Tod Cutler – Long Swiss / German Degen Landsknecht Sword

This Swiss / German Landsknecht Degen Sword has a blade of tempered 1060-1065 High Carbon Steel which is stiffened, particularly in the bottom half of the sword with a hexagonal cross section which transitions to a diamond cross section to the tip. The blade is agile and can cut and thrust with great ability and its length is ideal for a scrum in tighter quarters, such as city streets in a self defense situation, or within the confines of a tight halberd and pike formation on the battlefield. The hilt is made from ebonized ash wood which is surmounted by brass fittings. The sword is matched with a wooden scabbard which is bound in stitched genuine vegetable tanned leather. A brass cap and hanging straps complete the scabbard for wear. From the mid-15th to mid-16th centuries, the Swiss Degen emerged as a favored short sword of both medieval and Renaissance eras. Particularly esteemed by Landsknecht mercenaries, who referred to it as the ‘Schweizerdegen,’ this sword’s distinctive Swiss design was also popular among civilians. Characterized by its curved top and bottom guards, this sword features a robust double-edged blade that is hexagonal for the initial 30 cm (12 inches) before transitioning to a diamond cross-section. The guards are crafted from latten (brass), while the grip is made from ebonized ash wood. Similar daggers of the period, often called ‘Schweizerdolch,’ exhibited comparable design elements. The swords by Tod Cutler have historical dimensions, proportions and handcrafted aesthetics foremost in mind. The swords show tool marks and minor cosmetic imperfections as part of their handcrafted nature and each has a unique character that is unlike the finish of common modern mass manufactured items. These tool marks and signs of hand finishing do not affect the usability, durability or build quality of the sword but instead form a part of its handcrafted character