The Albion Next Generation Norman Sword is considered an Oakeshott Type Xa sword. A well defined and long fuller is one of the criteria for this type of sword. Type Xa swords are cousins of their Viking age predecessors but are generally of greater length. Most swords of type Xa are found in the high medieval period and this Norman sword could be contemporary to the Battle of Hastings or be in use a century later. The Norman’s blade tapers straight to a point section that is about a third of the length. The subtle curving in the point on this long and handsome blade results in a graceful overall appearance. An Oakeshott style 1 cross with a gentle arc and a disc pommel of type G makes this sword a good example of the swords used by Norman warriors and their contemporaries — not ostentatious, yet brutally efficient like the warriors who bore them.
The Albion Next Generation Norman Sword is hand-ground from high carbon steel to a fine satin finish, sharpened and heat-treated by hand in the Albion Forge Shop. The grip is of stabilized birch, wrapped with cord and covered with the highest grade vegetable-tanned calfskin.
Albion’s premium, heirloom quality swords are some of the best available worldwide. Each limited edition Albion sword is made by hand, one sword at a time, by a group of the most talented blademakers and cutlers in the world. Albion swords are made entirely in America of the highest quality materials — but with a distinctly European flair — starting with painstaking research of period originals and exacting design work by noted Swedish swordsmith, author and researcher, Peter Johnsson. No detail is too small to replicate faithfully. Each sword is hand-made to order with time-proven traditional construction and no shortcuts or compromises, with the time and attention of a master craftsman. Even though swords are no longer used in warfare, Albion still makes each sword as though your life depended upon it.
Ryan (verified owner) –
Excellent balance, truly does feel like an extension of one’s arm. Simple but handsome appearance, very light and responsive. If you’re looking for a high middle ages arming sword you can’t do much better then the norman.