Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword Review

First Impressions of Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword

The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword isn’t just another piece of steel; it’s a testament to historical craftsmanship, meticulously designed for balance and cutting prowess. Kingston Arms has sought to replicate the feel of a true war sword, focusing on replicating its lethal potential. This sword immediately stands out with its impressive 32.75″ blade and substantial, yet manageable, weight.

My own journey towards acquiring this war sword stemmed from a desire to connect with historical martial arts. I wanted a functional and balanced weapon for training. After years of using lighter, more decorative swords, I was craving the experience of wielding a weapon designed for real combat.

Unboxing the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword was an experience in itself. The heft of the blade was immediately apparent, reassuringly solid without being unwieldy. The leather-wrapped wood core handle felt secure in my grip, and the satin finish on the blade gave it a menacing yet refined look.

Initially, I considered the Hanwei Tinker Pearce Longsword. Ultimately, the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword’s emphasis on replicating a battlefield weapon won me over. I also looked at the Windlass Steelcrafts European Sword, but it lacked the refined blade geometry of the Kingston Arms offering. I was excited and eager to put this sword through its paces.

Real-World Testing: Putting Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword was at a local cutting demonstration with other members of my historical martial arts group. I tested it against tatami mats rolled to simulate limbs, focusing on edge alignment and cutting technique. The Atrim War Sword felt surprisingly agile for its size.

The weather was clear, but a bit breezy, which tested my edge control. The sword performed admirably, cutting cleanly through the mats with proper technique, even when my alignment wasn’t perfect. It took some getting used to the balance point, which is further out than lighter swords I’ve used.

I initially struggled to maintain a perfectly straight cut, which I attribute to the weapon’s weight and blade length. After adjusting my grip and stance, I became more comfortable. The initial issues quickly vanished as I got used to it.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword has proven to be remarkably durable. The 9260 steel blade has held its edge well, even after repeated impacts. There are a few minor scratches on the blade, but nothing that affects its performance.

Maintaining the sword is straightforward; I clean and oil the blade after each use to prevent rust. I also condition the leather on the handle and scabbard regularly. Compared to some of my earlier swords, the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword requires less frequent sharpening, a testament to the quality of the steel and heat treatment.

Previously, I trained with a cheaper stainless steel sword, which quickly developed significant edge damage. The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword is far superior in terms of edge retention and overall durability. It outperforms my previous sword by a wide margin.

Breaking Down the Features of Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword

Specifications

The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword boasts an overall length of 43.25″ (109.86cm). The 32.75″ (83.19cm) satin finish blade is crafted from 9260 steel. The sword weighs in at a substantial 3.4lb, contributing to its powerful cutting ability.

The blade is a single-edged design, optimized for cutting and slashing attacks. The steel guard and pommel provide excellent balance and hand protection. The wood core handle is wrapped with black cord and textured leather. This provides a comfortable and secure grip. The wood core scabbard, complete with a steel chape and stitched leather wrap, offers secure and historically accurate storage.

Performance & Functionality

The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword excels at its intended purpose: delivering powerful and controlled cuts. With proper technique, it cleaves through targets with impressive force and minimal vibration. Its weight gives it significant momentum. This translates to deeper and more decisive cuts.

The sword’s strengths lie in its balance, edge geometry, and durable construction. Its main weakness is its weight, which might be tiring for extended use by those with less experience. It certainly meets my expectations for a functional war sword, and I’m happy with its performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword is excellent. The materials used are robust and well-finished. The 3.4lb weight feels substantial but balanced, making it manageable for skilled users. The leather-wrapped handle is comfortable and provides a secure grip.

There is a slight learning curve due to the sword’s weight and balance. Experienced sword practitioners will adapt quickly. Novices may need time to develop the necessary strength and technique. Its weight and size requires some practice to master, so I highly suggest proper training to anyone that is beginning their sword journey.

Durability & Maintenance

The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword is built to last. The 9260 steel blade is known for its toughness and resistance to chipping or bending. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blade are essential to prevent rust.

The leather components require occasional conditioning to maintain their suppleness. The sword is relatively easy to disassemble for cleaning and maintenance. A simple set of tools and some basic knowledge are sufficient to keep it in top condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword comes with a wood core scabbard, complete with a steel chape and stitched leather wrap, providing safe storage. There aren’t many direct customization options available from Kingston Arms. However, the handle wrap could be replaced with a different material.

Additionally, custom sword stands and display cases are readily available from third-party vendors. The 9260 steel blade is compatible with various sharpening systems and polishing compounds. This allows users to maintain the edge to their preferred level of sharpness.

Pros and Cons of Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword

Who Should Buy Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword?

The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword is perfect for historical martial arts practitioners. It is also suitable for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate functional weapons. Individuals interested in learning sword fighting would also benefit.

This sword may not be suitable for individuals with limited upper body strength. It’s also not ideal for purely decorative purposes. Training and proper safety equipment are essential.

A sharpening kit and blade oil are must-have accessories. Consider investing in a good quality sword stand or display case.

Conclusion on Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword

The Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword is a well-crafted and functional weapon that offers an authentic historical experience. It’s not a toy; it demands respect and proper handling. At $369.99, the price is justified by its quality, durability, and performance.

I would personally recommend the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword to anyone serious about historical martial arts or sword collecting. If you are seeking a sword that blends historical accuracy, functionality, and durability, look no further. Train hard, stay sharp, and experience the power of the Kingston Arms Atrim War Sword for yourself!