12-29-08
It is with the deepest regret that we announce the passing of legendary swordmaker, Jody Samson, on Saturday, December 27, in his shop in New Glarus, Wisconsin. Jody was a true friend, a multi-talented artist, and one of the most generous people you could ever meet. He will be deeply missed.

11-26-08
Zorro Rides Again -
To Wisconsin
Albion Swords Ltd., LLC, signed a six-year licensing deal this week with Zorro Productions, Inc. to become the official swordmaker for the legendary franchise.

11-25-08
Last-Minute Gift Ideas
These swords are available for Holiday delivery on a first-come-first-served basis:
Bayeux
Burgundian
Caithness
Duke
Hersir
Hospitaller
Huskarl
Jarl
Laird
Landgraf
Prince (steel pommel)
Senlac
Sherriff

2-21-08
The Arn Swords Are Now Avaliable
The swords and daggers designed by Peter Johnsson and made by Albion for the Swedish epic film
Arn The Knight Templar are now being offered through Albion Europe and Filmswords.com.


1-30-08
Next Generation Swords Update
We have just completed the prototype of the Oakeshott Medieval Sword.


1-8-08
Next Generation Swords Update
The prototype for the Burgundian Sword has been completed.


1-4-08
Next Generation Swords Update
The prototype for the Machiavelli Sword has been completed.


12-26-07
Next Generation Swords Update
The prototype of the Knud Viking Sword has been completed!


12-10-07
Next Generation Swords Update

The prototype of the Doge Venetian Sword has been completed.

12-07-07
Next Generation Swords Update

The prototype of the Valkyrja Viking sword has been completed.

11-20-07

Our Best Wishes for a
Happy and Prosperous Holiday Season
to all of our
Friends and Customers,
from all of us here at Albion!
And, since its that time of year again - for anyone who hasn't read co-founder Howy's Christmas Story, here it is once again.

10-31-07
Albion On TV
Albion will be featured on an episode of "How Its Made" on the Discovery/Science Channel, this Friday, November 2nd at 9pm EST (8pm Central). (How It's Made Season 4, Episode 8: Swords, Pontoons, Grandfather Clocks, Fuses)

10-18-07
Congratulations to Soren and Albion Europe for a wildly successful first year of operations!

9-4-07
Next Generation Update
We have finished the prototype of the Kern Irish Type XIX.


7-3-07
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the prototypes for the Condottiere and the Stamford swords.


6-5-07
Next Generation Swords Update
We have added four new sword models to the Next Generation line. Go here for more information.

5-31-07
Maestro Line Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the I:33 practice sword. (it will be "debuted" at the Atlanta Blade Show).

5-25-07
Next Generation Line Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Knecht kriegsmesser (it will be "debuted" at the Atlanta Blade Show).


5-3-07
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Ringeck Sword.


4-10-07
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Fiore Sword.

3-30-07
Maestro Line Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Meyer practice sword.

3-08-07
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the first prototypes of the Munich Sword.


11-20-06
Maestro Line Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Liechtenauer practice sword

11-16-06
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Chieftain Scottish Claymore


11-6-06
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Earl


9-21-06
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Vassal Falchion


9-13-06
Next Generation Swords Update
We have completed the first prototype of the Kingmaker sword


see more news here

12-22-08
...Good Day Mike and Everyone at Albion,
Since my fencing days at college, I have harbored a dream to obtain an authentic, serviceable reproduction medieval sword and learn how to wield it.
Back in September, after doing a lot of reading and research on available options, I ordered the Baron as a step towards fulfilling that dream. While counting the days until it would arrive, I was enticed by Albion’s 10th anniversary sale. It seemed like a good time to “double-down” and use the discount on a Museum Line model, so I ordered the Brescia Spadona as a thrusting-oriented companion to the cleaving Baron.
The excitement of ordering the second sword took my mind off of the wait for a couple of days, but every day I would crane my neck to see if a long, slender box had been delivered. I was reckoning with 12 weeks, but hoping for sooner. Meanwhile, I had several of the known medieval texts to keep me busy working out a practice regimen for the acquisitions. I even picked up a first edition of The Sword in the Age of Chivalry. And then things began to happen much sooner than I had anticipated. Suddenly there was a white box at the door. To my amazement, I could feel that the white box contained a wooden crate signaling that the Brescia had arrived first. I resisted the temptation to rip into the package willy-nilly, and savored every bit of the excitement. First seeing the elegant wooden crate with the Albion logo branded into the sides, then sliding back the cover and seeing that elegant weapon suspended carefully and artfully within; it was like being transported back in time.
I only wish that I had the presence of mind at the time to photograph it before I removed it from the crate; but alas, I could not wait to finally hold it in my hands.
Only then did I truly appreciate what I had read elsewhere, that these pieces are not mere reproductions, but are indeed recreations.
The fit and finish are superb, but not so mechanically perfect that one cannot sense that human hands have played a significant role in the sword’s creation. The geometry of the blade is impressive with all of its nuances from the wide base to the complex reinforced point, from the fuller out to the edges with the secondary bevel. Although it is not a light piece, it moves effortlessly with incredible balance, and with phenomenal point control. The wicked pommel, the impressive wide guard, the cutting edges, the point; there are so many highly developed offensive options that one senses that this sword perhaps represents a time that saw the apex of medieval sword development before the dawning of the age of the rapier.
I could not put it down for hours, completely spellbound.
Days later came the question in the back of my mind: would the Baron’s arrival be anticlimactic?
Now that it has just arrived, I can emphatically aver that it was not in the least anticlimactic. There was nothing holding me back this time from ripping open the package and seizing the prize inside, which was in its own way quite fulfilling. The quality, fit, and finish is every bit as good as the Brescia. The price differential between the two is likely accounted for by the relative complexity of the Brescia’s blade and no doubt by the research and engineering it took to recreate it.
The fact that it is an exacting recreation of an existing historical example adds to the sense of satisfaction and makes it worth every penny. However, there is no apparent difference in the quality of the finished product between the Museum Line and the Next Generation line and that speaks for your overall commitment to quality.
The elegant austerity and impressive dimensions of the Baron demand attention. It feels, and is indeed slightly heavier than its companion, and it is not quite as quick in the hands as the Brescia; but, it was never intended to be. Everything about it screams cleaving and dismemberment. Nonetheless, its somewhat rounded point is surely nothing to be trifled with either.
Brandishing one and then the other drives home the fact that these pieces have their own individual life and character. I look forward to exploring their respective nuances.
Thanks to everyone at Albion for creating quality recreations in a price category between lesser, essentially useless reproductions and completely hand-made, high-end custom pieces that are vastly less affordable.
With the Brescia and Baron in my possession, I am only now beginning to grasp what a sword truly is in a way that modern fencing could never completely convey.
My only regret is that I put off fulfilling the dream, and did not find Albion sooner.
My apologies if I rambled on here a bit, but I did want to make sure that you all knew how utterly satisfied I am with both purchases. Something tells me that they will not be my last acquisitions: perhaps a Type X, or a XA….???
Best Regards,
-- Steve S.

11-18-08
...I took delivery of my Brescia Spadona last Friday. It arrived unblemished and sported the usual benchmark workmanship.
I have had the opportunity to play with it during the weekend and I can only say that the praise heaped upon it in the other testimonials is well deserved. This must be the ultimate 15th century sword.
The handling and balance are simply superb and the looks are breathtakeing.
This is another sword to which the catalog pictures do not do justice.
To see her "in the flesh" is simply a revelation. I hung her on the white washed chimney/firewall in my livingroom and the decorative effect was stunning. The white background seems to bring out every little detail in her shape and silouette. Actually the effect was so good that I have reserved a space on the chimney/firewall on the ground floor for my Maximilian when it arrives.
These dramatic looking swords really shine on a rustic background. To say that I am thrilled would be the understatement of the century.
Mike, as you know I am an avid fan of the NG line. However there is a special feeling when the sword is an exact recreation of a well known historical weapon. It gives me at least, a feeling of reliving history and that is what the Museum Line is all about. I have this feeling with my Tritonia, Solingen and St. Maurice, but it is extra strong with the Brescia. As a result I will arrange future holiday plans or business trips to include some time with the originals, starting with the Tritonia as this is in Stockholm and quite close.
Well my friend, give my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in her construction. Again Albion has created a winner. In hoc signo vinces
-- Reiny

10-22-08
... Dear Mike & the Team:
Massive thanks from Down Under!
The Talhoffer arrived at my desk in a large white box, and with it came a level of excitement that I don't often get when the delivery guy arrives - heck, the whole office was excited; everyone wanted to get the feel of a real sword! And so I welcome my first sharp. It is a beauty - aesthetically, I love the diamond cross-section of the blade, and the black wasted grip has a very powerful look to it. This is a very intimidating sword, every bit as inspiring as I expected. In the hand, I find that it has an aggressive feel, it loves to move forward, and its' point is very threatening! From assistance with my order, to the payment plan you helped to set up, and finally the production, detail and delivery of this latest Albion sword that I now proudly call my own, I am blown away by your service. No where else does it like you.
Period.
I look forward to growing my family of Albion swords again real soon. Regards,
-- Brock S

10-20-08
...The Crecy and scabbard arrived about a week ago - much quicker than expected! - and they have fulfilled my dreams completely. I have been burning for a 'real' sword since the age of 6...and the Crecy type XVIa is exactly what I was looking for, a perfect cut and thrust combo bastard sword. Over the years I have looked at the cold steel hand and a half, as well as a number of other companies and models, but it wasn't until I really looked and found the Albion site that I realized there actually was a company that produced historical, durable, beautiful swords at non-custom prices. I wasn't ready to settle for something with a rat tail tang or other poor construction, so you can imagine that I've been drooling over a number of Albion models for the past few years. When the money became available, and I had vowed in the winter of '07 to have a sword by the next autumn, the Crecy was the first on the list. I am absolutely stunned by the sword, and have spent many hours out in the fields around my house swinging it about, taking in the autumn sights, sounds and smells with it at my side. I express my deepest thanks to all of you at Albion for producing such a wonderful work of deadly beauty (the scabbard is really nice too!). Deepest regards,
-- Abe Z.

10-14-08
...Hey Mike, I think you guys are letting the rest of the entire world down, and I can’t keep quiet about it. That’s right, it is YOUR FAULT that the Global Economy is in the pits right now, and it’s time you take full responsibility and solve the problem. Here is the Macro-Economic Picture you guys have been trying to keep us in the dark about. The Economy is nothing more than the sum total of all the actions taken by all of its participants. We have growth when the sum of the participants actions are positive, bold, powerful, like warriors slaying their enemies. We have reduction in the economy when formally strong heroes start wimping out, taking a negative attitude, flinching and ducking when they should be attacking. THEREFORE, when Albion Swords FAILS to sell enough glory weapons from the past, or merely FAILS to convert enough critical new heroes into the purchase of their first Economic Excalibur Sword, symbolic of the Economic Power of the Sword Owner, then the greater economy goes to the dogs. I repeat, Mike, it’s your fault. You’re not selling enough swords to us. So, what are you going to do about it? Your raging customer,
-- Pasquale

...I was happily surprised this past Wednesday to receive my Doge on my doorstep. I'm not sure what I was expecting from the sword, but I think it'd be safe to say that it exceeded whatever expectations I had. The sword feels very light and quick; almost as quick as my rapier, to be honest, and slightly better-balanced. I haven't tried cutting targets with it yet, but it's very controllable in thrusts and lunges. I'm very pleased with this sword, and would be very happy to recommend it to people, especially those looking for a transitional blade.
- Darryl A

10-6-08
...Man I have to tell you, you guys just out do yourselves every time. I must have had at least ten of your swords go through my hands so far and even the ones that I didn't think I would like are so flawlessly done that you just cant help but sit back and admire them. Some I've kept, and some have gone on to better homes, but each one exhibited it's own unique flare and handled as you'd imagine an antique would have in it's day. The Squire you've done for me is no exception. The lines are crisp and the handling, well let's just say I tore though my saved cutting targets in about a half hour. Really a wonderful sword in every way you could ask for. The only reason I could see for calling this one a Squire is that the name Knight was already taken.Thanks again for exceeding my expectations every time. Now I can't wait for the Munich :-)
- Mike

9-24-08
...Mike, my friend. I really do not know what has happened. I have gotten many Albion swords in the past (at last count 56 ea) and they have mostly been excellent. What gripes I could have are only cosmetic and minor at that, and buddy the complaints have been far and few between. However, as you probably understood from my last post I was really extatic about the latest shipment. It could be that the joy of getting 4 blades at once blew my hard disk, but I think not. Their execution were as I said earlier flawless, but that is nothing new. I think that what really struck me was the historical timespread the swords represent, and to get them all at the same time was just like a perfect time capsule. Buddy, I get a Gladius, I get the Ulvbane sword from my favorite film (I admit to watching it again with the Arn sword to my left and the Ulvbane to the right - yes my friend I am that childish, and besides in my batchelor digs the little lady has no say). Then it was the Constable and the perfect Solingen. Buddy, at this rate I must soon use the outside walls to display my blades (only joking, I would never do that to an Albion). My friend, I ask you in ernest. What other company could have delivered such a time capsule and of such quality. In my book the answer is simple - no one. I have said it ad nauseaum but I risk it again. Cudos to the whole Albion team and buy them and yourself some cake. I will even let you to charge me for it on the bill for the Munich. Semper Fi
- Reiny

9-11-08
...I received the latest sharp pointy thingie. Stunning. It is everything I expected and more. I have to agree with several other statements I have read from other customers, the pictures do not do them justice. When you actually hold the sword in your hand and can feel it as well as see it in the light the differences from a picture are phenomenal. Strangely I get a 'warm fuzzy feeling' which is odd considering I am holding a weapon. The craftsmanship and design are truly beautiful. This just goes to show you what one of My Anthropology professors once said about our ancestors. These individuals were top craftsmen in their field and were working at the cutting edge of known technology at the time. I have done research on ancient cultures for various class papers and theses and fully understand the time and work required to get the proportions and feel correct. Best wishes to all the craftspeople working there and a hart felt thank you for their hard work. I frankly do not believe that most people appreciate what kind of concentrated attention to detail is required to produce something of this quality. It has been said that the proof is in the details. Your products show this. Besides, when all is said and done, in spite of being a job. this is My idea of fun and the satisfaction of making something as close to perfection as possible must be incredible. The eastern craftsmen are said to have been continually trying for perfection, this just shows that people who do this work are the same regardless of what local they are living in.
- Tom S

8-27-08
...I apologize for being a couple months late with this - but who could blame me for that? I was busy with a couple of amazing training tools that I had a hard time setting down long enough to get my fingers to a keyboard to type this out. I ordered one of your Liechtenauers and my roommate ordered a Meyer. They are both astounding swords and literally leave me wanting for nothing! Refined and Rugged at the same time - even the much lighter feeling Meyer holds up to steel-on-steel training beautifully. As for the liechtenauer... well let's just say I use it as much as I can, but I didn't fully appreciate how well made it was until, and this is gonna sound strange, I was in a duel. A friend of mine is an avid SCA fighter, and throughout the debates we had it was eventually decided that we were to fight. He used a blunt steel baskethilt sword and a (very large) shield. I was confident going in with just my trusty Liechtenauer. The (cough)gentleman I was fighting weighs in at around 220lbs and is almost pure muscle - and he hits hard(my bruises are evidence of that). But the Liechtenauer took everything he threw without so much as flinching. Throughout the course of our fighting - which lasted well over a solid, almost completely uninterrupted hour, it was struck with such force that the sword almost flew out of my hands more than once. At times, when quarters got close, the blade of this sword got wedged between this piece of armor or that, and the the ground, his shield, and all our limbs didn't make it easy for the poor sword either. This wasn't your grandmom's light pulled sparring either - this was all out, anything goes, fighting. But - It took it all and was, at the end of the day - the least beat up out of all of us. I can personally attest to the pure strength and solidity of this training sword - and it does this with wonderful management of heft and weight. It's such a wonderful and powerful feeling that doesn't float like a fairy like the meyer - but rather moves with an effortless but solid power. If the meyer is like a cheetah(like lightning), then this sword is easily analogous to a Lion - Fast and Graceful still, but with a Power and Authority that's simply remarkable. I cannot say enough good about this sword. Please keep up the good work. I'm not terribly rich, so the chance to order swords from you is not an opportunity I get very often - but rest assured you will get future business from me, and I will continue to recommend you to all I know who may be interested.
- Adam

10-26-08
...I'm not sure where my love of the sword developed, but where it lead was a white box about four feet long and a foot and a half wide with "RUSH DELIVERY" taped on its side. Opening the box and pulling out my Albion Steward, a steeled beauty that holds the light like a fireflies of a summer night, made me feel a bit like Arthur pulling the Sword from the Stone, like I had never held anything as magnificent before and probably would not again. You must forgive the obvious, clichéd allusion, but there are reasons why the great allusions become overused, the sources from where clichés draw their power. I wanted to thank especially the guys at Albion (and especially Mike) for this along with my sincerest apologies that this well deserved note of praise is so late. The workmanship could not be better, the angles and geometry are spot on and the lines crisp and without flaw. Holding the sword put all the great pictures on your site and myarmoury.com I've seen to shame with its precision and detail. As my first (and unfortunately, probably me last for a long period) sword purchase, I was calling Albion quite frequently with questions/ to check on the status of the blade, and Mike was never aggravated but was in fact cheerful to hear from this nut calling with clocklike regularity. He was always patient and had obvious enthusiasm for satisfying the childhood dreams of Albion's clients. Again, this note of thanks could not be more deserving or late. I always wanted to wait for when I could put down my sincerest thoughts and thanks, and the time just got away from me (an unforgivable year). So, now, I want to say thank you to everyone at Albion, the reason why the greats are great. All my best,
- Cory L

7-23-08
…And Mike. As I walk around my home and let my eyes feast on my Albion swords and as I take them in hand to do some cutting I can honestly say that nothing I have ever bought has given me the same value and pleasure, dollar for dollar. It is really something in this day and age to deal with a company so dedicated to quality and so uncompromising in its pusuit of it. Cudos to all of you! Semper Fi
- Reiny

7-17-08
... Just a quickie to tell you that my Sempach has arrived. It is simply superb and far more detailed than you can see from the catalogue pictures.
Execution is as usual flawless and it arrived safe and sound.
The basic design did not hold many surprises as I already own the Landgraf, but I must say that the pommel lends itself better to a two handed grip.
Again a splendid piece of weaponry. Well done all of you!
With regards to the price increase, let me just say that I think you guys held off for a long time and that should be respected. I will gladly pay the extra 11% on future purchases. Your swords are easily worth that and more.
Have a splendid week my friend and thank you again for an excellent blade. Semper Fi.
-- Reiny

6-23-08
...I received my Prince the other day, and I'm astounded by the precision and beauty of it.
It is truly a magnificent sword, and is now the center piece of my collection.
It is so well balanced, and it is absolutely a joy to wield.
I give a big thanks to the crew at Albion!
To top things off you were courteous and prompt throughout the whole process, and you delivered much earlier than expected.
Kudos to you Mike.
-- Brian

6-9-08
...I bruised my shin today.
I couldn't clear my dining table with a jump as I scrambled frantically for the door when I heard that UPS had just brought a long white box.
And I blame You.
I embarrassed myself as I almost wet myself in excitement in front of the delivery man, because even though all the testimonials on your site routinely say you deliver up to a month early, I didn't expect my Gallowglass 6 weeks early.
Yup, all on you, buddy.
Later, I cut up a lot of the stuff in my room because I couldn't help it, not with that damned fine sword in my hands.
I blame all of you at Albion.
Some might argue that's it's totally irresponsible and illogical to blame you guys.
Let me address that point with a simple question: 'Why does Albion have to be so damned good?'
-- Chris C

4-18-08
...My Baron arrived yesterday and it is absolutely perfect! And a month early!
I love the way the oxblood grip looks! Especially in the sunlight we had a little of yesterday.
You know, you can look at all the pictures you want to and read all the reviews you can find, but untill you get one of these massive pieces of artwork in your hands you just can't appreciate the quality you all put into these swords.
I was going to say "your" swords, but this one is mine and its going to stay that way.
I wont go into the distal taper, point of percussion, center of balance and all the other wizardry that makes this blade the war horse that it is - all that has been said many times over and it's all true.
If anybody doubts this,do send them my way and I'll happily add my vote for you.
What I want to do, is to extend my gratitude and appreciation to you, Mike. For being the professional that you are, for answering my inquieries promptly and for not using any "smoke and mirrors" when dealing with me.
And to Howy and Amy for creating Albion, for putting us first -- no price increases this year will serve as one example -- and for hiring good people.
And to all those in the cutlery department, the blade department, the machine operators and programmers, those who do the leather work, to Roger for his woodworking talents, the casting of the pommel and guard, the packaging and shipping.
Forgive me because I don't know their names to give them mention. I'll trust you to do that for me if you will.
And to Peter Johnsson for his gift and caring.
Just a second, Mike, I'm going to grab a tissue to wipe my eyes.
Sorry, man, ...just allergies.
But I do want to thank each and every one of you there for doing what you so well.
So, in the immortal words of the great governor of the state of California: "I'll be back!" Thanks all,
--Ron M.

4-15-08
...I want to send a note of thanks to you and the Albion team for an outstanding sword.
The Liechtenauer is fantastic - although I am a novice swordsman, I have taken to the Liechtenauer in a way I didn't think possible.
It feels good in the hand, lively, and just an overall joy to practice with.
In pell work the sword feels beyond solid - it really becomes an extension of the swordsman.
I think the design and execution of this sword are superb - I really like Peter Johnson's approach with the fuller - it is a great design that achieves the performance of a sharp blade of the same proportions while delivering the safety of a blunt.
Albion's choice to wrap the hilt with a cord grip works very well for me because it feels good in the hand, is tough, and works great when wet.
The pommel and guard are different than the NG line in terms of finish - the stainless steel giving it an almost antiqued look and feel - and the effect on the aesthetics of the sword are very positive.
I would have to say the Liechtenauer is my new best friend!
Thanks again for the great products and service.
-- Jody A.

3-19-08
...Just picked up the Landgraf this afternoon, and I’m absolutely rapt.
Such a thing of beauty and so full of character as soon as you pick it up.
It’s my first ‘proper’ sword and I couldn’t be happier.
My thanks to yourself and all the team at Albion, it’s been a great experience dealing with you from start to finish.
I look forward to adding to my Albion collection later in the year – I’m thinking of ‘Discerner.’
A very satisfied customer.
-- Mickael C.
(Go Packers!)

3-18-08
...First [The Doge] arrived Thursday evening just as predicted (and like 6+ weeks earlier than originally scheduled!), thanks for that.
Second, I admit that I have very high expectations, particularly for a 'premium' item. And I've had a few slight disappointments recently from other sword producers.
However, I'd have to say that the Doge exceeded my already high expectations, a very rare occurrence for me!
The hilt and blade are as fine as I was expecting, their design is a big reason I purchased the Doge.
I was surprised by the pommel, a 'dynamic' design that is very impressive in-person. Also the fine cord underneath the leather grip is a nice touch (I really like the oxblood grip color, thanks for the recommendation!).
The execution of the blade, hilt, and overall assembly seem to be flawless, and again I can be very picky!
And the Doge feels great in the hand, very natural balance.
So, you have gained yet another very satisfied customer! And I will certainly tell my sword collecting friends about my Albion sword and the great purchasing experience.
But I also now have a problem: can I be patient or will I have to purchase another Albion while I await the Dane? And which one?!
-- Kevin

3-5-08
...It's been crazy the last week so I haven't been able to thank you and the rest of the team at Albion for an amazing sword!!!
Taking my Landgraf out of the box reminds me again of just how beautiful your swords look "in-the-steel" - no matter how nice the pictures online!!
The tapering and the polygonal cross section of the Landgraf present this visual image of 'light and wispy' yet when you hold the sword and move it around, you feel the strength and rigidity of the blade. It's a wonderfully inspired contradiction.
I am also quite impressed with the balance and handling. They are amazing and so nice that I am able to handle the sword both single or double handed with ease.
And as an ex-foil fencer, I find the tip control on the Landgraf to be quite nice and 'user friendly'.
I am glad that you all at Albion have taking on this labor of love to provide these historical re-creations for us. I continue to be impressed and amazed at the phenomenal level of craftsmanship and quality found in your swords.
Simply Amazing!!!!!!!!!! Thank you!!
-- George

2-25-08
... I received my example of The Oakeshott on Wednesday, February 6, just as you promised. I apologize for not writing until now, but I wanted to experience the sword for a while before commenting upon it.
I cannot claim to have any expertise in the area of medieval armory, and my only previous extended relationship with a "real" sword has been with a Grand Army of the Republic parade saber, a family heirloom which was never meant to be wielded in the heat of combat.
With that disclaimer out of the way, I must say that I find what you and your compatriots at Albion Armorers have accomplished to be remarkable.
The Oakeshott is a wonderful thing in its own right: it feels perfectly balanced to me, the grip is completely comfortable and secure in my hand, I can place the point anywhere I like with the greatest of ease and, most of all, I marvel at how such a flexible and lightweight piece of steel could be engineered so as to be obviously capable of inflicting extraordinary damage upon a target (though I have never, nor will I likely ever, test that capability).
I have always been fascinated by European medieval warfare, and have long wanted to own a sword of a type and craftsmanship that would have been appropriate for use by a medieval knight.
I am happy that I waited so long to purchase such a sword and that I was lucky enough to discover Albion Armorers to fulfill my dream.
The Oakeshott is all that I ever wanted in a sword.
Kudos to Peter Johnsson for designing The Oakeshott, and to everyone at the Albion shop who was involved in its construction.
And thank you for all your help, Mike. You made the process a pleasure.
Take care, Dude.
-- Ray

2-15-08
Boy, was I pleasantly surprised yesterday!
As usual, the Valkyria arrived in record time.
This one's one of your best, guys!
I know your swords keep getting better because every time I open a new box I say, "this one's my new favorite".
Keep up the good work!
-- Eric


see more testimonials here