Measurements
length: 49 1/2"
blade: 38"
blade width: 2"
grip and pommel: 11"
guard: 9 1/4"
weight: 3 lb 10 oz

This is the blunt / practice / training / theatrical combat version of the German longsword. Hanwei call this the Practical German Bastard sword, but you and I and everyone else reading this knows that longsword is the correct term. I'm really really really excited that this blunt verion is coming out, and I can tell you why in two words: grip length. Most longswords have a grip length around 7" to 9" - the grip and pommel length on the Practical German is 11". I rather like the leverage that comes from a longer grip, and I'm guessing that many of you do, too. The 38" of blade sure is a nice feature, too. Okay, so we're up to four words: "grip length" and "blade length". (No, that doesn't count as five words). This sword is perfect for tall and/or long-armed fighters and will be appreciated by all connoisseurs of reach and leverage.

Here's what Hanwei has to say about this sword:
"This reenactment version of our Bastard sword has been produced in response to requests from the reenactment community. The blade is forged in 5160 high-carbon steel, to minimize burring, and the trans-verse thickness of the guard has been increased, both to provide adequate strength for re-enactment use and to present a safer profile at the ends of the guard. Another innovation is the provision of an all-leather scabbard, in contrast with the rigid scabbards normally provided with our Practical swords - this is designed both to provide an extra margin of safety when combatants fall on the scabbard in battle and also to minimze the need for replacement scabbards. The sword is supplied with the grip and scabbard in a neutral-colored leather to allow customization to the owners taste."

I do not have these in stock yet, but the folks at CAS Hanwei tell me that my first shipment of Pratical German longswords will be arriving in April (2010). I'm psyched. Are you psyched? Pre-order one (or more!) today!