Not every broadsword needs to be large to make an impression. At 32" overall, this short Damascus broadsword keeps the wide, double-edged blade the family is known for in a compact, one-handed package. The blade is hand-forged from 352-layer Damascus steel, so its flowing pattern is unique to this sword.
Browse every size in our broadsword collection, step up to the 39" Damascus broadsword for a longer blade in the same steel, or see the 40" 1095 steel broadsword for a classic plain steel finish.
Why a Shorter Broadsword
A shorter blade brings the sword's balance point closer to the hand, so it feels lively and controlled rather than blade-heavy. It is also easier to display: a 32" sword fits comfortably on a wall mount, a desk stand or inside a shadow box where a full-length sword would not. For collectors, it is a natural companion piece to a longer sword in the same steel.
352-Layer Damascus Steel
The billet is built from 11 pieces of two carbon steels: five of 1095 and six of 15N20. 1095 is prized for hardness and edge retention. 15N20 contributes toughness, and because its nickel content resists the acid etch, its layers show up bright against the darker 1095. The two steels carry similar carbon levels, so they forge-weld cleanly and harden evenly in a single heat treatment.
That billet is forge-welded, drawn out and folded five times, doubling the layers with each fold:
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Start: 11 layers
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Fold 1: 22 layers
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Fold 2: 44 layers
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Fold 3: 88 layers
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Fold 4: 176 layers
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Fold 5: 352 layers
Grinding and etching the finished blade reveals those layers as the pattern you see. Because every billet folds a little differently, no two blades match.
Built to a Real Standard
Each sword is hand-forged, heat treated, sharpened and fitted before it ships from our Illinois warehouse. We call that battle ready as a construction standard: genuine forged steel, proper hardening and a solid hilt, rather than a soft decorative blade on a pinned handle.
Leather Scabbard Included
A fitted leather scabbard protects the sharpened edge for transport and display. Since leather holds moisture, store the oiled blade outside the scabbard for the long term.
The One-Handed Broadsword in History
Medieval Europe's everyday sword was a one-handed, double-edged blade with a cross guard, known today as the arming sword or knightly sword. "Broadsword" is a later word, coined once wide cutting blades needed a name to set them apart from the slender rapier and smallsword. Modern collectors use it for straight European swords with a substantial blade at any length, and compact examples like this one reflect the shorter sidearms that were common alongside full-length swords. For more one-handed medieval designs, see our Crusader Knight Sword, Oakeshott Type XII.
Specifications
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Overall length: 32"
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Blade material: 352-layer Damascus steel (1095 and 15N20)
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Construction: 11-piece billet, five folds
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Edge: Sharpened, double-edged
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Weight (sword): approximately 3 lbs
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Included: Fitted leather scabbard
Caring for Damascus Steel
Both steels in this blade are carbon steels, so it is not stainless. After handling, wipe away fingerprints and moisture and apply a light coat of mineral oil or sword oil. Keep it in a dry spot and look it over occasionally for surface spots. The edge is sharp, so wipe from spine to edge and store the sword out of reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 32" sword still a broadsword?
Yes. Broadsword describes the blade, a straight, wide, double-edged profile, rather than a set length. Historical one-handed swords ranged widely in size, and a 32" sword with a broad blade sits comfortably in that family.
How much does it weigh?
Approximately 2 lbs 10 oz, or about 3 lbs 5 oz in its leather scabbard.
Is the blade sharpened?
Yes. It ships with a sharpened, double-edged blade and should be handled accordingly. Sales are limited to adults 18 and over.
What is the difference between this and your 39" Damascus broadsword?
Both are forged from the same 352-layer Damascus steel. The 39" model has a longer 32" blade and more presence on the wall, while this 32" model is more compact, sits lighter in the hand and fits smaller display spaces.
Is this an arming sword?
The terms overlap. "Arming sword" is the modern name for the one-handed medieval sword with a cross guard, and many collectors would call a sword of this form either one. We list it as a broadsword because of its wide, double-edged blade.
Is Damascus steel stainless?
No. This Damascus is made from two carbon steels, so a quick wipe and a light coat of oil after handling are all it needs to stay in top condition.
