Albion Swords Ltd - Sword Cutlers and Blademakers - Fine Handmade Collectable Limited Edition Museum Quality Medieval Swords

4-23-12
...The Maximilian arrived a couple of days ago and it’s had my full attention ever since.
The aesthetic details are striking. The writhen-style furniture and the blades double fullers give the sword an air of quality, without seeming overbearing.
You’ve really perfected your method of covering the grip and try as I might I’m unable to locate the seam.
The level of fit and finish is unsurprising, in that it’s your typical high level of clean execution. I have to admit that I was surprised by the Maximilian's handling qualities.
This is a big sword and as you know I’m a lover of big swords. I was expecting a good deal of heft with the Maximilian and while it has that, it doesn’t compromise the swords handling qualities which are quite nice.
It takes a good deal of knowledge and experience to produce a sword of this size that possesses this type of dynamic handling ability.
The Albion team should be proud of their success in achieving such attributes with this latest entry.
Overall the Maximilian is one of your most impressive efforts to date.
Some of your models have already become somewhat of an industry standard for their type and I predict the Maximilian will be such a sword.
-- Patrick Kelly

2-8-12
...At long last, after months of waiting, I finally had a chance to handle my new Senlac.
She is a gorgeous cutting sword. I was surprised to discover how lively she feels in hand, and what a slender yet deadly blade!
The Senlac is a joy to handle paired with a shield and lends herself to dynamic and ferocious fighting.
Albion has delivered another winning sword, but what else would I expect?
Thanks again to everyone in the Albion crew for helping to make such a classic, high medieval sword.
-- Craig P

1-30-12
...I just received one of the antiqued Castellan swords from the Moat Sale. Even in its rusted state, I can see and feel that this is a fine sword with a highly agile blade.
The Type V pommel has depth and character, and fits nicely in hand, and the flared Type 11 guard is very elegant.
Ironically, the Castellan is not a sword that I had ever planned on buying, but now that I've got it I'm glad that I did.
Special thanks to Mike Sigman who, having heard what I intended to use the sword for, exchanged the antiqued Castellan I had requested on his own initiative because the other antiqued Castellan was better suited for what I had in mind. Now that's customer service.
Thanks once again to the Albion team; I am looking forward to cleaning my sword up, and making a grip for her. Another fine piece by Albion Swords.
-- Craig P

9-14-11
...I am super excited that I received my Yeoman today and was blown away by the quality of work you amazing folks there have done, the sword is perfectly flawless!
I can not describe how happy I am and to have it
a few days before my 38th birthday is just an added bonus.
So thank you for being so wonderful for your customer service and thank you for having such talented craftsmen. This has been a brilliant experience for me buying my first sword and I shall treasure it forever.
Best regards,
-- Graham B

9-13-11
...I got my Yeoman sword Friday morning and it has hardly left my hands since! I just wanted to thank you everyone at Albion for the excellent work that was done to produce such a beautiful sword.
This was my first authentic sword I have purchased, so it has great sentimental value to me. I will definately be a repeat customer and look forward to purchasing from you all again! Thanks again,
-- Jason B

8-22-11
...I received my order, The Mercenary. I’m blown away by its quality and beauty. The fit and finish is excellent! You’ve exceeded my expectations!
When I get that itch again to purchase another sword, it will be from Albion.
Thank you so much.
Another happy customer,
-- Justin

8-17-11
...The Gallowglass came in today and it just reminded me why I buy from you guys. What I see on the website is exactly what I get.
Seriously it's a masterpiece.
Can't wait till I get the scratch together for another one. Thanks,
-- Tom C

8-10-11
...Got the Marxbruder on Wednesday. Thanks very much.
Been using it all week and what a beauty.
Up until now, I have been using an arming sword to practice messer work. It’s been okay but with the messer it’s been like night and day. It handles amazingly well and the feel of it is just incredible.
Absolutely thrilled with it. Thanks again.
-- James

7-20-11
... I have just received my Albion Arn Sword with a custom scabbard & belt made by Christian Fletcher. I am in a sound state characterized in awe. I have seen this sword in the movie, & I have also seen it online; but to actually see & hold it in person can only be described as motivational inspiration!
This is a sword truly fit for a Templar Lord. Simply magnificent!
The craftsmanship that is put into your creations is amazing. You guy's are connoisseur's, & make swords specifically for a connoisseur collector.
The handling, the detail, the fit & finish, & the fact that all of your swords are fully functional; is superb!
If & when the apocalypse comes, & there happens to be survivors living in a post apocalyptic world; eventually guns & ammunition are going to run out due to it not being produced any longer. We would have to take it back to the ways of the sword; & what better way to take it, than with an Albion...
I have one more Albion sword in the works right now with Christian Fletcher for a custom project using the Knight Blade; when that one is done, there shall be another! Many blessings to eveyone over there, especially to Peter Johnsson for giving Mike & the Albion staff the idea's to recreate historical masterpieces.
--Valentino

7-19-11
...Just wanted to say the Burgundian is superb. The subtle sculpting of the pommel and grip in a gothic/piscine motif is a beautiful compliment to the graceful lines of the blade itself, and the ox blood leather grip really pops in the sunlight. The handling is spectacular, it feels feather light but cuts with real authority.
The point control and thrusting ability still leave me stunned, I can place that point where I want it and know that it will carry through a light target like a hot knife through butter.
In fact I have fallen so much in love with it that I now need to order the I:33 Maestro so that I can safely practice my arming sword technique.
Thanks for the great service and products Mike, hope you're having a great summer!
-- Matt H

7-12-11
...Once again Albion proves to be the Elite Class of sword crafters.
I received my Knight Sword on Friday, much sooner than I thought I would, and it is superb.
This is my third Albion Sword. Together with my Arn and Templar swords, this will be a fine addition to my collection. As I have stated in the past, I have over 20 swords from other manufacturers and Albion is still the one to beat.
-- Michael M

6-27-11
...The Earl arrived on Saturday and it's perfect. Thank you so much.
BTW: Thanks again for your great customer service. Friends are having CS issues with other manufacturers - Emails not being responded to, orders just not getting filled or sent after payment was received.
I had none of these issues with ALBION. You handle your customers as well as you handle your sword crafting... excellent.
-- Chuck W

6-2-11
...Having owned several Albion swords for some time now, and having handled numerous others, I am confident that whenever I place an order for a new Albion I will be able to appreciate its handling, alongside its superb construction and beautiful form, even if I've never seen the sword in person before. Thanks for making such high quality recreations.
-- Craig P

5-5-11
...My SL Knightly just arrived today, and I have to say, it's a fantastic sword. The hilt is as solid as a rock, and the balance is almost unreal; the blade was so responsive to my hand that I would have sworn it had a mind of its own. Even when thrusting, the balance was such that I could manipulate the point with ease. I have a number of entry-level swords from other companies, but this one simply blows them out of the water; it's the first sword I've held that truly feels like "the real thing".
You, Mr. Sigman, have been a pleasure to deal with, and the craftsmen at Albion certainly know their stuff. It will be some time before I buy another sword, but when I do, it will definitely be an Albion blade.
- Ryan D

4-21-11
...Mike we have a unique saying in New Zealand. Many years ago David Tua who is a heavyweight boxer was on celebrity Wheel of Fortune and when asked for a vowel he said “O for awesome”. Well the Knecht is O for awesome. To be honest I have not cut with it much, but what cutting I did with it was effortless. I want to try it against some historically correct textile armour at some stage as a true test, but in my limited experience I am confident it has all the right elements to prove to be a superior weapon. I was surprised by its thick spine, but this makes for a rigid blade that would aid a great deal in cutting. The fact that it is single edged means the blade thickens in cross section very gradually, making for a blade geometry that is very acute and unlike anything I have seen in any of the other swords I have owned. Visually it is wicked to behold, the curve of the blade profile for some reason is especially intimidating. The grip which I think you said was English Oak, sits perfectly with the pommel cap and guard. There are no gaps and no variations between them. The sculpted lines of each element flows to the next perfectly, and the rivets in the grip are perfectly done, and sit just barely under the hollowed out face of the grip. The blade sits perfectly within the guard with no gaps whatsoever apart from of course where the fuller is.
Say thank you to Joe & Eric for their unsurpassed excellent work. Thanks also to you Mike for your excellent sales service as usual. May you all have a good break over Easter.
Cheers
-- Paul

2-22-11
...I am writing to inform you of how overjoyed I am with my Albion Mark Talhoffer. Its construction is utterly solid, and its handling characteristics could put to rest any doubt of the speed and maneuverability of the European Longsword. Every time I lift the sword, it just feels deadly, as if wanting to be wielded in combat. Its point control is exceptional, and the balance right by the hands give the sword such an agile feel. If ever there was an armor-fighting sword, I'd say the Talhoffer fills the billet. The rigid Type XVa feels amazingly adept at the half-sword, and the entire hilt offers the solid pommel and cross that could easily jar even an armored portion of the body. In spite of its thicker diamond cross section and heavy taper, the Talhoffer has proven to be a good cutter as well - I sure wouldn't want to be hewn by it! And that period half-wire wrap was like the icing on the cake.
In all, a superb weapon. I'm quite satisfied and I'll have to save up for another Albion purchase in the future!
-- NEIL B, 2d Lt, USAF

2-8-11
...It’s been a mission but I have finally received my pieces (Gallowglass and Caithness) from Christian… (he was great to deal with and very patient while I stuffed around with designs)…. I am very happy with the two pieces you have made for me (oh my goodness the Gallowglass is beautiful) and they are of a standard that even a picky guy like me is happy with, there obviously is a reason as to why you guys a regarded so highly in armoury circles. It was a pleasure dealing with you and rest assured as soon as more money can be afforded to my collection you will hear from me again.
Thanks again. Regards,
-- David C

11-9-10
...I thought I'd drop you a line regarding the Thegn
I ordered from you folks some time ago. After being given a 6 week wait estimate imagine my shock and awe when it arrived in about 10 days. That was just for openers. What a fine weapon! This sword is USABLE!!! A bit pricey, but then you gets what you pays for. Thanks again.
-- Dennis H

9-8-10
...I just wanted to let you know that my Chevalier arrived safe and sound yesterday. I was so excited I could hardly wait to leave work and get home to see if it had been delivered. As I was traveling home, I was a bit concerned because I had to drive through a torrential downpour and I wondered about the condition of the box. Upon arriving, I saw that the carrier had fortunately placed it back in the corner of my front porch near the door and that it was safe and dry.
The craftmanship of this sword is astounding. I am quite pleased with the oxblood grip with black over wrap. It gives just the right amount of contrast while still having an authentic historic appearance. The pinned diamond wrap pattern really sets this sword off with it's elegant beauty. This is a true masterpiece and it feels so light and agile in my hand. I have been waiting three years to purchase this sword and now that I finally have there are no regrets. I had to keep going back into the bedroom several times last night just to look at it again. Each time it seemed more beautiful than before. The fit and finish is unparalleled.
Please thank everyone at Albion that had a hand in the production of this sword and let them know my gratitude. They are truely masters at their trade.Thanks again,
-- Jim H

7-26-10
...I’ve been training with absolute garbage wasters. That was my very first impression when I went out in the backyard and did a simple florysh utilizing both edges of the Liechtenauer.
What an incredible learning tool you’ve made. I can’t thank you and your company enough for the hard work you do in designing and crafting these weapons. Thank you also for listening to feedback from RMA practitioners and taking that feedback seriously; it has resulted in a superb practice blunt. I sincerely appreciate your efforts.
I just put up a pell in my backyard and the Liechtenauer is perfect for pell work. It has given me an entirely new appreciation for the Art of Defence. Thanks again for the phenomenal craftsmanship.
-- Eric W
ARMA Northern NJ

7-19-10
...I just wanted to thank you, and the folks at Albion Swords for the Sovereign I ordered. It's simply amazing. I crafted my very first sword out of a bicycle handle, and a junk aluminum window frame (needless to say, my parents weren't thrilled about my one handed bike). I've also owned a few display swords over the years, when I've had the money, and they caught my eye. As cool as they all were to me at the time, they were all just objects, like anything else I owned.
This is not the case with the Sovereign I received.
This sword has a presence to it. I'm not sure if it's the fact that the sword is battle-ready, crafted to perform. I don't know if it's the design of the sword, the shimmering blade, the beautiful double fullers, or the regal hilt components. Or perhaps it's the way it welcomes your hand and feels like an extension of the arm as you weild it. Whatever the reason for this, I just have to say what a pleasure it is to own such a fine sword. The Sovereign is more than I could have hoped for, and I'm very glad I went to Albion Swords for my first "real" sword purchase. I'll be back to you soon for another request, after I spend some quality time with my new treasure.
Your very pleased customer,
-- Michael W

7-13-10
...The Baron came yesterday! 8-)
I must admit that every time I receive a sword from Albion, it is my favorite. I guess they are all favorites.
Different reasons albeit but, all are. These are the pride of my 'War Room'.
I take them (or some of them) to festivals on display at the Stuart Tent, everyone from adults to children are awed by them. I have been
taking private sword lessons and even the instructors are excited and envious of each as they arrive. My practice cutting session are exhilarating at minimum. Everything I do has a special underlying
reason to get a feel for what it was like for my ancestors and these swords are a massive part of that. Thank you again (& again) for the fine workmanship and customer service through 'thick and thin'. When Mary had her cancer challenge, you were very kind and willing to help
my acquisitions through that too. During these tough economic times, your payment plans have been most helpful. (Kept me from having withdrawal symptoms :-) )
Again, thank you Mike!!
-- Stephen S

7-7-10
....Mike, the Dane turned out to be everything I had imagined and more. It is just so freaking visceral. Everybody that sees and holds it is just wowed. Peter and you guys knocked it out of the park with this one.
Thanks,
-- Keith R

6-18-10
...It took me awhile to actually use my Liechtenauer (I broke my thumb the week before it arrived) but have finally done so this weekend.
I just wanted to say how truly impressed I am with the feeling this practice sword imparts. I do believe this will totally improve my understanding of the dynamics intended in this craft.
I also want to say how happy I have been with your customer service and timeliness in which you respond to inquiries.
Thank you very much.
-- Jonathan L

6-14-10
...Thank you ever so kindly all who were involved in the making of my very own Discerner sword.
You have truly made my dream come true.
It is everything I wanted it to be and so much more.
My family and I are so captivated by its legendary appeal.
This is the best.
The look, the feel and the handling is nothing short of epic.
Thanks again.
Safety and peace upon all of you at Albion.
-- Jocelyn M

5-13-10
...Wow, talk about making a big impression! I went to the post office at lunch today and brought the Dane back to the office to show the guys.
When I opened the box, they all went OOOH!
I can't believe how well balanced this sword is.
For such a large piece, it handles nimbly and gracefully, totally counter to what you'd expect, it's truly a surprising sword!
As always, the fit and finish is superb.
Thank you, and thanks to the good artisans at Albion for another masterpiece.
-- Eric S

5-11-10
... Man, did I get a surprise when I got home yesterday and found a long white box on the back porch. As I look at it, I was trying to figure out what I had ordered, and when I finally open it up, I found a beautiful sword inside.
It was the Decurio. I actually forgot about ordering this sword, but after seeing it, I glad I did. It’s a lot lighter then I thought it would be, and the handling is very quick and lively, at least that is how it seem to me. As for the finish of the blade and the wooden pommel, well, what can you say, it is what you can expect from Albion.
Another great sword from a great company. A big well done to all that worked on this sword.
-- Gerald J

5-6-09
... The Dane just arrived in perfect shape.
I am very glad I went with the campaign brown grip as it make the sword look like something came through a time warp from the 15th Century.
All of you at Albion have done an amazing production.
To say I am thrilled is the biggest understatement I have ever uttered.
You have really knocked my socks off.
The fit and finish are outstanding and as for holding this beauty, I wouldn't like to be on the receiving end.
My sincere compliments to all and thank you .
I think I will sleep with it next to me tonight although the wife might have something to say. Cheers,
--Peter C

...I know that the federschwerter that you guys make are pretty common now (no longer the huge fires that were burning when you first released them). But I really just had to write and say thanks.
I was training tonight with a fellow ARMA member, I threw a cut and he extended his Liechtenauer, and he got me SQUARE on my right deltoid. Because I was moving in, there was quite a bit of pressure on the tip. It hurt, but when we broke and I lifted my sleeve to inspect, I had a little groove in my shoulder, but no puncture. As I am writing this, it has bubbled up a bit, but it is nothing compared to what it would have been if I had been using any other blade.
Guys, Thank you. Thank you for great designs, great attention to detail, great customer service, fine quality control, and so many other things. You guys make amazing stuff, and I am proud to know you guys and happy to call you all friends. Keep up the good work!!
-- Jeremiah
ARMA-MKE

5-5-10
...Just letting you know the Dane arrived safe and sound.
The Dane looked sexy on the photos, but will blow you away in person.
That's the impression I got. It is just an absolute joy to wield. The wire wrapping is very attractive and works well with the oxblood leather. Looks aside, this is one of the most handy two-handed swords ever. Easily feels half its weight and moves like a sword half its size.
-- Vay

5-4-10
...Got the Dane last week and it's stunning.
The transition between the cross section of the ricasso and the blade, the dual tapering faceted hilt and pinned wire wrap, and the complex curves of the pommel are fascinating.
I've admired the proportions of the drawing for years but I was awestruck on opening the box. "Wow, that's some sword," I kept saying, "wow."
I like how robust the wire wrap is, and I'm very happy with the light brown, marbled texture of the leather grip which looks a lot like wood with the completely flat seam and flat facets.
In the hand it's massive and well balanced, and in motion feels like it would be irresistible.
It was definitely worth the wait and surpasses my expectations.
Thank you all for
doing such a superb job recreating this exotic weapon.
-- John G

...The Dane just arrived.
For all its size, it feels like a longsword, not a 2-hander.
It is a masterpiece.
Certainly, it is the nicest sword I own and the finest I have ever seen up close.
Thank you very much,
-- David B

4-13-10
...It's funny--I'm a fan of your website and for years I've read these long testimonials about how great your swords are. Blah, blah--I can see they're great. Besides (and this will turn to a compliment in a moment, so bear with me) I collect original smallswords and spadroons of the 18th century--so I've always been confident that I already knew what a great, well constructed, well-crafted sword was like. Why do these people blather on? Well. LOL.
Danger--blather to follow. Just like so many other customers, I received my "long box" and popped it open (with my sparring partner, as well as my wife and six-year old--a tough audience). To say that we were all immediately impressed with [The Liechtenauer] sparring sword's lines would be an understatement.
Superb--pure, in a way that so few things are pure. A real aesthetic achievement. But the true beauty of the piece lies in the moment of picking it up--a tactile pleasure, from the handle to the handling. Better swordsman than I have commented on the handling of this weapon--I found it as remarkable as the lines. I purchased mine to use in learning the techniques of the Italian master Fiero di Libiri. In the few days I've owned this piece, I've all but worn out my wrists--and I have strong wrists--playing, incessantly, with this weapon.
So--thanks. Thanks for taking the time to do this so well. Now I have to buy one for my sparring partner... sigh.
Your dedicated customer,
-- Christian C

PS: With your permission, I'd like to put a review of this fine weapon on my blog at www.hippeis.com
...I took delivery of my Decurio Spatha yesterday.
To say that I am thrilled would be a gross understatement.
I was very happy with the Auxilia, but this sword is in a different league in that it shows the variety which actually existed within the Spathae family. The fullered blade gives it a stronger physical presence an makes it stand out.
The Decurio seems to be an effective cutter as well as having a useable point. The hilt is comfortable and secure even in my large hands giving superb edge and point control.
As for the workmanship, it is simply flawless.
The walnut hilt is perfectly crafted and the double fullers are straight and true.
The rivet washer is a nice change from the standard rivet button used on the Auxilia and the Gladii.
This blade by the way is among the sharpest of all my Albions and the edge is perfectly formed.
All in all my friend this is another winner for Albion.
As for the discrepancies between the concept drawing and the finished product this is something we should learn to live with.
The day Peter is no longer allowed to implement new information in the prototype will be a sad day indeed.
Now bud, how about some migration period swords?
In Hoc Signo Vinces
-- Reiny 4-7-10
...Dreams Can Come True...
You must give my true best to Lars, and my profound thanks, Howy!
That covered, Howy, you know that your dream, the dream that has become Albion itself, is one of the most important dreams in today's world.
Here's what I mean: Knighthood, the honorable warrior, it has been mankind's dream since time immemorial. But, like pagan gods who lose their followings (and don't all gods who lose their followings become pagans, having lost their divinity), the dream of the honorable warrior was in very real risk of mere mythical status. Albion, by giving us true, battle ready swords, empowers us to reawaken our own inner warrior each day we wield one of your fine instuments....
I'll tell you this, Howy, the honorable warrior in me owes no man more for my dream than I owe you - well, you and Mike Sigman, and your entire team of dream masters.
1. When Frank Frazetta painted it [Bloodstone], it was his dream, and he brought it to life on canvas.
2. Then the masters at Albion studied his painting and it became their dream. They completed and posted their dream made real, and it became my dream to own one....
3. My dream came true yesterday, and later today I'll post a couple of photo albums showing my dream sword's arrival and first use outside!
So, I say again, dreams can come true.
- Pasquale
3-17-10
…The Aquilifer Has Landed…
Just a note to let you know my gladius arrived yesterday. It is truly a work of art in steel and wood.
The website images cannot do justice to the genuine article in hand. The balance makes it light as a feather.
As a student of history, I understand a bit better how the Romans conquered most of the known world.
I've made several friends very jealous, one envious with "fiery hatey hate".
Thanks for striking an item off my bucket list. Now I'm saving my pennies for the Crecy...
-- Scott D

3-1-10
...I went home for my 2 weeks leave and found my lovely large box... awaiting for me to open it!
The sword [Knecht] is just plain old SCARY. It is fantastic.
The quality of the work on it is WHY I buy expensive swords from Albion. I never have buyer's remorse with you guys and don't expect to ever have it.
"Expensive" is not the same as overpriced... you cannot buy quality for cheap.
I see these as investments in heritage - heirlooms to be passed along to the next generation.
Seriously, I brought the Knecht to our workout and the guys were drooling.It was good to take it out and have them swing it around and get a feel for it... to really get an idea of what a real dangerous sword feels like before going back to blunts for training. I have the 1st gen Crecy, and though it is not the "prime time" new styles you have now, it still remains a great tribute to your collective work and a great reminder of the danger of sword combat.
Please send my regards to all those there… if it weren't for Albion, I'd never have taken up swordsmanship as a martial art. So thanks to you all, again.
Thanks,
-- Tim

2-18-10
...I meant to write you some time back but things have been sorta crazy what with the double blizzards we were hit with and all that; let me just say this- I love it. I truly do. I have zero complaints. Yes, there’s a couple of casting pits on the guard, but the blade, grip and pommel are near-pristine and you need only grasp the hilt to get a sense of what this sword is for. I’ve read previous reviews in the past and I’ve always loved the ones that went super-verbose but I don’t think there’s much I can say about this sword other than…I really love it. Now my war kit is complete; and it came much earlier than I expected- you said two weeks but it was more like two days. That in itself is a funny story; I happened to be floored with H1N1 during the first blizzard and my wife was telling me that some large box had come but I was delirious and just assumed it was a gift for my sister, which I’d ordered some time ago. So a few days pass (closer to a week) and I got better (and my head cleared), I realized that I’d already received the item I’d gotten for her, so what was this unassuming white box sitting in the middle of my armory (that’s what I call my man-cave ya know)?
As soon as I opened the outer box and saw what was inside, I had to slow myself down; I have found that over-excitement coupled with sharp weapons can sometimes be a recipe for disaster so I did my best to remain calm but couldn’t help letting out a whoop of joy when I saw my sword inside that lovely wooden box. Strange as it may sound, I keep that sword by me during all my waking hours at home; I’ve had to stop myself from oiling it and wiping it down incessantly…I’m doing my best to keep from developing an unhealthy obsession with this sword but I fear its too late for that. Thanks again for your stellar customer service, patience and dedication to Albion; it shows my man, it shows.
We’ll be talking again one day…you have an entire catalog that just screams ‘OWN ME’ to me…I whisper ‘in due time, in due time’ to myself quite often; the cat thinks I’m nuts.
Sincerely,
-- Julius Diggs
Proud owner of his first Albion, the ARN sword 2-2-10
...If you had been a gunslinger you must have been quick on the draw.
My Lancaster arrived today and that was so fast I had to check that the glue on the grip had dried.
A superb and agile sword indeed. I do love my Poitiers, but the Lancaster has a much more visual presence.
I am only stymined by the choice of Lancaster as a name for her.
To me being an European (sort of) Lancaster is a geographic aeria. I would have preferred the name Lancastrian thus linking the sword with the fighting men of the War of the Roses. But then again who am I to pass judgement. The sword is in any case superb in form, function and execution. Easily as agile as the Poitiers and much better looking.
I have read Peters article on the mixing of components. I think you have the right idea of taking your time and releasing combinations which have been proven. To release a plethoria of customers wishes could result in a few less than optimal designs which could give Albion a bad name down the road. You gyus are known for getting it right and you should keep on that track.
I send you a winter expression curtecy of a friend in the Finnish Army. My climate is too dry for this and I assume yours is too. In any case these guys has their work cut out for them.
Well bud another highly satisfactory delivery and all the best for the upcoming weekend.
In Hoc Signo Vinces
-- Reiny

1-19-10
... I recently ordered and received my copy of the Agincourt.
Having a long association with ARMA, i've seen and handled several Albion pieces. I even helped John Clements evaluate an early version of the Talhoffer. I was very excited to finally have one of my own.
I must say, it handles excellently, perfect for the german and italian schools of fence.
I engaged in a little test cutting today, and i was astounded. Even though the Agincourt is more of a thruster, I was able to cut milk jugs with ease. I was able to perfectly execute even the more difficult cuts - like the schiel, zwerck, and krumphau. I was never able to cut very well with my museum replicas long swords.
Looking forward to my next purchase.
-- Ryan R 1-11-09
Hi there - just wanted to let you know that we have put up a banner on our front page to your website in support of you: http://www.freifechter.com
We are the Meyer Freifechter Guild, a HEMA martial arts group with 5 study groups in Florida and Illinois (more coming).
We are an old ARMA study group on our own and we just wanted to say we don't really participate in any commercial stuff or anything outside our training but we do however wholeheartedly support Albion Swords.
W e have approximately 6 Meyer swords and 2 Lichtenauer swords which we fight with regularly and beat the hell out of them and they have held up spectacularly (mine has lived through over 50 steel fights without a scratch.
We recommend you guys to all serious HEMA enthusiasts and plan on buying more swords as long as you guys are in business - please stay in business forever.
If you ever need the endorsement of a living martial HEMA group who fights regularly with steel look no further than us, we are possibly your biggest fans - and why not - you have a Meyer sword and our Guild is all about Joachim Meyer. We are the only HEMA organization devoted exclusively to the work of Joachim Meyer we fight with longsword, staff, dusack, rappier, dagger, wrestling and halberd and hope that all these weapons will one day be served by your fine company.
We thank you.
-- Mike C
Meyer Freifechter Guild South Florida Chapter
http://freifechter.com

10-19-09
...Stealthy ninja delivery eh? That was a pleasant surprise and what a fast turnaround, eight days from order to delivery.
The Ringeck is impressive, substantial, elegant, austere, and very, very pointy. It is a sobering object full of contrasts, grim and beautiful, dense and fine. The faceted pommel is a scene stealer, the facets meet exactly. I really like the dual curves of the guard, the waisted grip is comfortable, practical and visually interesting, and the light brown campaign finish is just the color I wanted.
There's nothing about the sword I don't like, it's perfect. Please pass along my thanks to everyone involved in making it, you've created both a tool and a work of art.
-- John G.

... Just received the Knecht II messer. What a big ,beautiful sword. I am very pleased with the finish and personally I like the changes to this model.
Another success for Albion. Thanks to all who helped make this sword and once again thank you, Mike.
All the best,
-- Peter C.

10-1-09
...I just wanted to let you know that the Kingmaker arrived last Thursday and having spent the weekend with the sword I can safely say that Albion's quality and craftsmanship are second to none! She really is a beauty of a sword and a an absolute dream to handle! The blade feels so lively and well balanced in the hand, and the hollow ground steel is a sight to behold! The antique coloring on the guard and pommel came out really well, surpassing my expectations! In short, I just want to thank you again for top notch customer service and an excellent product! I would be more than happy to do business wit the folks at Albion again in the near future!
--Tim

9-30-09
...I just got back off leave to find that infamous white box waiting for me. I had high expectations from your team. I will say that you not only met them, you all exceeded them by far. The Solingen is easily one of the most beautiful weapons I have ever seen or weilded. Even with no excessive ornamentation or decorations, the sword retains an intrinsic beauty as great as its most certain lethality. It feels incredible in the hand, I know it is there and I very much know what it is capable of, but it does not feel awkward or inferior in any way. I thank you, and yours for this awesome gift. Please give everyone there at the Albion Armory my best wishes. As for you Mike, you sir are definitely the epitome of what customer service should be. You can expect more orders from me in the future. Again, thank you.
-- Logan

9-29-09
...I have read comments on your swords on internet…the main difference with using a Albion versus another sword is the quality of the blade…when you have an impact the stength received is better absorbed by the blade …this gives a lighter impact to my old joints…I am almost 50 so I really feel this difference…and also the fact that the blade absorbs the energy of the impact increases the speed of your reaction since you can use the energy provided by the impact to respond to your opponent…our teacher shows us to use the energy of the impact received… So, with a better blade than your opponent, you have a little help.
-- François P

9-24-09
...My Castellan arrived safe and sound yesterday. Flawless work again guys! I would almost call this a single handed sword that is capable of being used with both hands if you need more power. Fascinating design! when looking at pictures I was expecting a weapon that would be almost dainty. This sword is nothing of the sort. True it is light and handles exceptionally well and it is an extremely beautiful sword but when you hold it in your hand for the first time it gives a feeling of solid power. A very functional and capable weapon that can be used just as devastatingly effective single handedly on horseback or with both hands on foot. Wickedly sharp point but with a cross section that would still make it a surprisingly good cutter. I love the fact that Albion gives us a chance to examine the different historical designs of swords and compare them to one another. Great work again.
Now I just need to figure out which sword next. I have several that I’m looking at right now. Are there any models getting close to selling out (I still kick myself over the Valkyrja). And as always feel free to use any of this e-mail for whatever and I have no issues if you change any of the wording to make more sense or to flow better. Also it is always nice to be able to look at something before buying so if there is anybody in my area around Great Falls, MT that would like to come look at any of my albions feel free to give them my contact info. Currently I only own a Landgraf, Vigil, and Castellan. Thanks again.
-- Rusty T 9-22-09
Thanks for putting up with the manic madcap. I could of just asked for the damn tracking code, but the batinage was too funny too stop.
Need to ponder this saber [Lady Vivamus] a bit.
For the moment it's hovering next to the computer atop one of those walnut pedestal stands I got from Albion.
It is most definitely what I would class a "Heavy Cav Sword". It looks rather plain. But when a "saberman" picks it up it is so obviously a friggin technical masterpiece. For 2.75 pounds it is amazingly supple. It handles point attacks with rock steady assurance. It has the balance to counterstroke. With that prussian pistol grip it leverages a thunderous cut and slash.
Have to be careful with wrist moves, too much here will tear you up: but it is still possible. Accept the limits of a closed fist and use of the elbow and you can manipulate with only a minor reduction of range of options.
It is tiring to fight with. But will keep up with lighter weapons; or hold them off with the 35 inch reach.
The hilt and it's furniture is very handsome. For myself, I would have preferred another inch of handle in exchange for a 1.25 inch blade. Better balanced and less fatiguing.
This is a celebration of the 19th Century Cavalry Sword and a triumph of the makers art. I feel so very privileged to share this.
No bull. I'm eatin this up. HUZZAH!!
-- Dave K 9-11-09
I wanted to let you know that I received my Albion [Reeve] sword Tuesday and it was absolutely thrilling to hold it in my hands. It was perfection in every detail from fit, finish, balance, and handling to period looks. More than that, it was history recreated in my hand.
Please tell everyone at Albion, thank you for me. They did an excellent job. This sword will be on display in a place of honor in my home as a work of art and history. If I have need of it for defense it will not fail for lack of quality or workmanship.
There is something magical about a sword and the people of Albion have helped to recreate this magic.
-- Harry F