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Positive sword stories to counter some of the negative Nancy hoplophic nonsense out there these days that passes for 'news'

Tochigi Exhibition Draws 90,000 advance reservations

In a heartening sign that interest in swords in Japan is several times more popular than they planned for, and while video games still remain a driving force for the mainstream interest, if it keeps the tradition alive and dispels some facts, who cares?

New Guinness Book of records on most targets cut in the shortest time beaten again!

It's a bit brief, and doesn't go into the custom sword used to make this record, but we will get into it in more detail shortly!

Details on the award winning sword

It was made to cut with just a flick of the wrist by Reto Zürcher Swiss made Masterpiece.

Authentic Viking Pommel finds new home in Shetland Museum

The 5 lobed pommel, which is one of the rare parts that can be dated to between 900th to 1100th AD - and that is about all we know. So many stories and mysteries each of these objects holds.

Japan House in Los Angeles with its high tech Katana display shows promise

On display from Feb 14th to Sept 1st, the 'Samurai and Beyond: Exploring Traditional through Technology' uses state of the art scans, presentations viewed up close and from angles you would never see them behind glass.

Don't think Chinese Swordsmiths are serious about their art? Think again..

If you think that there are no smiths left who take pride in their ancient heritage and forging techniques, you need to read this article. Enough said.

Even mushroom hunters are finding antique swords!

He was looking for mushrooms to eat in the Czech republic but foud instead a 3,300 year old iron sword (not the one in the picture, obviously when you look). So who even needs metal detectors? Truly, the amount of antique swords waiting to be rediscovered is without much doubt many times what we have found so far..

How realistic is Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2

Matt Easton weighs in with an article and video about how real (or not) this much lauded games medieval sword fighting system is (or not). But it sure has a learning curve..

Wheel pommels can be boring, but they also offer some great opportunities for cheap customization..

Crafting Coin-Embedded Pommels 101

Coins set in pommels serve as a fascinating fusion of numismatics and craftsmanship. They have been used for centuries, notably in sword hilts, to symbolize wealth, commemorate events, or simply as a decorative element. Here's a brief guide on how to set coins in pommels and where to find your sources.

Materials Needed:

• Coins (preferably with sentimental or historical value)
• Pommel (sword hilt, cane handle, etc.)
• Epoxy resin or strong adhesive
• Dremel tool or small drill
• Sandpaper
• Safety gear (gloves, goggles)

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Choose Your Coin: Select a coin that holds personal significance or historical value. Ensure it's not rare or highly valuable, as modifying it can affect its worth.
2. Prepare the Pommel: Use the Dremel tool or small drill to create a recess in the pommel. The size should match the diameter and thickness of the coin.
3. Smooth the Edges: Sand the edges of the recess to ensure a smooth fit for the coin. This will help in securing the coin more firmly.
4. Set the Coin: Apply a thin layer of epoxy resin or strong adhesive to the recess. Carefully place the coin into the recess and press firmly. Ensure it is centered and level.
5. Let It Dry: Allow the adhesive to dry completely as per the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes a few hours to a day.
6. Final Touches: Once dry, inspect the coin for stability. Sand any excess adhesive around the edges for a polished finish.

Where to Find Coins:

• Local Coin Shops: These shops often have a variety of coins, including those suitable for crafting.
• Online Marketplaces: Websites like eBay and Etsy offer a wide range of coins from different periods and regions. Famed scabbard and sword customizer Brian offers some on his site here: https://dbkcustomswords.com/pommeldecor.html
• Coin Shows: Attending coin shows can provide access to unique and historical coins, along with expert advice from dealers.
• Flea Markets & Antique Stores: These places can be treasure troves for finding interesting and affordable coins.
• Cast your own! There are some good articles and free tutorials out there, or even 3D print it if you can!

Additional Tips:

• Avoid using rare or highly valuable coins to preserve their numismatic value.
• Wear safety gear while drilling and sanding to protect yourself.
• Consider experimenting with different coins to create a collection of pommels with unique histories.

Coins set in pommels blend history with artistry, making each piece a conversation starter. Whether you're a collector, craftsman, or history enthusiast, creating these unique artifacts can be a rewarding endeavor. Special thanks to the work of SBG Facebook member Richard Balzano.

Speaking of Etsy, if you want an example of just how low some sellers there stoop, check out "Forge of the Templar". Yes, authentic Templar swords can be made to order for just $12,000 and the bargains don't stop there.. (please, someone. Make them stop there!)

All these for just 12K! That's only $3,000 each when you do the math..! And its gets better, for just $3500 they can make a replica from the movie 300 for you!? 11 sales/suckers so far, report if you are a member..

Now as we all know, one of the largest industry wide changes and events is the Hanwei brand having its production taken over by Frenchie Jin on the otherwide of Dailan (formerly Manchuria). This is a given, we are going to see a lot of swords for the last time, some improvements on classic designs and brand new swords that feel familiar (after all, Hanwei were making all the Kigston Arms swords, olny making the the Renaissance Side Sword and the Katzbalger, both of whom have proved to be well rated, popular products and hard to keep in stock..!

The super popular, great value Side Sword

And Frenchies mean Katzbalger

So while it might take a while, and you'll see a lot of swords go from stock with no answers on if or when they will come back, it's going to be an interesting and revolutionary time..

Indeed, interesting and revolutionary are the keywords for our 20th anniversary, and you may have seen a glimpse of some of that as we expand into related 'non sword' items such as, well, such the meanest damn Walking stick from Windlass I have ever seen (and with no blades inside, it's a matter of intent "I don't like dogs officer").

If I saw someone walking down the street with this in a bad mood, I'd probably cross the road..

But that's all just for for fun, our main focus on our 20th anniversary is a going to be revealed as the year progresses. Expect more products, more adventures, more interactivity, more give aways and competitions, more collectibles and limited editions, more content and more - well, just lot MORE (including some real left field surprises).

Stay tuned folks, 2025 will need speed, flexibility and the will to make it all work - and that SBG has in spades. And man, you should see some of the prototypes we have been working on recently..

I won't share much other than a quick video showing a durability test of a true screen accurate, battle ready Highlander open open mouth blade coming out in the next few weeks or months ahead as an SBG Swordier exclusive..

"There can be only one..". And working closely with fans who have been spending decades searching for something like this, maybe this will be it?! We can only do our best..

And before I sign off on what is coming, slow moving, overpriced medieval sword makers could be in for a major shakeup this year.. I won't say too much more yet, but some early mysterious reviews are appearing on the forum recently from SBG team members ostensibly from Ryujin Swords. And when it hits, oh my...

And some f the functional blades are downright attractive. You'd think they were wallhangers, but they are real cutting swords and again, probably under $200 for the complete package!

Pardon their French, but it was too funny to censor..

Some tops pics for February from the team at Trueswords.com who have been kind enough to help sponsor and contribute to the running costs of the Sword Buyers Digest in 2025! Thanks guys, been a fan for years!

As many of you know, we recently added Windlass Steelcrafts to our list of quality functional sword makers - and as you may also know, one of my biggest frustrations with them was they would discontinue too many good swords all the time..

I get it now, they need to keep trying new things, but many of the old models could still theoretically be ordered again if there is enough interest and people willing to pony up and pre-order.

I nearly lost my mind when I saw all the various classic models up for grabs if we can get enough interest. So stand by for this.. I the meantime, around the same time as the Raptor was the Eye of Balor (pictured left).

Looks cool enough, but the details and that hideous eye.. Steven Lenhardht frm Facebook will give me nightmares from this thing.. (me wants it!)

But we have some real classics that could come back in a limited re-run, so stay tuned guys. And in the meantime, if there is a classic discontinued Winldass sword you think MUST make the list, let me know now so I can include it..

I mean what about the:

Suontaka

The Verenuil

Or what for Heron Mark fans?

I could keep listing options until the cow comes home. So stay tuned on this, it could be good. And my dream.. Well..

If we could get enough folk to pre-order this sucker and if it was still makable (I didn't see it in the list, so it might not be feasible) - but I would give my left arm to own one of these. And my right. And legs - and just call it a draw..

Want to know why I NEED that Black Knight sword? Monty Python fans will know and appreciate this video, and newcomers will probably spill coffee all over their keyboards..

I've probably featured it somewhere in the digest before, and no doubt I will again. Easiy the most historically accurate Athurian retelling ever retold.

It sucks being at the mercy of a souless business like YouTube and Facebook. But in the last few days, some of our most respected Sword Channel makers are putting out the alarm bells..

First vid, by Shadiversity:

And then Skallarim notes many of the same and worst things because after 16 years, he has no idea what his audience wants..

Not to buy into any possible conspiracies here, but with international shipping now nearly a thing of the past and legislators around the world finding more pathetic reasons for 'banning' swords and if that was the case, it's no surprise that social media BARELY tolerates our community..

What's the worst injury you have received with your sword?

It's an old thread from 2022, but as you might expect it gets updated.. Makes the back of my legs cringe just thinking about some of these

Quick, cheap saya touch ups

You my already well know this easy fix. But if you have a saya (especially a black one) with some unsightly dings, this is the easiest fix known to man..

Saya rattle - deal with it and calm down...!

I've lost count of folk dismissing good swords as sub par rubbish because the saya makes a noise when you shake it. Why it's silly, and if this is the best people can complain about with Katana these days, we are very lucky indeed.

Ronin Alexandria Re-do advice

Sometimes when life hands you a lemon (or bent tang that almost snapped trying to fix it), you can choose to either suck it up, or make lemonade. SBG forumite crazyjons received an atrocious example of a Ronin Euro Alexandria sword and his work fixing it is both educational and serves as a great general tutorial.

Rather than the usual best posts, let's take a moment to remember David Kelly, who sadly passed on the 10th of January this year.

Dave was a prolific collector, you might recall him from images in the gallery with rooms literally FILLED to the walls with his sword collection. But more than this, he was a true gentleman who never hesitated to humbly share his knowledge and will be sorely missed.

R.I.P. Dave

I must admit, I have played with A.I. from time to time, mostly with hilarious results in the early days with swords that defied logic, physics and logic even a second time..

But in 2024, it's got a lot better. It saves time to help overcome writers block, helps with research and makes life easier so I can get more done. So the short answer is, you betcha!!!

Most of what you see is still written or at least proof read by little old me, but as I get older, I need all the help I can muster. So let's see what A.I. and SBG can achieve in 2025 - it's going to be a busy, busy, year and we need all the resources we can muster..

Until March, Stay safe and Happy Swordening!