What Type of Sword Did Kings Use in the Middle Ages? A Complete Guide

The swords of kings in the Middle Ages were far more than just weapons; they were symbols of power, authority, and personal prestige. It was the sword that told tales of battles won, dynasties preserved, and royal ceremonies performed. A sword really showed whether a king was rich, tasteful, and skillful-it expressed the martial culture of medieval Europe.

From the battlefield to the coronation throne, a king's sword had both practical and ceremonial roles. In this guide, we look at everything concerning these iconic weapons, including: what type of sword did kings use in the Middle Ages?

 

What is a Medieval King's Sword?

The sword was more than just a means of defense to a medieval king; it was almost like a statement. These swords were symbolic of legal authority, noble lineage, and military prowess, hence making them attractive both on the battlefield and outside it. Some of the most important features of a king's sword included:

●      Superior craftsmanship with attractive, precise design.

●      High-carbon-steel blades capable of withstanding battle.

●      Hilt decorations in gold, silver, and precious stones.

●      Durable design for use with either one or both hands in combat.

The swords of kings were battle-ready yet ceremonial, serving in coronations, oaths, and processions of royalty. They personified the king's role as protector, leader, and symbol of the realm.

 

What Swords Did Medieval Kings Use?

While the choice often depended on the era and region, there were some dominant types of swords that Medieval Kings used:

1. Arming Sword

●      Single handed-straight blade

●      Balanced for both thrusting and slashing

●      Often fought with a shield by its side

2. Longsword

●      Two-handed grip for extra power

●      Effective in duels, on open fields of battle

●      Both symbolized chivalry and noble authority.

3. Falchion

●      Curved blade designed for chopping

●      Lightweight, thus easy to handle

●      Often used in ceremonial contexts

4. Greatsword

●      Large, heavy blade for open combat

●      Required Skill and Strength

●      Represented dominance and royal prestige 

Each one was serving a double purpose: functional for battle and symbolic in ceremonial life. Some kings even commissioned distinctive designs to show off their personal style or heraldic symbols.

 

What Materials Were Used in Medieval Kings’ Swords?

Only the finest metals and materials ensured durability, beauty, and status. Here is what materials were used in medieval kings' swords?

 

Material Type	Purpose	Durability	Common Use
High-carbon steel	Blade strength & sharpness	Excellent	Battle and ceremonial
Iron	Core reinforcement	Good	Base construction
Silver	Decoration	Moderate	Hilt, engravings
Gold	Luxury and prestige	Soft	Inlay, pommel, accents
Leather & wood	Handle wrapping & grip	Good	Hilt construction

 

Using strong steel with metals of luxury combined to make the swords not only functional but also stunning to behold, a true testament to a king's stature.

 

How Were Medieval Royal Swords Made?

Manufacturing a king’s sword was an elaborate combination of science and art. Step-by-step process of how were medieval royal swords made? 

●      Forging: The blade involved heating high-carbon steel and hammering it into a strong yet supple shape.

●      Folding and Tempering: Folding enhances toughness and resistance to breakage.

●      Hilt: It is made of wood, with leather wrapping and decoration with gold, silver, and precious stones.

●      Engravings and Decorations: Inscriptions, heraldic symbols, and jewels distinguished royal swords.

●      Polishing and Sharpening: The final blade was both battle-ready and ceremonial-ready.

Every sword had its peculiarities and revealed the taste of a king, as well as the work of a blacksmith's hand. Some of them even carried inscriptions of prayers, blessings, or victories on their blades, which made each piece a witness to history.

 

Which Sword Was Popular Among Medieval Kings?

The arming sword and longsword were most in use:

●      Arming Sword: Practical for everyday use and fighting, and light enough to be carried anywhere with minimal maintenance.

●      Longsword: Prestigious and versatile, used in duels, open battles, and royal ceremonies.

 Falchions and greatswords were rather specialized, often a statement of status and martial skill rather than utility. Even today, collectors and reenactors seek out authentic replicas to relive the era.

 

What Weapons Were Used by Medieval Royalty?

While swords are the primary weapons, kings also used other weapons to complement their arsenal:

●      Daggers: Light and perfect for close combat or defense.

●      Maces and War Hammers: Effective against armored foes.

●      Lances: Used in jousts and cavalry charges.

●      Crossbows: Gave the ability to fight from a distance.

These weapons allowed medieval kings to adapt themselves in different battle situations, emphasizing strategy and versatility.

Historical Anecdotes: Swords and Kings

The most famous swords in history came with legendary stories:

●      Excalibur: A mythical sword said to be King Arthur’s and a symbol of divine kingship.

●      Joyeuse: It was the coronation sword of Charlemagne, used in coronation ceremonies for a thousand years.

●      The Sword of Saint Maurice: A symbol of military leadership in European monarchies.

More than tools, these swords were a symbol of power, legitimacy, and legacy.

 

Choosing the Best Medieval Sword Today

Collectors or enthusiasts might find:

●      Purpose: Reenactment or display

●      Design: Arming sword, longsword, or ceremonial blade

●      Material: High carbon steel for durability.

●      Craftsmanship: The design of accurate history adds authenticity.

You can own a piece of history today and appreciate the craft of medieval swords.

 

Wrapping Up

Medieval kings' swords were far more than just weapons of war; they symbolized authority, skill, and prestige. From the useful arming sword to the ceremonial long sword, each sword had a history to convey and signify. 

For those wondering, “What did medieval kings use for swords?” the answer is clear. It is a combination of either arming swords or longswords, or perhaps falchions and greatswords.

Battling Blades is an online shopping destination for collectors, reenactors, and anyone interested in history who wants historical replicas of quality swords. The swords at Battling Blades enable you to live the historical experience of the medieval royal class.

 

FAQs

1. What was the king’s daily use of the sword?

Ans. While kings would primarily have an arming sword as a functional weapon, they would also have a ceremonial long sword for royal duties.

2. How heavy were royal swords?

Ans. Royal swords were typically between 2.5 and 4 pounds and designed for combat functionality and control. 

3. Were all royal swords ceremonial?

Ans. While many swords were functional, there were also some that were created solely for the purpose of being used in ceremonies.

4. How were the royal swords decorated?

Ans. The royal swords were typically decorated through engraving, inlaying of gemstones, and gilding of the hilt to signify their royal status.

5. Can modern replicas be made to the same specifications as past swords?

Ans. Numerous companies produce historically accurate and quality replicas that are produced for use by collectors and reenactors alike.