I ran across Nathan's pics of this sword and wanted to get some opinions on it.

Has anyone out there bought one or handled a recent one?

Is it based on a particular sword?

I dug up an old review I made several years ago:

Quote:

Late 16th Century Italian Sword (#2161) Length: 104 cm/41” (blade 87.5 cm/34½”), weight: 1.1 kg/2 lbs 7 oz This sword is an elegant piece, with a graceful look that’s also functional. The full-tang, carbon steel blade has a diamond cross-section. It tapers to a narrow point and is ideal for thrusting. A narrow fuller runs down the first 1/4th of the blade, which also sports a ricasso. The elaborate hilt has gently S-shaped, flattened steel quillons which are slightly decorated, while the loop- and ring-guards are decorated with a stamped floral motif. The grip is of wood, wrapped with twisted wire and decorated with pleated brass fillets in both ends. The dome-shaped steel pommel is decorated with floral ”escutcheons”, and ends in a small knob. The sword is a pleasure to wield, being well balanced and light enough for fast sword-play. While not being an exeptional sword, it’s still a fine weapon, and one worth considering if you want something fancier than a plain sword, but not as slim as a rapier. If you like this one, you might want to consider a suitable dagger to go with it. Del Tin’s Late 16th Century German Dagger is close enough in style, so check the review below.

Since this was written, the rolled-and-welded rings have been exchanged for cast parts of greater durability. The welds on the old version had a tendency to develop small cracks. The rest still stands.

I own one and I agree with the other postings, it's a very nice sword.

The decorative details of the hilt set it apart from plainer swords. The 'half hilt' (no counter guard) makes it easy to carry at the hip. The blade is a nice compromise, wide enough for an effective cut but certainly designed more for the thrust. The blade isn't overly long (compared to, say, a rapier) which makes it very manuverable, a quick blade for a parry and counter attack! Workmanship, on mine at least, are up to Del Tin's usual good standards.

Thanks for the info, guys, I appreciate it.

Has Fulvio changed this one recently? Are the newest versions as good?

I am also a true fan of this sword and I think the newer versions at least the one I handled one year ago was very good.

Regards

Manoucher