Darksword Armory Alexandria and Baron Sword Review First Impressions

[@darkswordarmory7564]

Hi Matt. Thank you so much for the review. I greatly appreciate you taking the time to do so. Greatly appreciated as always. Your objective insight and first hand knowledge allows us to take a step back, analyze and make improvements based on your comments. By the same token, Darksword Armory celebrated it’s 25 year anniversary in September. I would sincerely like to thank all our customers and fans. You guys make it possible for us to live off our passion and it is greatly appreciated and never taken for granted. Thank you ! I would also like to thank all our critics (yes, I am being serious). You guys push me to do better and make constant improvements. I thank you all. Eyal,

[@colbunkmust]

just a thought in regards to sharpness that would work at least with double edged swords; when doing the test cutting, you could sharpen and hone one of the edges to and leave the other from the factory to demonstrate the difference in performance from out of box sharpness to one with a proper edge.

[@scholagladiatoria]

Yes that's a good idea

[@alakhazom]

I always wondered if during history,they used to sharpen the two edges differently?One with a finer,delicate edge and another with a more robust one.

[@ollybowes7542]

@@alakhazom Skallagrim discussed this re: double-bitted axes, I think? Though that was more for woodcutting

[@tylerreinarts1213]

@@alakhazom there are some 11th century INGELRII swords on which one edge bevel is significantly more acute than the other.

[@garretisla5282]

I've heard the same thing about some double edged swords as well. That they would sharpen one edge fine, and one coarse, and the writer said that they would hold the coarse leading edge towards the enemy to help preserve the sword blade. He gave an example of some swords in the 11th century or something. It always made me wonder, and now this comment got me thinking about it again!

[@dantherpghero2885]

Ah. It must have been when I was younger. There was a time, boy, when I searched for steel, when steel meant more to me than gold or jewels. Thulsa Doom, Conan the Barbarian (1982).

[@freestatefellow]

Cool looking swords! I know review content is time consuming to film, but I'm still eagerly awaiting your full take on the Kingston Arms ATrim-designed hanger/cutlass.

[@scholagladiatoria]

Yes that's on my to-do list!

[@williamfawkes8379]

Yes, please.

[@MrJakedog104]

I love these extremely broad longswords. It's cool to see some competition for the Albion Principe

[@wildcat8985]

I Like the swords, but im on the edge for these unboxing stuff. Im actually looking forward to your review of Alexandria with a future review. Keep up the good work! *Short grey tall Weakling* super sir.

[@jm9371]

I am looking for a new kitchen knife. However, I don't think the Alexandria sword would fit in my dishwasher; I will go with shorter one.

[@NinjaHikage]

I was looking at the Alexandria on their website and thought it looked awesome, seeing it here in your video blew my mind, its so much more sword than i expected, and it makes me want to own one!

[@Matt_Romans116_Morris]

I'm more of a Smallsword/sabre guy but WOW! Those look really nice, Eagerly awaiting your cutting tests.

[@anonanon2841]

Wish we had Star Trek transporters so I could send you some Valiant Armoury blades to review. Great content as always, Matt!

[@stonedog5547]

Yesterday I watched Matt talking about what sort of weapons humans would use if they fought Orks (GW type, not LotR type) on a regular basis, he said that maybe swords would need to be bigger and more weighty in the cut. Today I see Matt holding that Alexandria...... Problem solved. Waiting for the cutting tests

[@FortuneFavoursTheBold]

Sorry to see DSA's recent models got lazy again on the distal tapering. They had been good on that front for a couple of years. Maybe they've got another contractor forge again? Anyway the Baron sword blade maybe is a type XXI blade? Those late 15th century swords are usually single-handed, but they do seem to have double fuller running all the way to the tip. Looking forward to your review(s) of these swords!

[@Greenmick6982]

Great review Matt! If and when you have destroyed the sword and no longer want to keep it in your collection for display, you might want to take a closer look at the internal mechanics of the tang, pommel, and grip. Historically, DSA has used epoxy where they should be hot peening their swords and their tangs are rather anemic, causing them to bounce around inside the grip. This flaw can be heralded by a distinctive "clicking" sound. Be listening for that as you cut and please exercise a modicum of caution when doing so so that you will not be hurt. Looking forward to more thoughts on these blade and others! Cheers.

[@mr.excalibur1455]

This is a very outdated theory regarding DSA's handle construction. I've seen your videos and the accompanying web pages that have been generated as a result. Both Matt Jensen as well as a NUMBER of much lesser known reviewers on KZbin as well as on message boards have noted that after DE-constructing DSA swords that the tangs are quite beefy!! As I'm sure you are aware ... some years ago DSA had a pretty bad problem with not one but two of their blacksmiths that were somehow passing off substandard tangs to fit handles on DSA swords. Now ... to fair this black spot goes both ways. Both smiths were let go .. however the damage to DSA's reputation in the swords community has been long lasting because this was splat all over the internet very early on. DSA does also have to take some responsibility here in having let those pieces squeak through quality control. However ... DSA HAS worked their way back with the quality of their swords in recent years and quite often also publishes pics showing the thickness of their tangs. Epoxy is still used to tighten up the all the pieces of the handle ... which btw is very historical. In medieval times smiths would often use black pitch to firm and tighten up the construction. You can see residue from the material, often, on historical examples. Often that black material you see on the the tangs of historical examples isn't a patina (although sometimes it is) or cleaned and oiled over rust (although sometimes it is) ... sometimes is that residue from the pitch that was intentionally put on there.

[@Greenmick6982]

​@@mr.excalibur1455 When they have earned a long-standing record of improving their sword quality and more than a handful of people are satisfied with the quality of their work and the honesty of their business practices, then they will reclaim an eminent place within the estimations of the members of the sword community. Until then, it is their own fault and only DSA fanbois are going to come out and defend them. It is still true that they make false claims about their countries of origin. Also, using epoxy on a sword that is being cut with against heavy targets and is subject to destructive testing is rubbish and in no way historical that I have ever heard of. Also, charging the prices they do for something that is inherently flawed, as many of their products are, is just rude. They're just not an honest or careful vendor and have, like I have said, earned the reputation they have. People still come onto FB forums and show examples of their shoddy practices and products. The truth isnt always pretty, but its still the truth.

[@mr.excalibur1455]

@@Greenmick6982 And thus the impasse between those that are objectively looking at what DSA is currently putting out today and what was generated a long time ago. We can agree to disagree ... that's what these forums are for and ultimately for the new prospective buyer to observe and weed through to find which argument is the more conclusive for them. After nine pieces and going on over four years of doing business I find Darksword Armory to be a sound product at that price range. Are there superior products? YES! And ... in my opinion ... you will pay MUCH more for them. Also ... just as side note I find the term "fanboy" to be rather demeaning ... inherently implying a blind faith in a product they presumably actually nothing about. That is not the case with me. Also ... if you are not aware of the multiple reviews that have come out from reputable reviewers that have all given overwhelmingly positive reviews of DSA pieces and shown how they are now being constructed ... I will risk slight insult here ... then you are way out of touch. People can SAY whatever they want ... but on KZbin they are showing what these pieces look like and can do. Also love this one ... and yes that was sarcasm "It is still true that they make false claims about their countries of origin." ... you are of course referring to the fallacy that the primary brand at DSA their 5160 bladed swords are actually made in China or India. I have heard and read all the arguments ... and your as well by the way ... they are at best circumstantial and at worst flat out falsehoods. There is so much evidence to counter that ridiculous claim ... its actually funny it's still being used. I won't dive down that rabbit whole as it will bounce back and forth between the two of us interminably. As to what they are charging ... DSA has situated themselves neatly in a mid-range category. I think THAT more then anything else is what disturbs people the most. But again ... something that can be batted around back and forth.

[@jaxrexalus6101]

I really want to buy the Alexandria like right now so please hurry with the review Mat! Albion's Principe has always been my holy grail sword, over their Alexandria, but I could never justify the price.

[@erichusayn]

Great first impressions. Been thinking about picking up their giant kriegsmesser...

[@dorianshepard2841]

I like to imagine Matt doing a lot of swearing off screen unwrapping those swords. Should have put up a cartoony "we'll be right back" or "technical difficulties" splash screen

[@ulflidsman3064]

Matt, can you please do a video about how you sharpen swords. I bought two Windlass swords after watching your reviews and they need sharpening.

[@GaelicMongrel2023]

Ooh the Type XVIII-C.

[@googlesword9209]

The baron has a more durable edge due to the double fullers but can't you get a hollow grind sword to also raise up near the edge for the same effect?

[@treeplanter-bv4gw]

probably to save on cost. Doing a hollow grind on such a narrow piece of steel would take a lot of care and time. I certainly wouldn't want to attempt it

[@sgregg5257]

My DSA longsword (Black Prince) is great. No complaints at all. The DSA Alexandria does have a longer handle than any Type XVIIIc that I have seen. They are heavy swords. I think the added handle is there to give better handling. The Ronin katana version of the Alexandria has HUGE blade presence and the edge geometry is not as good. Also the cast metal of the RK is NOT steel, and the pommel is too small. Though the overall length specs are closer to the originals. Between the RK and DSA XVIIIc, I think the DSA is an overall better sword and value. Also the tang on the DSA might be closer in thickness to the original, while the RK is on the thinner side. I love the RK sword too, it cuts great. Honestly mid-cost sword makers are really offering awesome weapons that come close to the high-cost makers.

[@mr.excalibur1455]

I agree whole heatedly. DSA's Black Prince ... FANTASTICALLY designed sword. I love mine ... makes a great sound and cuts very well. I also agree on your points on RK and DSA's Type 18C blades. First though ... have to admit ... I HATE type 18Cs!! I think they are over popularized garbage of a design ... thank you HEMA!! However ... I definitely would agree that overall DSA's design is better. One point that I would like to correct you on though ... RK Euro models, all of them btw, actually stainless steel for all their hilt/handle fittings ... and they do tend to be pretty durable.

[@andersbenke3596]

As a complete novice in sword matters, but yet very interested in such things, I had to double check if I heard correctly. I did not. It's scent stopper, it seems, not sense stopper. A shame. I imagine it being namned the latter, on account of the damage one could do up close with the pommel.

[@TaoistSwordsman]

You'd do alot more damage with the pommel from afar, by throwing it.

[@MatsJPB]

Gorgeous swords!

[@Adam_okaay]

That axe between the rapier and the scholagladitoria crest heater shield, that's new, what the dealeo with that? looks very fantasy, but I doubt it is if it's on your weapon wall, indian perhaps? Shall we get a video on that perhaps?

[@MasoTrumoi]

I think he's mentioned it in a video before. If I remember correctly it's an all-iron Indian war* axe, it's an antique original, and it's weighted especially towards the top. Matt mentioned it has a round grip so he's showed it in a few videos about grip for sure.

[@Adam_okaay]

@@MasoTrumoi vaguely rings a bell. Don't know why I'd forget.

[@elijahoconnell]

the baron looks amazing

[@wendigo1619]

Pretty pretty swords i love broad bladed weapons like the Alexandria, the Baron has a nice look to it as well

[@thebenforever]

That Alexandria gives off real "It's dangerous to go alone. Take this." energy. Also, as a long time kriegsmesser fan, that the Alexandria blade has bewitched me is very confusing to me. Lol. Might have to reconsider my life.

[@DoingMoreKustoms]

Been thinking about making that sword.

[@caseydubois3645]

The Alexandria reminds me of the Albion Principe

[@tylerrobbins8311]

Both are based on the same sword and are XVIIIC swords.

[@erichusayn]

@@tylerrobbins8311 beat me to it...

[@TheZeroSbr]

There's also an Albion Alexandria.

[@erichusayn]

@@TheZeroSbr and one by ronin katana

[@joshuafair5599]

Darksword seems to attract all sorts of controversy. I have a 3rd-generation Black Prince sword from them. I picked that one because it seems to consistently get the best reviews of all their models. It's not the most accurate replica of the original, being notably longer and having a hollow ground blade profile (a feature only seen on XVa longswords a century later!), but it is pretty well put together and handles quite nicely, especially for such a long blade. It will be interesting to see how well some of their other "historically-inspired" models handle...

[@benjaminstevens4468]

It kinda looks like there is denting or a bend about halfway up the blade around of the Alexandria, probably just a smudge or something, or maybe where the rate of distal taper changes?

[@zenhydra]

Distal taper is something one might expect from a sword actually made in Canada, by people who allegedly know anything about proper sword construction.

[@MasoTrumoi]

Darksword is kinda notorious for overlooking design flaws and inconsistent quality. Many people also argue they "steal" designs but I'm not so sure that should hold up as a concept in crafting professions.

[@mpsmith47304]

@@MasoTrumoi They are also notorious for claiming their swords are "made in Canada" when they all they do is assemble parts from China.

[@ColdNapalm42]

@@MasoTrumoi Umm...on MyArmoury, Eyal ADMITTED that one of their viking sword design was stolen from Jodi Samson. There isn't really an argument that he steal designs when he ADMITS to it. Anyone who claims he does not at this point is a complete shill for DSA.

[@edwardhartley6038]

Hi Matt - trying to import a sword that I won at auction from South Africa and encountering all sorts of issues. Are you available for a brief word of advice? Many thanks, a fan!

[@zenhydra]

@Matt (scholagladiatoria) I know you don't do the kind of destructive testing that Matt Jenson is known for, but please put these Darksword Armory blades through significant stress testing. They have historically had a terrible reputation for shoddy hilt construction, and people should be aware if there are any inherent dangers to using these things as anything other than overpriced wall hangers.

[@scholagladiatoria]

I will do. I did put the last two Hanwei swords I tested to relatively rough cutting tests and both of them developed loose guards during just that short testing. In contrast, the Windlass I have tested all held up great.

[@LokiCDK]

The Baron is so pretty!

[@custodianvrael6471]

How about the german Katzbalger's double/ triple fuller running ver close to the tip.

[@donmac7774]

I would imagine that the extreme profile taper lessens the need for any distal taper. Is the tip reinforced?

[@emm_arr]

I think a comically fast unwrapping from a celing-mounted camera would be good viewing. Benny Hill music if you can do it wuthout copyright issues would also be good. You think I'm joking? I might be!

[@evanjames575]

Reviews are great 👍

[@salavat294]

The Alexandria style sword, the lack of distal taper might be compensated by the breadth taper.

[@frankharr9466]

Huh. I look forward to the cutting video.

[@zenhydra]

@3:49 +1 Name Drop point

[@markfergerson2145]

I'm going to guess the Baron has minimal distal taper to give the tip more strength.

[@crominion6045]

The Alexandria is definitely the Crocodile Dundee knife of swords. "That's not a sword.......THIS is a sword (pulls out Alexandria)!" 😄

[@Guilherme-qx9iz]

Second? Amazing swords, why are the hilts so long?

[@caseydubois3645]

Probably because a longer hilt equals greater leverage.

[@MarieCrossbow]

Back in my day, when you went raiding you could barely fit a single hand on the hilt of a sword. You youngsters have it good these days.

[@Guilherme-qx9iz]

@@MarieCrossbow you were one of those brutes who pillaged Lindsfarne? With your tiny hilts?

[@joanignasi91]

Funny that it kinda looks like a stretched out cinquedea.

[@Adam_okaay]

I had the same thought. And when he mentioned it likely being Italian I was like "of course it is."

[@jellekastelein7316]

Like a cinquedea grew up and started working out. A lot.

[@tombearclaw]

Both of those blades make me think of the Sword of Boromir, which also is like an oversized Cinquedea

[@skrimper]

@@tombearclaw isn't that the guy from the hobbit movies

[@jaroslawwalczak2855]

I saw this kind of sword. "Dracula" by Coppola.

[@chrisfields8077]

The profile taper looks off for the Alexandria as well compared to originals, at least the ones I've seen in person. Hilt is definitely longer.

[@nickdavis5420]

I’ve been interested in darksword for the doge as Albion has stopped one of that kind and even though I live my Albion one it has a lot of flex which shocked me .

[@-Honeybee]

Interesting that it's got such a broad cross-section. I wonder how it cuts differently across its length.

[@VideoMask93]

If Skall’s similarly-proportioned “Principe” is any indication, it probably cuts like a beast.

[@lalli8152]

I wonder if they were intended as sort of thing Matt has talked about falchions. Slicing up lightly armoured people basicly. They are popular today for people to use tatami cutting competitions, but they also have very delicate looking edges, but that makes them slice like beasts.

[@Nimno74]

I like the Baron. I looked through the Darksword website to see if they had anything I liked better, and the only one that stood out to me was a fantasy reproduction, the Ranger, which has a similar hilt and cross guard style....I guess I like that generic longsword look.

[@jeremiahsmith7924]

Watch Matt Jensen destroy The Baron, it holds up better than even the Zombie Tools Zakisashi... I absolutely love the XVIIIC blades, like the Alexandria, and I like DSA's version the most because of the longer hilt, but I am considering The Baron instead simply because it's so much more durable than everything else. It will never be a great cutter due to the blade geometry, which is what was sacrificed for the durable build

[@Robert399]

When the Alexandria was still in the scabbard, I thought: ooh that's nice The moment you drew it out: 😬 no thanks

[@charles2703]

Why? I’m looking to buy a higher end sword, what was wrong with this one?

[@Robert399]

@@charles2703 Nothing. I just think the blade shape is hideous.

[@charles2703]

@@Robert399 But looks well made?

[@Robert399]

@@charles2703 I don't know.

[@charles2703]

Oh

[@Chabal117]

I have the Ronin Katana version and the handle is alot smaller. It is the size of the actual handle of the original which makes me feel better about it but I have giant mittens.

[@scholagladiatoria]

How much does that one weigh? This one is over weight, as well as having an elongated hilt.

[@Chabal117]

@@scholagladiatoria it is a bit clunky, 3 lbs 6 oz. But it is the best cutting sword I've ever handled. There is no secondary bevel so it's like a Lazer!

[@scholagladiatoria]

Then it is close to the originals. This DSA version weighs 4.2 lbs, which is really overweight for the type.

[@Chabal117]

@@scholagladiatoria I can recommend it at it's price range. With the grip at 8 inches, I think it would be perfect for someone with average hands. Love the videos, man.

[@arthurclaymore4995]

Question, that I think it would be fun to watch you answer: You are a young commander, charged with making harassment raids on an enemy. You will be in charge of raw recruits and have only a very short time to train them. The Armory is all out of weapons, except for swords, the armory still has all types of swords. What type of swords would you give to poorly trained recruits who will have to learn fast?

[@MrBottlecapBill]

Wait.........someone in Canada actually manufactures stuff? You have my attention..........

[@spacewater7]

These are the kinds of swords I'd give as coerced tribute. Not great, not really practical, but they look cool.

[@Ne0spartan]

The baron reminds me of Striders sword from the Lotr movies.

[@DETHMOKIL]

Man that's a long grip on the alexandria, certainly looks longer than the one in the Met.

[@coronal2207]

That grip is so long!

[@scholagladiatoria]

Yes, too long compared to the originals.

[@jaxrexalus6101]

Albion's Principe exists for good reason.

[@ulflidsman3064]

Shipping, tax and customs takes away all the joy for a Swedish sword lover. I have to add about 40% to the price… 😔

[@jaxrexalus6101]

Still would cost less than the Albion lol

[@theworldofnexttuesday2802]

Alexandria makes me think of the nail from hollow knight.

[@krassos]

Start sword themed youtube channel get people to send you swords. Wish I would have thought of that.

[@HoJu1989]

That Alexandria looks a little like my Brescia but on steroids :p.

[@d-w-b-c]

10:14 "this one is peed"

[@ravenhill_of_midsummer_1968]

i only have about 20 swords, most of em are long swords.

[@MasoTrumoi]

"only"

[@ColdNapalm42]

The trouble with DSA review swords is that they go beyond just cherry picking swords...which is already bad enough. They will legit make an entire custom piece to send off for reviews so what customers get isn't want reviewers get. Basically, I have exactly zero percent belief in anything DSA.

[@mr.excalibur1455]

Seriously dude ... don't you get tired of just waiting for one of these guys to say something nice about DSA and saying you standard "DSA is trash" MEH!!! OKOKOK ... I'll give you one on the Alexandria sword. There have been reviews of it before that were NOT flattering ... and one of them was a reviewer who got a FREE SAMPLE ... UH OH!! There goes your theory about reviewers getting "special" samples. But the Barron?? Have you sampled one? I'll tell ya ... those hand and a half sword are really where these guys shine. The longer blade weapons ... kinda hit and miss. Though ... I have heard VERY good things about their Black Prince model. Keep and open mind man! Unless ... you ARE actually one of those disgruntled blacksmiths they fired...? Eh? Or perhaps you have an issue with owner that extends beyond his business practices and beyond simple customer DIS-satisfaction? In which case ... ok.

[@ColdNapalm42]

@@mr.excalibur1455 Dude, if a DSA free sample sword gets a bad review, just imagine how bad what normal customers actually get. I was actually involved with a DSA project and the sword they sent for reviews for that project was NOTHING like what you got as a customer. The swords that were sold to customers were so far below what we got for review (which wasn't even all that GOOD mind you...just not terrible)...it was a flat out scam that I was unwittingly a part of. So...yeah from that experience, I will never trust ANYTHING from DSA ever again when they send out a sword for review. I won't even accept if you buy it as a well known reviewer. They have been shown to be so shady, that the only way I will say you got a normal customer sword is if Matt had somebody ELSE...somebody unknown...buy it for review. That longsword that Matt gushes about from them...I have actually held and swung that around that somebody around here bought as a normal customer and yeah...we ain't talking about the same sword...at all. Also note that the owner of DSA has ADMITTED that he STOLE at least one of his designs from other makers...namely Jodi Samson...and many others are also suspect. So forgive me if I don't accept what somebody like that claims happened with no actual PROOF it did when he threw those "blacksmiths" under the bus. There isn't even proof he HAS blacksmiths and he isn't just a cutler assembling the swords in Canada...or if he even does that little. The video "proof" of his forge is a guy hammering a cold piece of metal on an anvil in a room with nothing else related to a forge. Finally, many collectors and cutting party members around me get DSA swords...despite repeated warning by many of us not to...and none of them are what I would consider good swords. They are better than when they first started for sure...but they also cost more than when they first started. I can get the Albion Squire line of swords for what they costs which are functionally MUCH better weapons. If I needed something that looks fancy, Del Tin has some nice options...but if you want looks, just get a wall hanger that looks pretty. If you want a real weapon, get an Albion Squire line. If you want something that does a poor job at both...get the DSA. As for their daggers...that gets even worse. I can get WONDERFUL daggers from Tod's cutler store that costs LESS than their dagger shipped to me from ENGLAND that not only look MILES better than the DSA stuff, but work as weapons oh so much better as well. And neither Del Tin, Albion or Tod have you know...lied about their stuff and been caught red handed doing so. Or stolen from other knife and sword makers and admitted it flat out. Or have it be in question that they even HAVE a forge because the provided proof of one in such a laughable manner. And that not even going into the what is minor for them of lying about the historically accuracy of their designs. When false advertising is a MINOR offense compared to all the other shady things you have done...yeah...I'm gonna say that is a problem.

[@mr.excalibur1455]

@@ColdNapalm42 This being the internet there is no way to present any truly empirical evidence to controvert your beliefs / opinions regarding DSA swords. True. You say "I was actually involved with a DSA project and the sword they sent for reviews for that project was NOTHING like what you got as a customer" ... this would seem to suggest you at least have some insider information regarding DSA. By admitting you have this information it would lend some credence to my theory that you may be one of the two blacksmith that were fired by DSA. The next statement you made here where you say "So forgive me if I don't accept what somebody like that claims happened with no actual PROOF it did when he threw those "blacksmiths" under the bus." The bitter tone here also suggests a connection with that incident. More evidence? Perhaps ... though I'll admit nothing concrete. Another bit of a litmus test to your theory would be the Excalibur sword I bought from them. Your claim of the fact that "I won't even accept if you buy it as a well known reviewer." ... first thank you for the title of "well known reviewer"... didn't realize just over 500 subs qualifies as well known ... but I'll take it. Second ... at the time I BOUGHT that sword I literally had made only 10 other videos ... most of them were older examples from my existing collection at the time. So, if they were giving me a "reviewer's sample" at THAT point? ... then they were being VERY generous. Its actually one of the best made DSA models I've ever gotten. Durable, VERY sharp ... scabbard had a little rattle ... still not bad AT ALL for only around $600. As far as him "stealing" designs from Jody Sampson ... this is simply laughable!! If there were designs that were stolen then DSA has definitely put their own spin on them to the point where they are unrecognizable as copies. This is an art form ... and mimicry is the best form of flattery. Albion, Arms & Armor, and Del Tin are all very stylized in their own way ... and DSA has really set itself apart in that regard especially with their own fit and finish. NONE of DSA's swords resemble directly a unique design by Albion. Oh ... wait a minute ... Albion doesn't have any unique designs ... they COPY them all from historical examples. Well so does DSA!! So if they are looking at the same historical examples and coming out with models that are in fact similar ... OF COURSE their going to look similar. However, DSA also admits to putting their own unique spin on their designs. Why not? I'm looking at their 15th Century Hand and A Half sword ... my favorite piece as of today. That sword is modeled after a blade type that typically didn't have a fuller. DSA put one in. That's what makes it not historical? ... give me a brake. Fullers never went away. But just like everything else they were a style that faded for a while. Now here's another gripe I have about you Albion fanboys / lets shit on DSA guys ... DSA has been dragged through the mud and put through the ringer as far has a demand for proof workmanship is concerned. Where has that level of scrutiny been for Albion, Arms & Armor, and Del Tin? Where are their how-its-made videos. Oh wait ... there is ONE!! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hJ7SlKh-ipWIiLs You brought up the subject of the historicity of these swords. It doesn't bother you that both Albion and Arms N' Armor both make their blades using CNC machines and stock removal versus DSA who actually DO forge all their swords? It doesn't bother you that Albion ADMITTEDLY casts their hilts and pommels? Typically cast furniture has proved to be very brittle. Its actually one the few gripes I have with DSA. They claim its mild steal ... which should bend ... but instead when Matt Jensen bashed one of their hilts ... it didn't bend ... it snapped. But ... here Albion is ADMITTING to that practice ... and n'er a word of criticism was heard. I wonder why that is. Folks are willing to bash and brake DSA swords ... but when it come to their precious Albions ... no no no no ... we can't have that. We daren't brake one of the holy Albions. So ... I will say it again and again and again ... DSA ... good for your money. Tough. Attractive. Well made. I've bought all mine. Issues with some were dealt with immediately and professionally. Good products. Good service. Reviewer or not ... that's what I call good business.

[@ColdNapalm42]

@@mr.excalibur1455 When people were claiming that DSA didn't have a forge, they could have literally done NOTHING and it would have been better than them all but proving that they don't with that ridiculous video they put out. DSA once again does NOT HAVE BLACKSMITHS. They are a cutler at BEST. If you claim they have blacksmiths after that video, you are at BEST a paid shill. The movie Excalibur sword I will admit is one of the swords that I could see getting from DSA. The Albion version is stupidly more expensive and looks wise, the cheaper wall hanger ones don't look that good...okay they are terrible. So that I can see if that is the sword you REALLY want. The other one is their Black Prince one. Basically the cheaper options are all bloody awful and after that you are spending like triple the amount for better feel and actually worse looks for display since A&A doesn't do a mirror polish on the blade. But this is once again strictly for display purposes. Their black prince feels nice enough to swing around, but the harmonics on the sword is utter rubbish. Yes yes, those narrow XVa are not supposed to be really good at cutting...but they are still CUT and thrust swords meant to be swung around. And it should not be hurting all the way to your elbow to hit rather light targets like a pumpkin. The Albion XVa like the Agincourt or the A&A Black Prince has no such issues. As for Eyal stealing designs...he FLAT OUT SAID HE STOLE A DESIGN on MyArmoury forum. This isn't speculation or saying oh that looks similar...this was him saying HE BLOODY DID IT. When one of the swords he made looked an awful lot like an Albion sword, I actually defended him on that one because the changes from the sword that it was based on all made sense for both Albion and DSA to make from a cost cutting stand point (make the pommel 8 sided instead 10 and make it a single fuller instead of dual...or triple...I forget exactly). Eyal in a rant went off about how one of his sword started off as a custom piece that a customer wanted made to replicate a Samson piece...which that alone is shady AF and he should not have even done that...but he than took that customer sword and made it into a production sword. So...yeah no, not speculation...he literally did this according to himself. NO EXCUSE on this...the man is an admitted thief. He quickly shut up and removed the sword for sale once he realized how stupid he had been. If you don't think DSA casts their fitting while there are many...MANY proven examples that shows that they do casts their parts and while you even give an example of it being suspect that it is cast...than I have no idea what to say to that other than paid shill...at best. DSA says a lot of things...but they have a proven record of that being lies. DSA casts their parts but claims otherwise. Albion and A&A tell you they cast parts straight up. Was the fact that DSA lies about not casting their parts supposed to be a plus on their side? No really...WTF. As for the historical accuracy of their marketing...their Viscount sword claims it to be made conceptually from sword parts that were from the 13th and 14th century...which is already MILES better than their old advertisement that claimed swords with ricassos were typical swords of the Crusades era. They claim the parts are from various swords of that era to make it seem like it is common for that era. But lets have a look at that shall we? The blade looks to be a type XIIa blade which fits the 13th well...but by the 14th, that is kinda pushing it...but sure, that isn't too bad. Except that the type XIIa blade is a diamond cross section instead of a lenticular cross section. Well...that most certainly isn't common. The pommel is a scent stopper which was common starting the mid 14th so that makes it within the range of the later part of the claimed dates...but even if the type XIIa blade was made correctly, that pommel and blade design would be not really typical as the advert might be tying to lead you to believe. Than there is the crossguard...from Highlander. A lot of their new designs are fine however...but things like this is still an issue...but like I said, it really is minor compared to some of their other issues. So...do you have actual high end swords at all or are the classic DSA fanboi who has nothing but DSA and claim these clunker of swords are what real swords are supposed to be like? I take Matt's word that the sword that he got from DSA for review feels better than an Albion he has of similar design. But having held that same DSA sword bought by a normal customer and comparing it an Albion Regent...yeah...no...the sword he got for review is not what my friend got as a normal customer.

[@mr.excalibur1455]

@@ColdNapalm42 #1 - "If you claim they have blacksmiths after that video, you are at BEST a paid shill." I too can point to eye witness accounts that have seen their facilities and have seen not one but SIX different forges ... thus their ability to produce as much as they do. You have your facts which you cannot corroborate ... and I have mine so ... that's a wash. #2- The Excalibur sword ... just can say enough about it. The Black Prince on the other hand ... buddy!! ... you are WAY off on this one. If you've actually handled one ... GREAT! I'm actually interested in getting one. A&A shinned me on when I asked about getting one from them ... so piss on them. Now on the other hand ... there have been A LOT of peeps on sword forums who have live the much less expensive Legacy Arms version. I actually would like to do a side by side comparison between the two. Also ... there has been a A LOT of good reviews of the DSA version and how it handles. #4- I know some of DSA's stuff is cast ... it kinda pisses me off that they claim otherwise. However, I am learning that that is on a model by model basis. Some have cast pieces others are mild steel ... LIKE THEY ARE ALL SUPPOSED TO BE!! Personally I find RK Euro line's stainless steel hilts to a good idea and have born out to be very tough!! #3- If Eyal ACTUALLY owned up to that and said he stole it ... OK. Don't really care. If he ended up getting rid the model that he made ... guys human ... makes mistakes. It really is a non-issue for me. If that makes me a "... a paid shill." Sure ... ok. I'll wear that mantle if I must. I wish I was paid by DSA ... that's be COOL!! But ... for the record ... I'm not. #4- Historicity of their swords. Yes ... they make a lot of claims about what they are based on. True. They look damn fine to me. If you can't find and exact copy of their Two Handed Templar in the private armory of Lord Hamburger in the land of Ubberland ... well damn! Does that mean it never existed ... NO! I will also give Albion and A&A MAD props for doing their homework so meticulously ... and you PAY FOR IT TOO!! OMG!! #5- Do I have any high end swords? If by that do you mean do I have any Albion or A&A ... no ... and probably won't. I have never claimed to be a SERIOUS collector. No. If anything I would classify myself as a semi-casual sword enthusiast who has ... I think it safe to say ... extensively dabbled in both European and Japanese sword fighting arts ... much more Japanese most recently. Just bought my first $1G-ish katana. I don't believe in paying more then a $1g for what amounts to a historical anachronism ... just to then destroy it by using it for what it was designed to do. I simply don't have that kind of money to burn. The European swords I have owned and have handled have been DSA, Ronin Katana, Cold Steel, Legacy Arms, a house brand out of Kult of Athena that I can't remember right now and several others including stage weapons from both Salamander Armory and Baltimore Knife & Sword. I've contacted Valiant Armory about getting a couple of their models ... and they shined me on just like A&A ... so piss on 'em as well. I suppose one day I will yield and get an Albion or perhaps try yet again to get one from A&A.

[@Zaeyrus]

For the Algorithm!

[@somecooney5304]

look heavy

[@mpsmith47304]

The grip is WAY too long compared the original "Alexandria" XVIIIc's.

[@TheLordArion]

Ducks over the armory

[@gonorrheadischarges3021]

Pinned pummel?...oh shit...

[@CaptainBogroll]

Clive Thomas has only researched medieval swords 20 years old? I hate to break this to him but he’s probably been had

[@MorbidEel]

I think this is the first time where my first impression of a sword is "I hate it". Something about the combination of dimension gives off a repulsive feeling to me.

[@lalli8152]

If you mean the Alexandria i agree theres something about that sword. I have never really liked that type aesthetically, but this particular one looks odd. Maybe its the too long hilt compared to originals makes the proportions wonky.

[@GentlemansCombatives]

Thiccc sword

[@tylerrobbins8311]

Dang I'm early

[@mitcharcher7528]

I dunno, Matt. Some of us might want to listen to the grunting.

[@Justice-ian]

The first (Type 18C, IIRC?) sword does seem "crazy", and not at all in a good way (no disrespect intended to the manufacturer, who is reproducing an original). It looks like a child's drawing of a sword, i.e. designed with no comprehension of blade mechanics (or manufacturability). It's odd to think that it dates from a period when swords had been among the dominant weapons of war for centuries, and should presumably reflect the culmination of countless practical lessons-learned. At the risk of over-generalizing, narrow blades thrust better and broad blades cut better, right? On the plus side, this one is plenty pointy for thrusting. On the other hand, it couldn't be nearly as nimble a thruster as a rapier or similar because of its breadth; yet places that breadth at a part of the blade one will never cut with. Also, in an era without machines, forging a parallel-sided bar and then giving it a point and edges would be so much easier than trying to forge something that's tapered along its entire length. So, it seems, they expended MORE effort to make a LESS effective blade. Why?

[@breaden4381]

Darksword: sends reusable bags Also Darksword: wraps swords in non recyclable plastic

[@heimdalshorn]

...the hilt is way too long, that is a big minus. The original hilts of this type of sword are surprisingly short for such a big sword for one and a half hands. It infringes the look very much. Albion did a much better job with their Alexandria. The Barons hilt is also too long for this type of sword and the length of the blade. It is such a stupid trend by some modern sword-makers to make this unhistoric overlong hilts - why on earth (you can also find this problem on many "reproductions" of japanese katanas).....

[@jaxrexalus6101]

Albion's Principe exists for a reason. The longer hilt gives more leverage, especially when crossing wrists. It's also nice for people with large hands or maybe if wearing mitts or gauntlets.

[@MaliciousMollusc]

Reminds me of Chinese cleavers...

[@blakeherrington2464]

First!

[@尚雪龙]

yan chi dao

[@emarsk77]

I find those loooong double fullers quite ugly, to be honest.

[@hunterwolfe6295]

lol fit on the guard is good? we are talking about Darksword Armory? they have terribly fitted guards. that's already a red flag. that sword was given special love for the views

[@scholagladiatoria]

Of all the Darksword sword guards I have seen personally, the fit was okay on all of them. Not great, but not terrible. Kind of average. It could certainly be a lot better in this price range.

[@hunterwolfe6295]

I will say the finish is dramatically different too. I don’t see on the website to get that satin finish.

[@ethankendall9499]

Lots of grunting, hard work, quite the "unwrapping", not very good content? Pornhub would disagree.

[@尚雪龙]

yan ling dao

[@notanotherswordreviewchann4901]

DSA is trash 🗑️

[@mr.excalibur1455]

Mr. Excalibur: Look Mommy ... another DSA naysayer Mommy: Oh never mind him dear. He's just angry that his swords didn't come out the way they should have. Mr. Excalibur: But Mommy ... he didn't have anything to say about THIS sword. Mommy: I know ... he's just grumpy. Like said ... never you mind. No seriously dude ... don't you get tired of just waiting for one of these guys to say something nice about DSA and saying you standard "DSA is trash" MEH!!! OKOKOK ... I'll give you one on the Alexandria sword. There have been reviews of it before that were NOT flattering ... and one of them was somebody who got a FREE SAMPLE ... UH OH!! There goes your theory about reviewers getting "special" samples. But the Barron?? Have you sampled one? I'll tell ya ... those hand and a half sword are really where these guys shine. The longer blade weapons ... kinda hit and miss. Though ... I have heard VERY good things about their Black Prince model. Keep and open mind man! Unless ... you ARE actually one of those disgruntled blacksmiths they fired...? Eh? Or perhaps you have an issue with owner that extends beyond his business practices and beyond simple customer DIS-satisfaction? In which case ... ok.