This
new line of sparring swords has been designed by Swedish researcher,
author and swordsmith, Peter Johnsson to specifically fill
the need for sword types that look and handle like historical swords
but are safe to use in reenactment and stage combat.
It is Albion's mission with the Skirmish Line to provide sparring
swords that are traditionally constructed, sturdy and
safe, with a durable finish and a rugged, attractive
look. Perhaps most importantly, these models are designed to be
highly responsive and agile, just as the best of the authentic weapons
of the period. As with all sparring tools, these swords are designed
to be used with proper safety equipment.
Being intended for reenactment skirmish and the choreographed clash
of blades on the stage, these swords have demanded a slightly different
approach of the design than the Maestro Line training swords.
In film or a theatrical performance, the visual impact is of great
importance. An attractive and authentic period style, with a sense
of shape and detail is also central at gatherings of living history
enthusiasts.
To the actor in a dramatic duel or the participant of a reenacted
battle, the nature of the fight will probably be different from the
experience in the training hall of western martial art.
With these considerations, the swords of the Skirmish Line will still
represent specific sword types we recognize in examples through the
evolution of the sword.
All designs are based on hands on documentation and research of historical
originals. The shaping of the hilt components will be true to period
style and character of the originals.
The balance of these swords allows easy, precise and safe maneuvering.
The goal is to provide the feel of well balanced historical sword,
and at the same time to make allowance for the safety of the practitioners.
To have a sword that both looks exactly like a sharp historical sword,
and have it be safe in practice combat, is frankly not possible
-- a sparring sword needs to be designed along completely different
lines from the ground up. As a result, to make the sword safe to use
in regular practice, the outline of the sword must be different. Side
by side, a practice sword will have a slightly different silhouette
than its sharp counterpart, but it will have the same handling
characteristics. This is our philosophy behind producing a superior
-- and safe -- tool to use in the reenactment of historical combat,
demonstrating proper weight, proper length, and proper dynamic balance.
These swords are obviously not meant to take an edge or
to be used for test cutting -- the cross-section is designed to
attain a certain stiffness or flexibility and a safe blunt
edge. As a result, these swords will not be sharpened by Albion and
we would strongly discourage anyone from attempting to sharpen these
models after sale.
These swords are made to meet the demanding requirements of historical
reenactment and stage combat, built to endure years of hard use.
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