason a wrench is more effective than your teeth
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Cyclopsided on May 19, 2011, 01:41:42 pm
weapons were typically 2 to 4 pounds, 4 being a larger 2handed word, maybe up to 5 on a greatsword or long 2handed axe.
They were light. Two handed swords do swing faster than a 1hander, but 1 handers get a shield. When you swing with two hands you get two points of influence and it is very easy to swing.
If your weapon was close to 3 pounds, you could swing it around for HOURS while still killing people very very efficiently. Weapons were not heavy, or they could not be used in battle.
For example, one handed battle axes had really small heads and weighed very little. A one handed battle axe would typically weigh 2 to 2.5 pounds

Of course, for game balance one handers and 2 handers swing the same speed. And they do in game. Most shielders seem to have bad footwork and timing which let them get spammed viciously by 2handers. They are not slower weapons in game, contrary to popular belief.

Now for armor. For game balance, you are much slower when wearing armor. Realistically, hardly at all. You can do handstands and cartwheels in platemail, hell you could run a mile at full speed with ease. Knights vaulted up onto their horses with no problem.
Something lighter like Chainmail? You would hardly know you were wearing it. People trained in their armor for years and were completely used to it like it was a part of themselves.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Dunecat on May 20, 2011, 09:59:58 am
weapons were typically 2 to 4 pounds, 4 being a larger 2handed word, maybe up to 5 on a greatsword or long 2handed axe.
They were light. Two handed swords do swing faster than a 1hander, but 1 handers get a shield. When you swing with two hands you get two points of influence and it is very easy to swing.
If your weapon was close to 3 pounds, you could swing it around for HOURS while still killing people very very efficiently. Weapons were not heavy, or they could not be used in battle.
For example, one handed battle axes had really small heads and weighed very little. A one handed battle axe would typically weigh 2 to 2.5 pounds

Of course, for game balance one handers and 2 handers swing the same speed. And they do in game. Most shielders seem to have bad footwork and timing which let them get spammed viciously by 2handers. They are not slower weapons in game, contrary to popular belief.

Now for armor. For game balance, you are much slower when wearing armor. Realistically, hardly at all. You can do handstands and cartwheels in platemail, hell you could run a mile at full speed with ease. Knights vaulted up onto their horses with no problem.
Something lighter like Chainmail? You would hardly know you were wearing it. People trained in their armor for years and were completely used to it like it was a part of themselves.
Indeed.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tristan on May 24, 2011, 01:39:25 am
Well you almsot seemed convincing except you said chainmail.... rpg +1, historical correctness -1.

Apart from that, yes, a plate armor (not mail!) is very flexible and the weight is distributed so well, that you can do gymnastics in it.

However Mailles (what you call chainmail) is very heavy and all the weight is centered on the shoulders. A lot used a belt to make better weight distribution.

A plate armor is in every way more effective than maile or hauberk, but is also about 100 to 200 years younger.
Title: Re: Plate Armour
Post by: Elric_de_Melnibone on July 04, 2011, 01:27:04 am
I know this topic has been dead for a while, but something has been bothering me ever since I got my suit of plate armour ingame.


Well, I own a full suit of plate armour in real life, along with dents, scratches and everything that armour that is actually used suffers.
My hobby is full-contact fighting with next to no rules, and I enjoy it a great deal. For the sake of protection, good armour is required.


Now, that's all not really important here, it's just to make it clear that I have experience in wearing and using medieval armour.
(Almost) All that has been said in the last posts is true.


Now owning a suit of plate armour in real life, I, of course, want to have that plate armour in games as well.
So I saved up my money, used crappy gear for a long, long time. And now I'm here, with plate armour in cRPG.

Then I tried it out for the first time.

It was rather dissapointing.


I'm aware of the need for balance, but the restrictions you receive ingame for wearing plate armour seem way too strong.

Without the plate armour I love and use without being restricted much in terms of mo- and agility in real life, I was able to kill in duels, was alot quicker, blocks, chambers and attacks were alot more responsive.

WITH the plate armour, I felt like my character was forced into being "drunk".
No kidding. Whenever I use plate armour, it feels so bloody clumsy and unresponsive, as if my character was drunk.

I know that I play just like that when I'm actually drunk, but it's rather dissapointing to be forced into that "level of play" when there is no logical reason or explanation (except balance) for it.

Not to mention that I was still killed way too easily. C'mon, I've been hit full force with fullmetal maces, swords and axes in real life in my armour, and I'm still alive and kicking - actually, even the mace didn't really stop me or knocked me out.


All I'm saying is that I would love it if cRPG would remove those silly debuffs from plate armour and find some other way to balance it.

That's just a wish of mine, and I doubt it will be granted.
But one can dream, right?  :wink:

Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on July 04, 2011, 05:38:34 am
Wish it was like that too, but, whiners and haters will whine and hate...
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tears of Destiny on July 04, 2011, 06:55:36 am
If you guys want "effective" plate, they would have to increase the cost by a significant amount :/
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on July 04, 2011, 07:16:52 am
Tears you know full well that cost is not a balancing factor, remember all the crazy suggestions of ultra expansive items, and the trolling that ensued...
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Elric_de_Melnibone on July 04, 2011, 01:09:58 pm
I don't really mind increasing cost at all.

That would mean increased repair costs as well, which would make it even less profitable to always use it as it is right now.
And right now, well, the repair costs render the plate armour completely "not worth it".

Yes, plate should be very, very powerful.
But you could only use it once in a while - the repair costs I'm thinking about would dry out even the richest players rather fast if they -always- used it.


Maybe I could think about the whole idea of buffing plate in a -sensible- way and open a thread in the suggestion corner?


Because... it's really, really "meh" right now. And that makes me a sad panda.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tears of Destiny on July 04, 2011, 05:52:41 pm
Tears you know full well that cost is not a balancing factor, remember all the crazy suggestions of ultra expansive items, and the trolling that ensued...

It is part of the balancing factor, as the vast majority of the players do not have oodles of cash.
Better stuff has always cost more, effecting 89% of the players due to upkeep.

Clearly I don't know full well :/
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Teeth on July 04, 2011, 09:01:27 pm
Realism is really not attainable in this game. Most used equipment for the regular soldiers of the medieval battlefield were the spear and shield, a virtually non existent build in cRPG anyway, so I'd say we should stop trying to incorporate all kinds of ideas because they are realistic, when its undoable with Warband's limitations.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Kafein on July 05, 2011, 01:13:25 am
Still, heavy armors seem pretty meh to me atm. They slow you down reducing your effectiveness both in melee and in ranged dodging. The effect of the additional survivability is really not that great for such a penalty. The high cost should mean they give you an edge. Well, they don't.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: BlackMilk on July 05, 2011, 09:28:58 am
My K/D when I'm wearing a Red Gambeson is better than when I'm wearing a Heavy Plate Armor...
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Siiem on July 06, 2011, 09:53:39 pm
My K/D when I'm wearing a Red Gambeson is better than when I'm wearing a Heavy Plate Armor...

Thats because your swings do a ton more damage and the speed is nigh light.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Peasant_Woman on July 08, 2011, 02:25:34 pm
Honestly I think plate should cost quite a bit more, and the penalty for wearing it lowered a bit to see if that makes it a fair tradeoff. Because as it is when I wear plate (On an alt) all it helps with is making bounces a bit more common and I take an extra 2 (usually) good hits to die, not a fair bonus for having to fight drunk really.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Lordark on July 09, 2011, 07:44:47 am
I went to a Ren fair a while back and I tried to swing a great sword and that muther musta wight ATLEAST 20 lbs!
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tears of Destiny on July 09, 2011, 07:46:42 am
I went to a Ren fair a while back and I tried to swing a great sword and that muther musta wight ATLEAST 20 lbs!

No real greatsword weighed more then 8 lbs if used for combative purposes and not ceremonial. rarely did any two handed word exceed 6 lbs and rarely did any one handed exceed 2.

Most people do not have the right muscles built up, and since the swords are so long, it feels heavier then they are.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Apostata on July 09, 2011, 11:26:34 am
No real greatsword weighed more then 8 lbs if used for combative purposes and not ceremonial. rarely did any two handed word exceed 6 lbs and rarely did any one handed exceed 2.

Most people do not have the right muscles built up, and since the swords are so long, it feels heavier then they are.

+1
Same problem as with rifles. Swords have not always have been balanced properly aswell. At least most quantity of archeological evidence in Czech Republic shows swords with centre of its weight near the pommen
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Cyclopsided on July 09, 2011, 04:12:05 pm
Lol I was at a knife shop the other day and saw a greatsword off in a corner so I went and picked it up.
Display one of course, that thing weighed way more than a real one would. Way too thick for no reason, but it wasn't made for combat ofc. It probably weighed 9 pounds.
Wish there was a legit ~5 pound one there I could have enjoyed.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Dunecat on July 13, 2011, 10:07:46 am
Well you almsot seemed convincing except you said chainmail.... rpg +1, historical correctness -1.

Apart from that, yes, a plate armor (not mail!) is very flexible and the weight is distributed so well, that you can do gymnastics in it.

However Mailles (what you call chainmail) is very heavy and all the weight is centered on the shoulders. A lot used a belt to make better weight distribution.

A plate armor is in every way more effective than maile or hauberk, but is also about 100 to 200 years younger.
I've seen people doing gymnastics in lamellar scale armour, which, I assure you, is heavier than maile, yet quite usable even by 14 years old person I was at that point.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Penitent on July 13, 2011, 03:52:36 pm
I went to a Ren fair a while back and I tried to swing a great sword and that muther musta wight ATLEAST 20 lbs!

Yeah...that wasn't a real sword then.  Probably intended for decorative purposes...probably made out of stainless steel.  Such a sword is not fit for combat.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: FICO on July 20, 2011, 03:49:47 pm
my longsword is 2,2 kg
128 cm (blade 100 cm x 4,8 cm tapering toward point to 2,8 cm)
i have 52 kg now and i am not very strong, but i can wield it without problems.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Mala on July 20, 2011, 04:36:20 pm
The problem is not to wield it a few minutes, but a couple of hours.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: FICO on July 20, 2011, 05:36:36 pm
we usually have training for about 2-3 hrs.

when on tourney, after 3 rounds of battle (5vs5) which are less than 10 mins, we do not puff
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: DrKronic on July 26, 2011, 02:33:36 am
http://www.thearma.org/essays/2HGS.html

thats all about 2handed swords, and yes contrary to forum belief they could hack pike shafts as they did (omg what wood is weaker than steel NO WAI)



taken from that article-


"The Italian humanist historian Paulus Jovius writing in the early 1500s also described the two-hand great sword as being used by Swiss soldiers to chop the shafts of pikes at the battle of Fornovo in 1495"

"The fighting two-handed sword, weighed (on average) between 5-7 lbs. I give the following three examples, randomly chosen from our own collections, which I hope are adequate to make the point:

Two-handed sword, German, c.1550 (IX.926). Weight: 7 lb 6oz.

Two-handed sword, German, dated 1529 (IX.991). Weight: 5 lb 1oz.

Two-handed sword, Scottish, mid 16th century, (IX.926). Weight: 5 lb 10oz.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: deathbringer521 on September 01, 2011, 09:46:32 am
alot of 2 handers (not hand and a half) were taller or as tall as the person wielding them (example: the sword used by William Wallace, and the flamberge). even so they did not weigh that much (10 - 20 pounds). in one of your sources they declare the swords are "Medieval Swords are neither unwieldably heavy..." : / well they weren't heavy or unwieldable but they wouldnt have been your first choice for a dueling weapon, it is also good to note that this source is referring to short swords more than half the time (short swords are maybe 5 inches longer than your average butter knife and for close combat only).
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tears of Destiny on September 01, 2011, 09:52:01 am
alot of 2 handers (not hand and a half) were taller or as tall as the person wielding them (example: the sword used by William Wallace, and the flamberge). even so they did not weigh that much (10 - 20 pounds). in one of your sources they declare the swords are "Medieval Swords are neither unwieldably heavy..." : / well they weren't heavy or unwieldable but they wouldnt have been your first choice for a dueling weapon, it is also good to note that this source is referring to short swords more than half the time (short swords are maybe 5 inches longer than your average butter knife and for close combat only).

Wat? What sword weighed ten to twenty pounds?
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 01, 2011, 06:40:02 pm
My arming sword is 39 1/2 inches long, it weight 3lbs.

Longswords would be longer by a few inches but far more thinner, which give them about the same weight as my sword.

Ceremonial sword could weight a fuckton, but who cares, they werent battle swords.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Anwyl on September 01, 2011, 11:59:34 pm
I have a 119.4 cm (47 inches for you Americans) Hanwei Tinker Longsword that weighs about 1.3 kg (2 pounds 13 ounces).

Not heavy at all considering the point of balance is 8.25 cm (3 and 1/4 inch) down the blade. Furthermore, I can swing it as fast, if not faster than a single handed sword, and even with my scrawny muscles, I've done cut tests that have gone through like butter.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Jarlek on September 02, 2011, 02:05:17 am
I have a 119.4 cm (47 inches for you Americans) Hanwei Tinker Longsword that weighs about 1.3 kg (2 pounds 13 ounces).

Not heavy at all considering the point of balance is 8.25 cm (3 and 1/4 inch) down the blade. Furthermore, I can swing it as fast, if not faster than a single handed sword, and even with my scrawny muscles, I've done cut tests that have gone through like butter.
Yeah, 2handed weapons are actually quite fast. Even faster is spears and the like (since you hold them further in the middle and stuff). One handed weapons weren't that fast to swing really, their strength was in being able to block and attack at the same time. Not necessarily with what you'd expect. (Blocking with shield, striking with sword. Then suddenly parrying with the sword and shieldbashing, taking away the balance of the enemy). Sadly we can't have that in this game, but one can always hope a game will come with it.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: FICO on September 02, 2011, 09:46:47 am
i think that shieldbash could be done (kicking animation change to bashing)
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: BlackMilk on September 02, 2011, 10:37:34 am
i think that shieldbash could be done (kicking animation change to bashing)
It was done already in another mod
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Jarlek on September 02, 2011, 01:33:56 pm
i think that shieldbash could be done (kicking animation change to bashing)
Still wouldn't give us the ability to attack and defend at the same time.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Herald_Hardrata on September 04, 2011, 07:12:02 am
http://www.thearma.org/essays/2HGS.html

thats all about 2handed swords, and yes contrary to forum belief they could hack pike shafts as they did (omg what wood is weaker than steel NO WAI)



taken from that article-


"The Italian humanist historian Paulus Jovius writing in the early 1500s also described the two-hand great sword as being used by Swiss soldiers to chop the shafts of pikes at the battle of Fornovo in 1495"

"The fighting two-handed sword, weighed (on average) between 5-7 lbs. I give the following three examples, randomly chosen from our own collections, which I hope are adequate to make the point:

Two-handed sword, German, c.1550 (IX.926). Weight: 7 lb 6oz.

Two-handed sword, German, dated 1529 (IX.991). Weight: 5 lb 1oz.

Two-handed sword, Scottish, mid 16th century, (IX.926). Weight: 5 lb 10oz.


All your examples are way after the medieval period. 16th c. steelwork was much more refined then what smiths were capable of in the 10th c. I'm not saying that a sword couldn't cut through wood, I'm more concerned with the fact that many people here seem to be arguing about different eras of history. I remember hearing stories about giant claymores that the Scottish would drag behind them and then heave around, lopping off the legs and hacking into the chests of oncoming cavalry. Apparently the swords were too heavy to wield normally.

It seems like people here are arguing about 2h swords as if they're universally the same across multiple continents and spanning multiple centuries in which a lot of advancements in smithing was taking place. I'm sure there were many swords that were much heavier. For instance, many experts believe that the long axe was a much more effective weapon as it was faster (weighed less) and was more versitile in combat. But that's in the early middle ages. To go and compare a 10th c. long axe to a 16th century swiss longsword is ridiculous.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tears of Destiny on September 04, 2011, 07:14:48 am
Those are bullshit stories like the "used a crane to put an armoured knight on a horse."
There is no historical evidence of 20lb swords.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: FICO on September 04, 2011, 10:38:04 am
in medieval were, actually no twohanders :)
they appeared in renaissance. in medieval period the longest were battle longswords (cca from ground to armpit)

as for axe... it's not so wieldable as sword, lacks a bit defensieveness of sword, BUT it was easier to make, cheaper, you needed less pracice and it could "bypass" that era armour (padding + chainmail). if it don't bite into armour, well, than it can brake bones.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Vingnir the Wanderer on September 13, 2011, 08:45:53 am
Forgive me if I repeat anything said and acknowledged here already, but a few notes. I'm no expert, but, I have spent alittle time studying the subject.

I own a well crafted, 10th to 11th century viking sword repro that is 39 inches long, and has a blade of 32 3/4 inches. it weighs in at about 2 7/8 pounds. The balance point is about 7 inches up the blade from the guard. It can be a bear to handle, for any extended period, although I will admit, I'm not a massive guy. I am however somewhat athletic. I can do a seated military press of 175 pounds, and bench about 230-245. From the skeletal record, Scandinavian raiders of the time where on average about 5' 9", and I would imagine built like a hard worked farm hand with a leaner diet, coincidentally, this almost describes me to a tee. So my point to this description of myself, is that I am probably as large, and as strong, as your average Viking raider, which, according to the record,is significantly larger than the rest of the Western European population, for the most part - Thus I figure, I would assume, I'm probably a good model for what the average or slightly more than average western european soldier could handle, in terms of sword weights.

There is, no doubt, to researchers, that medieval/dark-age blades weight, has been grossly over-estimated.  But there are several factors at work here.

First of all, if you notice, 12th century and later blades, change in form - they taper towards the point more, and because of this, are much easier to handle for extended periods. Some have brought up the fact that this change in form was due to, singularly, an advance in understanding, and a need for thrusting at weak points in superior armor to that of the pre 12th century.. This is not completely true.

One thing that often is overlooked, is the PRACTICAL reality, of what your local blacksmith had as materials, and forging quality.

If you look at the historic record, many swords in northern/Western Europe, were made of scrap, and/or several rods of uneven, and questionable quality, twisted together, because of a lack of materials. The twisting technique however remained long after, and adds great strength, however, in pre-12th century europe, it was almost a necessity, just to keep the less than ideal materials, with a less than ideal temper, from breaking.

Also, tempering techniques, whether the knowledge was there or not, was most of the times not ideal.  what this means is, that swords where desinged often with less of a taper, and more actual metal because given material and temper, a taper would result in a sword breaking under stress.

If you will notice also, as we reach the 14th century, the taper and length of sword becomes more exagerated.  This is, basically, because the improvement in temper, teqnique, and available refined materials, was, better, AND a tapered blade, practically, is a superior tool.

Along with improved temper and material, the blacksmith could as noted earlier, now produce a two handed sword, with a blade thinner and more tapered blade, than a one handed 11th century sword.  Thus the 5-6 pound Greatsword that is found later at the end of the medieval period.  The fact that some Claymore's weigh in at 8 pounds, is more than likely due to the fact that the scottish were using Forges, and materials, that the more advanced civs had abandoned by the end of the 11th century.

My point however, is that, a one hander weighing 2.5-3 pounds, is at the upper end of practicality, unless it has an unusual amount of balance towards the handle, which is near impossible without a taper, and a taper, was not practical until after the 12th century, given materials, and temper common to the times.

An 8 pound Claymore, is yes, very possible, but not a result of practicality, but more likely a result of pre 12th century materials, forge, and forging techniques, in a 14th century and later setting, or a practical understanding that the 'smashing power of such a weighted blade, was as important as speed - Or an adaption since a 5 pounder was much harder to produce.

And indeed many two-handed/great swords did weigh in at 5 or 6 pounds, and sometimes even less.

And let me tell you, until you feel these weights in your own hand, and swing the thing around for 20 minutes, its hard to understand, that these are very significant weights to deal with, even if they sound rather low.

Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tears of Destiny on September 13, 2011, 06:36:38 pm
If any post ever needed a +1, the post above does. We should ask for that feature in this sub-forum.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Jarlek on September 13, 2011, 07:35:29 pm
If any post ever needed a +1, the post above does. We should ask for that feature in this sub-forum.
Agreed. That was a very nice and informative post.  3 reasons I didn't quote him directly is because of it's length, that I agree with ToD and because ToD is a cute bitch and I like to quote cute bitches xD
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 13, 2011, 07:37:17 pm
ToD avatar is a cute bitch, ToD on the other hand...
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Tears of Destiny on September 13, 2011, 07:43:58 pm
ToD avatar is a cute bitch, ToD on the other hand...
Quote from: Ramses
Get rid of the cute part and we are getting closer to the truth.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bija on September 13, 2011, 11:49:19 pm
Very nice post, Vingnir. I might add that a bench press of 230-245 for someone that's 5'9"(assuming you weigh between 145 and 170) is probably significantly more than your typical male around that time could do. It would also be natural to assume that their strength was more lower body/core-based, both from their genetic disposition and the way of life/how they worked.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Anwyl on September 13, 2011, 11:54:03 pm
And let me tell you, until you feel these weights in your own hand, and swing the thing around for 20 minutes, its hard to understand, that these are very significant weights to deal with, even if they sound rather low.

This is not taking into account muscle memory. I'm 5'5" and 106 pounds and I can practice/spar with my 3.5 pound longsword for well over 2 hours without getting tired. It is not so much that it is a "significant weight" as it is your body doing something it is not used to. Some muscles used during sparring are not used at all in everyday activities, but after building them up just a little bit, make an incredible difference in how you are able to wield a weapon.

Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 13, 2011, 11:55:53 pm
You are using 2 hands to spar with your longsword, you gotta take that in account as well.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Anwyl on September 14, 2011, 12:04:28 am
You are using 2 hands to spar with your longsword, you gotta take that in account as well.

I spar with:

2 handed Longsword (3.5 lbs)
1 handed Sidesword (2.25 lbs)
1 handed Dussack (3.5 lbs)
Glaive (8 lbs total - 7 lbs in the blade)

As well as a few others such as saber and rapier than really have little practical relevance here.

I will say easily that the first two or three times I sparred I was exhausted and couldn't move my arms, but after going through the motions a few times doesn't feel like it weighs anything. The exception to that being glaive, but I mean it's 7 lbs of steel on top of a 7 foot ash pole, no one gets used to that.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H7aXtzf7-Lk&feature=youtu.be
That is not a view of people horribly effected by the weight of their weapons. They are using Fechterspiel swords, which are about 4 pounds (theirs are built a bit heavier for sparring purposes).
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Vingnir the Wanderer on September 14, 2011, 01:01:45 am
Well thanks for the nice responses guys!

I actually agree with Anwyl, and Bija and dont claim to regularly work out with my sword.

Just to clarify, I'm built a little more solid than most people at 5' 9"  weighing in at about 170-175 and hovering around 10-12 percent body fat. 

I totally agree with Anwyl though... Ever go out and play a couple hours worth of aggresive tennis, after not doing so for a few years, and then feel the strain on your forearm the next day? And a tennis racket is pretty damned light - just imagine if it weighed 2 or three pounds lol.

I'd also add, though, that the viking sword that I own, is probably not as tapered or' 'handle balanced' as the swords you work out with, meaning the fulcrum affect of the sword, is probably a little more intense than most later medieval sparring swords. not only that, but the sword is rather long for a viking blade, where historically most came in at about 30 inches, and mine is 32 3/4. I think really, that this is probably, one of the biggest reasons once it was practical, why blade design began to taper more, because every warrior out there would probably tell you, that your own fatigue is your biggest enemy, just as it is in modern sports.

I also believe, as more learned students of the subject believe, that the viking sword generally is intended to be used with a shield, which would mean, alot more down time not swinging, and thus, 20 minutes of 'swinging it around' would practically with a shield, in a battle with engagement, blocking and rengagement, result in probably, atleast an hour of time before my arm would tire, and when your life was on the line, I would imagine you would just suck it up, overcome, and worry about it later hehehe. -Also when I said tired, I didnt mean 'so tired I couldnt be affective with it' Just, after 20 minutes, I could actually begin to feel a slight amount of muscle fatigue.  kinda like when your running a 10 mile race, and you start feeling things abit at 4 miles in.

I 'm actually pretty impressed with the knowledge that was here already, and it sounds like many of you are probably more knowledgable on practical sword use, and historical context than I am.

I just wanted to point out my personal experience, and that the taper and forge quality, probably have alot to do with whether a sword could be handled for a long time, regardless of weight, and that swords in general, have been misrepresented as heavier than they most likely where.

Thanks again though for the positive response, I've really enjoyed these forums when they turn to serious subjects, as the discussion seems pretty darned adult for a interwebz forum.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 14, 2011, 01:23:04 am
Hey Vingnir do you have a site with the specs of your sword?

Here's mine http://www.reliks.com/merchant.ihtml?pid=1559
I know there are better quality swords out there but this one seemed rather good for the price/quality ratio according to the few review I managed to find.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Vingnir the Wanderer on September 14, 2011, 01:44:14 am
Yeah: visitors can't see pics , please register or login


http://kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=DT2105

I purchased it at http://www.albion-swords.com/ and had them wheel/grind sharpen it, and build a scabbard for it, but looks like theyve gone into selling exclusively their own line now, I bought it about 6-7 years ago, and they were just moving towards this when I did. I would however highly recommend them, as thier service is great, and they are swordsmiths, not just sword sellers. If I purchased another blade, I would have to do my homework first, but I'd defenitely be looking at thier products.

To be quite honest, for practicality, I'd rather have yours.  I bought mine because of my heritage, but, if I were buying a practical blade, I'd go something like what you already have. And, I might add, there are more choices out there now, than when I bought mine.  Regardless of anything else though, you can be confident that a Del Tin, regardless of your opinion of them, is a consistent quality well built product, whether the particular model is balanced, or weight accurate, is a whole other question, ya just gotta search the reviews.

I learned quite a bit more about swords, AFTER i purchased this one. I kinda figured though, i might as well get something cool looking, because I wasnt looking for a sparring blade, and the chances of me getting into an extended battle with other people with sharpened blades, was probably pretty unlikely.  :lol: I had an edge put on it, and also purchased a hand made scabbard for it as well (beautifull job - the wood was water formed around my blade, lined with rabbit fur, and then stiched into an accurate cut leather cover, and outfitted with a simple brass 'tip cup') that I embellished a bit myself, that was made by the guys at Albion after they imported the sword from Del Tin, and sent along with the blade to me, all nicely packaged.

Del Tin, takes alot of flack for making some swords that are sometimes a bit heavier than they should be. (And that's very debatable - whether you want something historically accurate, or perfect to handle, may be 2 completely different catagories) And, on the other hand, some of their models are very hard to beat for the price.You just gotta research the individual model your thinking about. But this model in particular is lighter than some of their other viking models, (which I noticed when pondering the purchase) and well, pretty. Not only that, but there is no question on quality. I went with it, pretty much based on the price, and thier reputation for consistent quality. I didnt mind the brass guard, because, well its rather nice looking, and I doubt I'll be blocking any Steal blades with it anytime soon - plus, on viking swords, the guards bieng so small, they seem to me more of an afterthought or a balancer than an actual guard.

I did some research before buying it, and it seems to have a roughly historically accurate weight, even if 'historically accurate' doesnt mean ideal for use hehehe. - Dont get me wrong, its balanced alright, its just better for someone bigger and stronger than me, or someone that has the patience to work up to its heft.  More me making the wrong choice, than it bieng a bad sword.

If I were to do it all over, I probably would have went with a shorter blade from one of the newer companies, who make more practical blades like your own, or started to think about buying a hand made blade in the 1000+ range.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 14, 2011, 01:54:46 am
visitors can't see pics , please register or login


First sword I bought, its wall hanger, sure, but its a nice souvenir from a trip, I didnt knew shit about swords back then.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Vingnir the Wanderer on September 14, 2011, 02:11:00 am
Yeah, I've seen that blade I think before, in a cutlery store? I think before I got into research, I may have even thought about buying that one myself. Its a nice lookin piece.

Dont get me wrong about my Del-tin though, its pretty like a wall hanger, but, is a pretty damned good performer.  My brother who is 6' 1" and a big guy handles it quite a bit better than I do. I think I just chose the wrong 'practical' blade for myself, but in the right hands its as solid as almost anything out there. viking swords by their very nature, unless one of the shorter types, are unwieldy to an extent by their very nature.

The blade is quite nice, and the fittings are tight and of superior quality.  Its a full tang - non of that rat-tail crap, or welded screw, the pommel is actual peened on. The balance is pretty nice,  like I said, I think it has that 'wall hanger apeal' but also in the right hands, performs like the real thing.

And the brass guard, actually, is not totally historically inacurrate - like i said viking sword guards are more of a 'balancer' than a catching guard.  I think bronze is more accurate than brass though. -edit:- apparently the guard IS bronze, and the original description was wrong, so all the better! -This makes me actually feel much better about my sword :)

I just think for me, and my body type, a shorter or more tapered blade, would be more practical.

When I get some more free time, i'll see if I can dig up some posts on some of the better companies I've seen out there for blades - gotta get back to work   :lol:
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Vingnir the Wanderer on September 14, 2011, 02:20:09 am
I changed the picture link to my sword, the first one didnt do it justice, I guess you can still get the Del tins at Cult of Athena - the place that Anwyl mentioned - nice site!
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 14, 2011, 02:22:09 am
I got my own whetstone here but I asked Reliks to get my sword sharpened.
But there are some flaws on it, the metal that compose the pommel and the guard is crappy, rust too much despite the oil I apply :/
The sheath is full leather, it will ruin the blade if I leave the sword in it, got some nice wall fixing for the sword tho, so I got the storage part covered.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Anwyl on September 14, 2011, 02:24:29 am
Hanwai makes very affordable swords that preform pretty well, and Albions are definitely one of the most high class sword makers around, at least now-a-days. I use Kult of Athena for most of my weapon shopping as it is generally the lowest prices I've seen. Though always make sure to check a couple sources first before buying to make sure you get the best deal.

http://www.kultofathena.com/

If you're looking for weapons that will stand up to actual combat conditions (and even above combat conditions) I suggest looking at "stage combat" blades, they will be a bit meatier than the real thing, but they are built for sparring/durability.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 14, 2011, 02:26:27 am
Apparently I got lucky with my choice, thats one of the higher quality sword made by Windlass.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Vingnir the Wanderer on September 14, 2011, 04:18:05 am
Yeah, Windlass has gotten a bad reputation at times, but over the years, I've heard several of their models are actually quite good. And I've heard some horror stories, but my bet is they've improved since I was last shopping.  In the end though, You generally get what you pay for.

Truth be known, I have a feeling that some of the modern makers, probably make better blades than the originals hehehe.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Vingnir the Wanderer on September 14, 2011, 08:40:08 am
For anyone specifically interested in VIKING swords,  this is a great site on various aspects of combat etc: (just found this recently)

http://www.hurstwic.org/history/articles/manufacturing/text/viking_sword.htm

http://www.hurstwic.org/history/articles/manufacturing/text/the_shape_of_viking_combat.htm

http://www.hurstwic.org/viking/
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: FICO on September 14, 2011, 10:50:05 am
vingnir, you made some good points there, but i have something to add.
there are no "better swords" there are just "best" swords (it would be more proper to say weapon here)
what i mean... if vikings even knew better ways of forging and everything, they would make very same swords they made. against popular myth, there was no mass production. nobleman (or some very powerful warrior) would come to smith and say: "i want sword this long and it will look like this and it's gonna weight this. here you money enough to eat whole year, now get on work!". sword had it's purpose and it's owner had certain fighting style. if vikings knew how to make tapered sword, they possibly wouldn't make them tapered because it would "cramp their style".

in spoiler is my own experience which would more closely describe my opinion, so if you're interested - click
(click to show/hide)
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 14, 2011, 06:24:58 pm
I am not getting any sword for a while since I am broke as fuck and University began few weeks ago. Besides, I'd rather get a book about the combat technique with an arming sword rather anythign else.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Anwyl on September 14, 2011, 07:13:18 pm
I am not getting any sword for a while since I am broke as fuck and University began few weeks ago. Besides, I'd rather get a book about the combat technique with an arming sword rather anythign else.

If you just look for the I.33 Manual online I'm sure you can fine a free translation. That would give you a pretty accurate idea. The I.33 manual is a 13th century manual on sword and buckler technique and as far as I know the oldest western combat manual that has been found.
Title: Re: Weight of swords...
Post by: Bobthehero on September 14, 2011, 07:23:00 pm
Oh snap, I need a buckler now.
Thank you Anwyl, I'll check it out.

Edit: might as well link it for everyone http://freywild.ch/i33/i33en.html