Cold SteelEnglish Back Sword, 32", Black

I collect medieval period reproduction arms and armor. I am a student of the Longsword. I own several Cold Steel swords, as well as a few Cold Steel pole arms. I trust their quality; Cold Steel has never let me down with a shoddy reproduction piece or modernized arms of medieval origin. This English Backsword is no exception. My primary historical interests center in the High Middle Ages (1300's -1450's-ish), but this English Backsword is one of those semi-iconic 'transition' blades in sword evolution. Single-edge, basket-hilt, sharp point...at that time, the shape of things to come. This is a cut and thrust sword, and though single-edged, it maintains its strait, long, blade (unlike the cutlass, calvary Sabre, hanger, etc. which utilize a curved blade for powerful slashing.). This Cold Steel version is solidly constructed, and very handsome in appearance. I read in feedback, other buyers complaining regarding the material of the handle (imitation stingray skin). It suffices (the material) in its attempt at historic accuracy, and it seems durable enough, so I have no qualms about it. Were this an Albion version English Backsword, then I would insist on authentic stingray, certainly. The accompanying scabbard is also very handsome, and suits the sword perfectly, both items complimenting each other in appeal. However, for the first time ever of my Cold Steel purchases, the sword-seating design of this scabbard is problematic. Within the scabbard are two plastic strips: fastened to the opposing inner-walls of the scabbard, these are to guide the blade as it slides in place, as you seat your sword. Both of the ones in my scabbard came completely out after a couple times of withdrawing and replacing the sword in the scabbard. I have fixed the issue, and didn't consider returning the entire item for this flaw. I read in feedback that this has happened to more than a couple buyers. My advice to potential buyers is to be advised of this flaw before you buy: those of us who own one of these; be advised NOT to discard the two plastic strips or mangle them. I used mine again in my repair of this scabbard problem. Overall, despite this scabbard issue, I am still very pleased with this Cold Steel English Backsword.

I have done my research on this regal backsword for months and observed the praises and compliments of other customers; thus, it motivated me to finally take the plunge on purchasing.The artwork of the guard and fittings of the sheath are well done, and I love the antiques detail that was used for them. The blade is firm but has a little flex on the last part of it. It possesses a nice edge and was tested on paper towel folded four times. Furthermore, the distal taper is outstanding and it aids in the finesse of the sword as a whole. I am able to cut and thrust with this sword with ease. The sheath provides a sturdy home for the backsword while remaining handsome its own right. It is able to fit in my sheath well and pulls out without to much resistance. I will need to test its durability at another time, but I would advise readers to not treat this sword as an axe, a iron bar, or a machete, because this is a masterpiece made for the art of Swordsmanship and not savagery.I highly recommend the Cold Steel Backsword as a wonderful addition to any sword master's or collector's collection.

The quality is fantastic. Blade is sharp, well balanced and the finish is outstanding. The guard and hilt surpassed all my expectations

This sword came neatly packaged, and of course, covered in storage grease. It's amazing how many people don't expect storage grease, but you're talking about a mass produced metal item that's going to be on a warehouse shelf for an indefinite period of time waiting on a cheap sword nerd like me to buy it. It's balance is good. Noticed no warp in the blade, and its super sharp. The hand guard is definitely from a poured mold, and has very hard edges. If you're in love with everything else and have a dremel handy, you can dress the guard up for more comfortable handling. The sheath was spot on, sword drops right into it and has that final audible "thk". Overall pleased with the budget sword. There's a reason handforged swords cost up into the thousands. There's also reasons mass produced swords are priced in the lower hundreds. Don't expect a master blacksmith to have poured his heart and soul into this thing. It was made to chop soda bottles in the back yard and look cool on the occasional Ren Faire outfit, safety tied in a frog or baldric of course.

I cannot claim to be a knowledgeable collector of replica swords (I do have a Confederate cavalry saber hanging on the wall above my desk). I'll leave reviews concerning important technical terminology to serious collectors. However, I can claim to having once being a swordsman; I fenced during all my college years and beyond, sixty years ago. My weapon of choice was always "le sabre". I still have several, now rusted. Now, in my later years, I decided I wanted something close to the "real" thing. The English Back Sword was the closest I could find. It's a cut and thrust weapon with one cutting edge, a similar guard, and close in length to a fencing saber. My "Cold Steel English Back Sword" arrived today, and I'm delighted. Its edge is surprisingly sharp, and the point is serious business. This is definitely not a theatric toy. The construction is solid. If there are any defects, I can't see them. I will not address balance of the sword, but I will say I was surprised by its weight. At six pounds, it is more than six times the weight of my fencing sabers. I find both sword and scabbard pleasing to the eye. The sword arrived promptly, carefully packaged, undamaged. I now have it displayed next to my memories from long ago.