Bastard Swords
Around the mid-1400s, the bastard sword was developed as a form of the longsword. Originating from the French term epee batarde, medieval bastard swords included a number of blades with irregular or not easily defined traits. For example, many had longer handles that allowed them to be wielded with one or two hands. This versatile usage eventually led to an alternate term, Hand and a Half sword, in the late 19th century since bastard swords could not clearly be defined as one-handed or two-handed weapons. Bastard swords often had slightly shorter blades and more rounded tips than other longswords. Knights and other armsmen continued to use traditional bastard swords through the 1500s. Here at Buying a Sword, we carry an excellent assortment of historical bastard sword replicas. We offer both functional swords and decorative swords, ensuring that re-enactors and collectors will be satisfied with pieces from our selection. These fantastic medieval swords are crafted with authenticity in mind and attention to proper dimensions and weight.