Which Sword Though? A Buyer's Guide for HEMA Practitioners

Many students discover Academie Duello through our storefront window, captivated by people swinging swords inside. That initial fascination often drives students to eventually purchase their own weapons.

But sword shopping can feel overwhelming for beginners. Not all swords are created equal, and the market ranges from wall-hanger decorations to museum-quality reproductions. Here’s a curated guide to reputable merchants respected within the Historical European Martial Arts community.

Academie Duello

The school itself offers beginner-friendly options from Kingston Arms, VAS, and Castille. We stock affordable starter weapons that suit newcomers well. While these lack deep customization, they’re designed for training and will serve you through your first several years of practice.

Hours: 11am–8pm daily

Regenyei

Highly regarded for tournament feders, this Hungarian maker offers extensive customization across sword types. If you want a specific blade length, weight balance, or handle configuration, Regenyei can accommodate.

Lead times: Typically 3 months Recommendation: Order directly from Hungary rather than through North American dealers for better communication and pricing.

Albion

Described as the “gold standard” among sword enthusiasts, Albion produces both expensive collector pieces and the more affordable Maestro line designed for practitioners. Quality is exceptional - these are swords built to last generations.

Lead times: Often exceed one year Note: Best for experienced practitioners who know exactly what they want and are willing to wait for it.

Castille Armory

This Oregon-based workshop offers both economy options and build-it-yourself approaches using premade parts. They’re happy to discuss customization via email consultation before you order.

Turnover: 10–14 weeks Best for: Practitioners who want quality without Albion prices

Darkwood Armory

Similar assembly-based approach to Castille, emphasizing function over aesthetics. Particularly popular with rapier students, Darkwood offers excellent affordability and repair-friendliness. Parts can be replaced individually if damaged.

Best for: First-time buyers, rapier practitioners

Ask Around

The best way to find your ideal sword is to ask fellow students about their choices and experiences. Hold their weapons, feel the balance, ask what they love and what they’d change. Every practitioner has opinions, and most are happy to share them.

Your first sword doesn’t need to be perfect. It needs to be functional, safe for training, and affordable enough that you won’t hesitate to use it. Save the custom masterpiece for when you know exactly what you want.