A broadsword earns its name from the blade: wide and double-edged, built with a presence narrower swords can't match. This 39" Damascus broadsword pairs a 32" blade with a compact hilt for classic one-handed medieval proportions, and forges it in 352-layer Damascus steel, so every blade carries its own flowing grain pattern. No two are alike.
Browse the full broadsword collection, or compare it with our 38" 1095 steel broadsword, a hand-and-a-half design with a longer grip.
The Damascus Steel
Each billet starts as 11 pieces: five of 1095 high carbon steel and six of 15N20. The pairing is deliberate. 1095 brings hardness and edge retention. 15N20 brings toughness, and its nickel content resists the acid etch, so its layers stay bright against the darker 1095. The two steels have closely matched carbon levels, which means they bond cleanly in the weld and respond evenly to a single heat treatment. The result is a Damascus steel sword where strength and beauty come from the same source.
How the 352 Layers Build
The stacked billet is forge-welded, drawn out, cut and folded back on itself five times. Each fold doubles the layer count:
-
Starting billet: 11 layers (5 of 1095, 6 of 15N20)
-
1st fold: 11 × 2 = 22 layers
-
2nd fold: 22 × 2 = 44 layers
-
3rd fold: 44 × 2 = 88 layers
-
4th fold: 88 × 2 = 176 layers
-
5th fold: 176 × 2 = 352 layers
The pattern on the finished blade is those 352 layers exposed by grinding and etching. It is a record of how the steel was made, not a surface decoration.
Hand-Forged Construction
The blade is hand-forged and heat treated, then fitted and sharpened before it leaves our Illinois warehouse. This is a battle-ready build in the construction sense: real forged steel, proper heat treatment and a solid, properly fitted hilt, the opposite of a wall hanger with a soft blade and a decorative pin.
Fitted Leather Scabbard
A fitted leather scabbard is included to protect the sharpened edge in transport and on display. Leather holds moisture, so for long-term storage keep the blade oiled and out of the scabbard in a dry place.
A Brief History of the Broadsword
"Broadsword" was never one precise medieval classification. The term became common in the early modern period, when swords with wide, double-edged blades were set apart from the slender thrusting swords then coming into fashion, such as the rapier and smallsword. Many of the best-known historical broadswords were basket-hilted Scottish swords. Today collectors use the name more broadly for straight European swords with a substantial blade, including the medieval broadsword forms that inspired this piece.
With a 32" blade and a compact grip, this sword belongs to the one-handed side of the family. Collectors looking for a longer grip will find it in our bastard swords and longswords.
A Sword Worth Displaying
The broad blade shows off the Damascus pattern better than almost any other sword form, which makes this piece a natural centerpiece on a wall mount or display stand. It's a strong choice for collectors building out a medieval collection, and a memorable gift for anyone who appreciates real craftsmanship.
Specifications
-
Overall length: 39"
-
Blade length: 32"
-
Blade material: 352-layer Damascus steel (1095 and 15N20)
-
Construction: 11-piece billet, five folds (22, 44, 88, 176, 352 layers)
-
Edge: Sharpened, double-edged
-
Weight (sword): approximately 3 lbs 5 oz
-
Included: Fitted leather scabbard
Sword Care
Both steels in this blade are carbon steels, so it is not stainless. Wipe the blade clean after handling to remove fingerprints and moisture, then apply a thin coat of mineral oil or sword oil. Store it in a dry place and check it periodically for surface spots. Because the edge is sharpened, always wipe from spine to edge and store the sword out of reach of children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a real Damascus steel sword?
Yes. The blade is pattern-welded from 11 pieces of 1095 and 15N20 steel, folded five times to 352 layers. The pattern comes from the steel itself, not an etched or printed surface.
How much does this broadsword weigh?
Approximately 3 lbs 5 oz, or about 3 lbs 12 oz in its leather scabbard. That is in line with historical one-handed broadswords, which were far lighter than most people expect.
Is the blade sharpened?
Yes. It ships with a sharpened, double-edged blade and should be handled and stored accordingly. Sales are limited to adults 18 and over.
Does it come with a scabbard?
Yes, a fitted leather scabbard is included. Use it for transport and display, and store the oiled blade outside it long-term, since leather holds moisture.
Why combine 1095 and 15N20 steel?
1095 gives hardness and edge retention, and 15N20 adds toughness. Their similar carbon content lets them weld cleanly and heat treat evenly, and the nickel in 15N20 creates the bright contrast that makes the Damascus pattern visible.
What is the difference between a broadsword and a longsword?
A broadsword is generally a one-handed sword with a broad, straight, double-edged blade. A longsword has an extended grip made for two hands and longer overall proportions. This sword sits in the one-handed broadsword family.
What is the difference between a broadsword and a claymore?
"Claymore" refers to two Scottish swords: an earlier large two-handed sword with forward-sloping quillons, and a later basket-hilted broadsword. This sword is smaller than the two-handed claymore and has no basket hilt, but all three share the broad, straight blade that defines the broadsword family. See our claymore collection for both styles.
Is Damascus steel stainless?
No. Both steels in this blade are carbon steels, so it can rust if left with fingerprints or moisture on it. A quick wipe and a light coat of oil after handling keeps it in excellent condition.
