Moultrie, GA: In the middle of the last century, historian and collector Ewart Oakeshott created one of the most expansive systems for categorizing medieval swords that currently stands. Known as Oakeshott Typology, the system allows for a categorization of medieval swords based on size, shape, hilt design, and other features.

Anyone familiar with it knows that there is quite a great deal of variety not just in medieval swords but western swords and weapons in general. Over the centuries there has been quite a proliferation in the design and make of these implements, be they ceremonial or intended for use in battle.

In other words, a simple cruciform sword does not illustrate the depth and breadth of what sorts of sword patterns are out there, no matter how prevalent it may have been, or for how long. This is why collectors, historians, practitioners of Historical European Martial Arts, or just those interested in medieval weapons, should have a website like True Swords bookmarked.

They are one of the leading retail authorities on medieval swords and weapons, and their catalog contains numerous patterns with which collectors and historians might be familiar, such as basic cruciform swords, great swords, hand-and-a-half patterns, claymores, broadswords, and more.

What makes their catalog even more impressive is that it doesn’t end here. They carry sword and weapon patterns from other eras and parts of the globe, and their collection contains numerous instances of traditional Japanese swords, as well as Renaissance-inspired patterns, rapiers, cutlasses, hangers, and military swords such as sabers.

They also carry a number of other types of weapons, such as spears, axes, and polearms, in addition to fantasy swords that are perfect for collectors, fans of anime, cosplayers, and much more.

But, what makes their catalog truly impressive is the fact that they carry both battle-ready medieval swords as well as collectible wallhangers.

The latter are better for buyers on a budget that are not interested in live training with these weapons, but who need a realistic decorative sword replica to hang on a wall, hence the name.

As for their collections of battle-ready swords, these are made with suitable steel alloys that have been appropriately heat-treated and tempered, and which sport full-tang construction that is robust enough to handle live training.

There is only one way to do justice to their collection, and it is to see it firsthand. Visit their website via the link included here or get in touch with them at 1-800-735-3326 or at [email protected]. Whether you need a “real” sword or just a replica, it’s waiting for you on their website.