Let’s Dive into Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672
The Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 is an intriguing piece. Marketed towards role-playing game enthusiasts, it promises a blend of aesthetics and functionality for both beginners and seasoned players. I was curious to see if this short sword could live up to the fantasy it embodies, or if it would fall short of expectations.
My interest in this product stemmed from a desire to find an affordable, yet visually appealing, prop for use in live-action role-playing (LARP) events. I was seeking something lightweight and safe enough for simulated combat, while still possessing a degree of realism. The Fantasy Master sword seemed to strike that balance.
Upon unboxing, my initial impression was mixed. The sword’s design, with its black-coated stainless steel blade and cord-wrapped handle, certainly had a certain visual appeal. The weight felt surprisingly light, which was both a positive and a potential negative depending on its balance and durability.
Compared to other LARP-safe weapons I’ve handled, such as padded boffers and foam swords, the Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 offered a more realistic aesthetic. However, its stainless steel blade raised concerns about safety during simulated combat. I also considered a Cold Steel training sword, but ultimately chose the Fantasy Master due to its lower price point and more fantastical design.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to put it through its paces to see if it could handle light sparring and remain safe and visually impressive. The low price made me question the long-term durability, but I hoped for the best.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 was a controlled sparring session with a fellow LARPer experienced in safe combat techniques. We focused on light strikes and parries to assess the sword’s handling and potential impact. The environment was a dry, grassy field, offering adequate space and relatively forgiving terrain.
In dry conditions, the cord-wrapped handle provided a decent grip, though I quickly noticed it could become slippery with even minor perspiration. The sword felt surprisingly maneuverable due to its light weight, making it easy to execute quick strikes. However, the blade’s lack of a sharp edge meant it offered little feedback upon contact, making precise parrying somewhat challenging.
The biggest issue I encountered during the first use was the balance. The blade-heavy design, combined with the lightweight handle, made the sword feel unwieldy at times. This led to a few near misses during parries and an overall lack of confidence in its defensive capabilities.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of occasional use in light sparring and costume displays, the Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 began to show some signs of wear. The black coating on the stainless steel blade developed minor scratches from contact with other weapons. While these were mostly cosmetic, they raised concerns about the coating’s long-term durability.
The cord-wrapped handle remained intact, but the cord started to fray in a couple of spots. The stainless steel blade itself showed no signs of bending or structural damage, suggesting it was reasonably robust.
Maintaining the sword was simple. I cleaned the blade with a soft cloth and mild soap, then applied a light coat of oil to prevent rust. The cord handle was more challenging to clean, requiring a small brush to remove dirt and debris. Overall, the maintenance wasn’t overly burdensome, but the fraying cord was a constant annoyance.
Compared to my experiences with other LARP weapons, the Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 fell somewhere in the middle. It offered a more realistic aesthetic than foam swords but lacked the durability and safety of well-made boffers. Its primary strength lay in its low price point and decent visual appeal, making it a viable option for casual use and costume displays.
Breaking Down the Features of Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672
Specifications
Manufacturer: Fantasy Master. This brand focuses on providing entry-level fantasy and tactical gear, often prioritizing affordability over top-tier quality.
Overall Length: 25 inches. This compact size makes it easy to handle and transport, ideal for costuming or display purposes.
Blade Length: 25 inches. A 25-inch blade classifies this as a short sword, suitable for close-quarters combat simulation or theatrical use.
Blade Material: Stainless Steel. While durable against corrosion, stainless steel is not ideal for heavy impact or edge retention.
Handle Finish: Cord Wrapped. The cord wrapping provides a basic grip, but may lack the comfort and durability of more advanced materials.
Blade Type: Fixed Blade. A fixed blade construction provides inherent strength and avoids folding mechanisms that can fail.
Included Accessories: 600D Nylon Sheath. The included sheath offers a basic level of protection and portability, but the 600D nylon is not particularly robust.
These specifications indicate that the Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 is designed primarily for aesthetic and light-duty use. The stainless steel blade and cord-wrapped handle are cost-effective choices, but may compromise long-term durability and performance in demanding situations. The included sheath is a welcome addition, but its quality reflects the sword’s overall budget-friendly nature.
Performance & Functionality
The Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 performs adequately for its intended purpose as a costume prop and light sparring weapon. Its light weight makes it easy to wield, and the blade has a decent aesthetic appeal.
However, its functionality is limited by its balance and construction. The blade-heavy design and basic grip make it difficult to execute precise movements, and the lack of a sharp edge diminishes its effectiveness in simulated combat. The sword meets expectations as a budget-friendly prop, but falls short of being a reliable or high-performance weapon.
Design & Ergonomics
The Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 features a fantasy-inspired design with a black-coated blade and cord-wrapped handle. The overall look is visually appealing and fits well within the fantasy genre.
However, the ergonomics are somewhat lacking. The lightweight handle feels unbalanced compared to the blade, and the cord wrapping can become uncomfortable during extended use. The sword is relatively user-friendly, requiring no special skills or knowledge to handle, but its design prioritizes aesthetics over comfort and functionality.
Durability & Maintenance
The Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 is reasonably durable for its price point, but its long-term lifespan is questionable. The stainless steel blade is resistant to rust and corrosion, but the black coating is prone to scratching and wear.
The cord-wrapped handle is the weakest point, as the cord can fray and unravel over time. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling, but the fragile handle may require more frequent attention.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 comes with a basic 600D nylon sheath for storage and transport. This sheath offers minimal protection and lacks any MOLLE attachments or other advanced features.
Customization options are limited due to the sword’s construction and materials. The blade cannot be easily sharpened or modified, and the handle is difficult to replace. While some users may attempt to add their own decorations or embellishments, the sword is primarily designed for use as-is. The Fantasy Master brand does not offer additional accessories specifically for this model.
Pros and Cons of Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672
Pros
- Affordable Price: This is the biggest selling point. You get a decent-looking fantasy sword without breaking the bank.
- Lightweight Design: Easy to handle and maneuver, especially for beginners or those prioritizing portability.
- Visually Appealing: The black-coated blade and cord-wrapped handle create a cool, fantasy-inspired aesthetic.
- Included Sheath: Provides basic protection and makes it easier to carry the sword.
- Relatively Durable Blade: The stainless steel blade is resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring a decent lifespan.
Cons
- Poor Balance: The blade-heavy design makes it unwieldy and difficult to control, especially during parries.
- Flimsy Handle: The cord-wrapped handle is uncomfortable and prone to fraying, reducing its long-term durability.
- Not Suitable for Heavy Sparring: The lack of a sharp edge and poor balance make it ineffective and potentially unsafe for intense combat.
Who Should Buy Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672?
The Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 is perfect for:
- Cosplayers on a budget who need an affordable and visually appealing prop.
- Casual LARPers engaged in light sparring and role-playing.
- Fantasy enthusiasts looking for a decorative sword to display in their home.
Who should skip this product?
- Serious martial artists or historical reenactors seeking a functional weapon.
- LARPers engaging in intense combat or requiring high levels of safety.
- Collectors looking for a high-quality, durable sword.
A must-have accessory for anyone purchasing this sword is a quality cord sealant or replacement handle wrap. This will significantly improve the handle’s durability and comfort. Consider also purchasing proper LARP-safe training in weapon handling if planning to use the sword for sparring.
Conclusion on Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672
The Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 is a budget-friendly option for those seeking a visually appealing prop for cosplay, light LARPing, or display purposes. While its affordable price is its strongest selling point, its poor balance and flimsy handle limit its functionality and durability.
The value proposition is decent, as the price reflects the sword’s quality and intended use. It’s not a high-performance weapon, but it serves its purpose as a cheap and cheerful fantasy prop.
I would cautiously recommend it to those who understand its limitations and are primarily concerned with aesthetics and affordability. It’s a good starter sword for beginners, but serious enthusiasts should look elsewhere. If you’re looking for a cool-looking sword on a shoestring budget, the Fantasy Master Fantasy Short Sword 25″ Overall FM-672 might just be the blade for you. Just be prepared to replace that handle!