Hello all, first post on myArmoury :) . I was considering placing a custom order with Vladimir Cervenka, and wanted to know alittle more about the sword in question. It appeared to me, in the feature profiling Ewart's Typology (my bible at the moment) that XVa has a hexagonal cross-section, as opposed to a flated diamond like it's single-handed cousin. Though I have seen, mostly from albion, blades which are supposed to be XVIa but are flatened diamond like a XVIIIa...Now I realise that swords may exibit many characteristics. As a general rule though, should the blade have a cross-section that's hexagonal or flattened diamond, and are there positives and negatives for either?

Also, can anyone tell me if Vladimir Cervenka is familiar with Ewart's typology? I wouldn't think so but...

Our article on Type XV swords discusses cross-section. as does our complete article on Ewart Oakeshott. One important characteristic of the Type XV/XVa is its diamond cross-section. Oakeshott also makes mention of examples exhibiting a central mid-rib.

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Thanks Angus and Nathan, that's what I needed to know.

In Oakeshott's earlier works, he specifically says XVIa has a hexagonal cross-section. In Records of the Medieval Sword, I don't think he mentions the cross-section for the sub-type at all, though, though the drawing doesn't show a central ridge/midrib. :)

If a longsword has a diamond cross-section, short fuller, and a non-straight edge, it's probably a Type XVIIIa. If it has the same things, but the fuller is longer, I would think it would have to fit XVIa, as there wouldn't really be another place for it in the typology (not that everything has to fit anyway).

Thanks, it is quite a difficult sub-type to grasp. It seems a bit over-looked, not too many reproductions on the market. Love versatility of it's form though.