The hand-and-a-half sword is also referred to as a longsword, and the term ‘bastard sword’ itself is thought to derive from the French épée bâtarde — a name reflecting exactly this ambiguity between the single-handed and true two-handed categories. This example is based on a hybrid blade design dating to the mid-1400s: a fine steel blade with a half-length fuller, a diamond-shaped cross-section, and a sharp taper intended to punch through the weaker points of an armoured defence, particularly when the wielder shifted to a half-sword grip — gripping the blade itself with the off hand for extra control and leverage at close range. The hilt carries cast, up-curled quillons and a stylised scent-stopper pommel, both recognisable Late Medieval European hilt forms.
Deepeeka offers this piece as part of our core Medieval heritage range.
Use for:
– Medieval knightly living history and one/two-hand sword technique practice
– HEMA study of period longsword technique, including half-sword grip drills
– Museum-style display on a wall mount or stand
– Medieval-themed home decor and collections
– Historical events and Medieval fairs
– Film and theatre productions set in the 15th century
– Collectors of hand-and-a-half sword forms
