Paul Chen Agincourt Sword Review

Let’s Dive into Paul Chen Agincourt Sword

The Paul Chen Agincourt Sword, crafted by Hanwei, is a single-hand sword designed to evoke the spirit of the famed Battle of Agincourt. This sword is intended to appeal to reenactors and historical enthusiasts who want a blade that resembles those used in the medieval period. The focus is on replicating the look and feel of a working sword, not a polished showpiece.

I’ve always been fascinated by medieval weaponry, particularly the swords used in historical battles. I needed a sword that not only looked authentic but also felt balanced and functional, suitable for light cutting practice and demonstrations. The historical significance and reputation of Paul Chen swords drew me to this particular model.

Upon unboxing the Paul Chen Agincourt Sword, my initial impression was one of robust simplicity. The blade’s unpolished finish and the solid feel of the steel fittings suggested a tool meant for work, not display. The leather-covered grip provided a comfortable and secure hold.

Compared to other similarly priced historical reproductions, such as some models from Windlass Steelcrafts, the Paul Chen Agincourt Sword stood out for its reported edge retention and balance. I chose it primarily for the Paul Chen/Hanwei‘s reputation for producing functional swords that can withstand more than just static display. I also looked at Generation 2 swords, but decided on the Agincourt Sword because of its historical accuracy.

My first impression was excitement tempered with a healthy dose of realism. While it’s not a museum-quality piece, the Paul Chen Agincourt Sword seemed like a solid, well-made reproduction that could handle some use. I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it performed in real-world conditions.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Paul Chen Agincourt Sword to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Paul Chen Agincourt Sword primarily in my backyard, practicing basic cutting techniques on water-filled plastic bottles and tatami mats. The weather was dry and mild, offering ideal conditions for handling the sword.

The Agincourt Sword performed reasonably well during these initial tests, though not flawlessly. The blade felt well-balanced, making it relatively easy to control during swings. I did find that the edge needed some additional sharpening to achieve optimal cutting performance.

The grip felt comfortable and secure, even with sweaty hands. The sword required a bit of getting used to, particularly in judging the angle of the blade for clean cuts. There were no significant issues after the first use, just a sense of needing more practice to fully master the blade.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the Paul Chen Agincourt Sword has held up reasonably well. There are some minor scratches on the blade from contact with targets, but nothing beyond what I would expect from regular use.

The edge has dulled slightly with repeated cutting, requiring periodic sharpening. The leather grip has shown no signs of wear, and the steel fittings remain tight and secure.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper decorative swords, the Paul Chen Agincourt Sword is significantly more durable and functional. It outperforms purely decorative pieces in terms of cutting ability and overall handling.

Breaking Down the Features of Paul Chen Agincourt Sword

Specifications

The Paul Chen Agincourt Sword boasts several key specifications that define its performance and handling characteristics. The overall length is 35 1/4 inches, with a blade length of 27 1/4 inches. The handle length is 8 inches, and the sword weighs 2lb 8oz.

The blade is crafted from 5160 high carbon steel, known for its toughness and ability to hold an edge. The guard and pommel are made of steel, adding to the sword’s overall durability and balance. These specifications are important because they determine the sword’s handling characteristics, cutting ability, and overall durability, making it a functional tool for re-enactment or practice.

Performance & Functionality

The Paul Chen Agincourt Sword performs its intended job reasonably well, providing a functional approximation of a medieval single-hand sword. Its accuracy is decent, allowing for controlled cuts with practice.

The sword’s strengths lie in its robust construction and comfortable grip. However, the blade requires additional sharpening out of the box to achieve optimal cutting performance, which is a weakness. It generally meets expectations as a functional reenactment sword, though it may not satisfy those seeking a razor-sharp, competition-grade blade.

Design & Ergonomics

The Paul Chen Agincourt Sword‘s build quality is solid, with durable materials and a focus on functionality. The sword has a comfortable weight in hand and is relatively easy to wield.

There’s a slight learning curve involved in mastering the sword’s handling, particularly in judging the correct cutting angles. However, the overall design is user-friendly and allows for a secure and comfortable grip.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper care, the Paul Chen Agincourt Sword should last for many years of moderate use. The 5160 high carbon steel blade is relatively resistant to chipping and bending.

The sword is fairly easy to maintain, requiring only regular cleaning and oiling to prevent rust. The leather grip may need occasional conditioning to prevent cracking.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Paul Chen Agincourt Sword comes with a wood scabbard covered in black leather with steel mounts. This is the primary accessory included with the sword.

Customization options are somewhat limited, as the sword is designed to be a historical reproduction. However, the grip could potentially be replaced with a custom-made one. The sword should be compatible with most standard sword maintenance tools, such as sharpening stones and cleaning kits.

Pros and Cons of Paul Chen Agincourt Sword