Hanwei Early Medieval Sword “ALDRIC” – Sharpened Oakeshott Type XII
The early medieval sword “ALDRIC” belongs to a series of seven swords designed by Michael “Tinker” Pearce for Hanwei. The range was developed to combine historical inspiration, functionality, performance and excellent handling. The blades are made from 5160 spring steel, Tinker's preferred steel for this series.
To meet the different requirements of Western sword practitioners, each sword in the Tinker series was developed in both sharpened and blunt versions. The corresponding variants were designed to retain very similar handling characteristics. In the case of this early medieval sword, the sharpened and blunt versions are specifically designed to handle identically.
The 5160 spring steel receives careful heat treatment through a marquenching process and reaches a Rockwell hardness of approximately 50–52 HRC. This produces a balanced combination of strength and flexibility. On the sharpened blades, the treatment provides increased edge stability, while on the blunt versions it helps prevent burr formation and provides the necessary flexibility at the point.
“ALDRIC” follows the form of an Oakeshott Type XII sword and is offered here with a sharpened blade. Its fuller extends for approximately one third of the blade. Beyond this section, the blade transitions into a flattened diamond-shaped cross-section towards the point.
The blunt version of the same sword uses a broad, shallow fuller instead. This shifts more of the blade's mass towards the edges, allowing the blunt construction to provide the required safety characteristics without significantly changing the feel of the sword. Despite the different blade geometry, the sharpened and blunt versions therefore retain virtually identical handling.
One of the defining features of Tinker's designs is the replaceable blade construction. Rather than being permanently assembled, “ALDRIC” can be disassembled. Tinker's special mounting system uses internal-hex sleeve nuts, allowing the hilt to be released with an Allen key and securely reassembled afterwards. This enables a suitably experienced user to replace the blade when required.
This mounting system is used on the longswords, bastard swords and early medieval swords within the Tinker series. It combines comparatively straightforward blade replacement with a securely fastened hilt construction.
The cross-shaped hilt combines a classic medieval appearance with functional handling. A leather-wrapped scabbard is also included, completing the overall presentation of the sword.
With its sharpened blade, “ALDRIC” is primarily intended for collectors of functional and historically inspired swords. It can also complement historical portrayals, reenactment and living history as well as photography, film and stage productions. This sharpened version is not intended for reenactment or stage combat.
Details
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Type: Early medieval sword
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Classification: Oakeshott Type XII
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Manufacturer: Hanwei
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Design: Michael “Tinker” Pearce
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Version: Sharpened blade
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Blade material: 5160 spring steel / carbon steel, not stainless
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Heat treatment: Marquenching
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Rockwell hardness: approx. 50–52 HRC
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Blade geometry: Fuller extending approximately one third of the blade, transitioning into a flattened diamond-shaped cross-section towards the point
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Construction: Disassemblable with replaceable blade
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Mounting system: Internal-hex sleeve nuts
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Overall length: approx. 98 cm
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Blade length: approx. 81 cm
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Grip length: approx. 17 cm
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Hilt: Cross-shaped design
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Weight: approx. 1134 g
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Scabbard: Leather-wrapped scabbard included
The stated dimensions, weight and other specifications may vary slightly from sword to sword.
About the Tinker Construction
The sharpened and blunt versions of this early medieval sword were designed to provide identical handling characteristics. Tinker's special mounting system allows a suitably experienced user to replace the blade. This model is the sharpened version and is not a reenactment combat sword.
Care Instructions
The 5160 spring steel used for the blade is not stainless and may develop signs of corrosion when exposed to moisture. Keep the blade clean and dry after use and regularly apply a thin coat of suitable maintenance oil to protect the steel.
Age Restriction
This item is sold only to persons aged 18 years or older. Please provide your date of birth during the ordering process. Suitable proof of age is also required.
Safety Notice
This product has a sharpened blade and may have sharp cutting edges. Improper or careless use may result in injury.
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