The Arming Sword which is commonly referred to as the Knight’s or Knightly Sword is a type of Ancient Fortified Sword used in the latter middle ages. It is a type of Cruciform Sword that is made to be used with just one hand. For those of you who aren’t aware of a Cruciform it just means that it was shaped like the cross. This weapon was used the most from around 1000 to 1350 A.D., however, it was still being used as a Battle Weapon until 1600 or so A.D. but after 1350 it was rarely used.

As mentioned before the Hilt or handle was Cruciform Shaped with a Pommel. The Arming Sword was a descenent of the Viking Sword, which is a type of spatha used by the Greeks. This weapon was typically made to be employed with a shield or buckler. A bucker is an old school shield troops of the ancient days went to battle with. It’s about 6-18 inches and has a perfectly round shape, often decorated with beautiful artwork on the front.

The Knights used this Ancient Fortified Sword as their Standard Military Weapon. Along with many other combat swords it was also commonly referred to as a “War Sword”. Eventually, this weapon became outdated in place of the Longsword around 1300 A.D. because of technological advances. When shields weren’t available, troops often used their left hand for grabbing and grappling their enemies, while their sword was used in their right hand. Overall this weapon was light, and was great for both cutting and thrusting. It also has great balance.

Arming Swords are generally defined as weapons that are made to be used in one and and that are sharp on both sides and that their primary objective was to cut an opponent rather than to stab them. Historically these weapons were available in lengths anywhere from 23 to 39 inches long. The later models were manufactured longer and heavier than the older ones. This redesign would allow the weapon to inflict bodily injury easier through heavier enemy armour. And with a narrower blade, it would be possible to pierce their armour as well.