Paul Binns Swords.

[Alan Axe]

Has anyone had any experience of these ? They have a reputation for destroying anything that fights against them, and lasting forever.
The downside is the long order waiting time.
http://www.paul-binns-swords.co.uk/

[pmel018]

I have several, what exactly do you want to know?
Phil

[Alan Axe]

I am interested in how they perform, and any good or bad points with them.
I have an older Darkwood sword, and want to replace it.

[pmel018]

Hi
Good points- Tough, designed for re-enactment combat
- Good handling, not great clumsy crowbars, it is possible to actually fence with them
-Semi custom made, Paul will adjust to suit, assuming you aren't ordering a stock item
-Correct profile, although not made with historic tecniques(usually) the finished weapons closely replicate the apperance of period weapons.
-Durability, the weapons are stoutly put together, any repairs are simple to make if you can handle peined consruction.

Bad Points- distance, you are a long way from the maker
- lead time, he has a formidable waiting list
- finish, the weapons look handmade, and can appear a bit rough for the money.
-scabbards, usually none supplied.


Not sure that they will destroy anything in their path , but for safe re-enactment use there are few better.
Phil

[Bogue]

And Phil said

[pmel018]

Hi Bogue
I did ponder including that comment, but if you spend the equivalet of $450-500 NZ ( plus shipping and taxes)for a fairly basic re-enactment sword then its apperance will be a factor. Accurate grind lines and good surface finish should be part of the deal and the lack of these can't be excused by saying "it is hand made". Our ancestors did it and other makers can do it. I own swords from the following makers
Paul Binns
Peter Lyons
Craig Sitch(Manning Imperial)
Armour Class http://www.armourclass.com/
Paul Burridge, Bronze Weapons http://www.bronze-age-swords.com/British_and_European.htm
Albion Swords http://www.albion-swords.com/
Arms and Armor http://armor.com/
Del Tin http://www.deltin.it/home.htm
as well as a couple made by Dean McKinstry, Colins brother.
Many of these have had very hard lives, in use for both re-enactment and HEMA. Every one of them is better finished than and just as well put together as a Binns sword; but none could be called "cookie cutter, same as the next one on the rack" So you spends your money and you takes your pick.
Paul Binns swords are revered in the UK, but as you say there is a big difference between re-enactment and swordfighting

[JohnF]

I found a nice thread on MyArmoury that discusses asymmetry and defects in
making of swords. They showed two swords, one belonging to a Duke, the other an
Emperor. They both had asymmetrical aspects. I suggest that some asymmetry was
common. The matter is one of degree.

[Alan Axe]

Thanks for the feedback guys. I have made my mind up.
It`s going to be a Paul Binns sword.
As Phil Burthem is bringing some Paul Binns swords to the Auckland Medieval Festival next week, I will buy one off him and avoid the six month waiting time.

[pmel018]

As long as you get if for the right money you won't go far wrong for an early medieval sword. Enjoy.
Phil