Okay, I admit that I'm one of those "switcher" guys but it normally doesn't happen too often. I had an order in for the Talhoffer but decided to change it to a Caithness. Why you say? Because I realized that I'll have 5 longswords and one short in my collection. This doesn't seem balanced enough even though I prefer longswords. The Caithness is unique and a type XII blade is high on my list. The Talhoffer will have to wait until next year sometime. Now for the Svante, I'm on pins and needles waiting for it :D

Good choice, Gary. I got one about three months ago with a light brown grip, and like it a lot. I had decided I wanted a one-handed sword and agonized between that and the Knight. Both (as well as the Laird) have identical blades. I decided on the Caithness because it was more unusual, a decision I have not regretted for a moment. I have five Albion swords at present and two more in the pipeline. I have to say that my hands down favorite is the Jarl. That surprised me because I'm not typically a big fan of Viking swords, they just aren't my bag, but I decided I wanted a representative example of the type. However, when it arrived I went nuts. I haven't hung it up with the others because I can't stop fiddling/playing with it. Perfect (for me) balance, heft, control, and indefinable spirit. Maybe I have a Viking or two in my ancestry somewhere.....

Since the Talhoffer isn't yet in production I doubt Albion will send anyone to rough you up for switching on them. It would be different if you had a custom smith halfway through making your sword, and changed the design on him, or told Albion you wanted something else after they already made your sword.

Now if you switch again they might have to send someone over with one of those big ol' hammers. :eek:

I just think its cool that the occasional switch can be accomodated!! :D

Don't worry Gary. I too have a case of the 'switch-bug.' (ordered a Poitiers, but switched to Fiore).

Have you handled a Caithness? Very cool sword! -Ted