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How Sword Making Has Changed
techniques though ancient or modern sword making does not change the skill.
A sword is basically a sharpened piece of metal that is typically between 24 and 48 inches (61 to 122 cm) in length with a handle (hilt) on one end. The other end usually tapers to a point. Swords can range from strictly utilitarian to completely ceremonial. In many swords, the guard, hilt and pommel are very ornate and serve as the focal point for the uniqueness of the sword.
Sword making is considered to be one of the highest skills a blacksmith or metalworker can possess or acquire. Basic knowledge of sword making includes thorough understanding of metallurgy and heat treating. The general task is
however is best understood from basic metalworking skills to the art of the design of the blade - both in the artistic and engineering standpoint. In fact, many swords are amazing works of art made by the skilled hands of a craftsman.
Sword making, as in historic times was not an easy job. Primitive sword making even used sharpened pieces of stone to form the blade. The process of grinding, polishing and hilting a sword in the ancient times is usually water powered. The
basic forging alone requires help while striking involves a number of ‘strikers'. The tedious job range to a couple of days, even months.
There are many other methods that have been used throughout history and many differences between swords made by bladesmiths of different times and regions. Ancient sword making in the old days produced hand-crafted masterpieces. The authenticity and variety is reflected in prices that may cost $35,000 or more!
The kind of metal used, which is actually the main component in sword making, also speaks of the development and eventual improvement, of sword making. The earliest known swords were made from copper, but copper swords were very soft and dulled quickly. Later on, swords were made from bronze, which
was found out to be stronger and more flexible. A better sword was developed with the advent of iron.
Eventually, steel was discovered. Steel has a number of advantages over iron and bronze because: it is very hard, it is flexible when heat-treated properly, it can stay very sharp for a long time, it can be worked with and shaped, and it is
more resistant to rust and corrosion than iron. Almost all swords made today are some type of steel alloy. Incidentally, expert modern sword makers are quick to disprove that titanium is a blade metal as it is not intrinsically sharp as perceived.
In much simpler impression, the process of traditional sword making involves these steps: heat the iron in a charcoal fire at about 1200 degrees Celsius (2,192 degrees Fahrenheit); beat the iron for several hours until it took the shape of a sword; the sword is plunged in cold water to harden it; and, sharpen the sword in grindstone.
Modern sword making can produce all types of swords because they are manufactured in machine-made replicas but the value is actually cheaper. However, there are experts who still adhere to the traditional hand-crafting technique. In fact, sword making today may actually require experts in the field some may have masters and doctorates in metallurgy, and then spent years
studying the practical aspects of actually making blades.
Modern sword making is very particular on these steps: selecting the stock, forging and shaping the blade; normalizing and annealing the steel; adding the edge; tempering the steel;
and, adding the guard, hilt and pommel.
The knowledge of modern sword making has expanded from the materials used, to details in components. Modern sword making recommends steel with a carbon content of around 60 to 70 points. But there are some who actually uses 1086 steel (.86 percent carbon) and achieves superior results. However, the
higher the rating doesn't always mean better steel. A process of careful heat-treating allows for very hard blades that are resilient and tough.
Basics of sword-making remain very much applicable today, such as and most especially, the source of heat. The basic equipment used by the bladesmith has changed very little over the last few centuries. Traditional bladesmiths tend to use coal forges, but many others prefer the gas or electric forge. No matter which type a bladesmith uses, the desired result is the same: To heat the steel to the proper temperature for shaping the sword.
Modern sword makers employ creative techniques from materials to the process - to achieve a special artifact. There are now special machineries that aids in speed compared to the ancient hand methods. It is observed that the learning process is what actually time-consuming. Modern shops today would
require years of apprenticeship to the smith, to the grinder/polisher, to the hilter and to the scabbard maker. That could sum up to years before one can actually make a sword of his own.
Most modern swords have custom blades which involves advanced pattern welding. Then engravers, platers and mounters join to complete the requirements. A first class engraving is an art and is often the most costly part of a presentation piece. A plater determines the gold, silver or chrome effect. Mounters put gems or other ornaments. Every one is called a ‘specialist'. Although due to economics, most modern sword-makers tend to do it all.
Ancient or modern sword making does not change the skill. The craft of the swordsmith is considered one of the most difficult and demanding of blacksmithing skills.
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