Wooden practice weapons were able to withstand rough use while preserving the steel weapons for battles to come. A wooden sword is also useful for another reason; if it makes contact on another person they would not be badly injured, as they would if practicing with steel. This, combined with the obvious wear and tear that is saved on valuable steel blades, made wasters popular instruments for teaching fencing. Our practice weapons are hand crafted of solid, fully seasoned hardwood. With contrasting wood guard and pommel, they are strong enough to meet the needs of today's swordsman (or woman). Each can take the abuse of sparring and reenacting, even edge-to-edge. Keep in mind, however, that wood can break along the grain. This sword design represents edge weapons common from the 12th to 15th centuries. Made by NauticalMart Inc. Overall: 48-1/4" Blade: 37" long, 2" wide