Michael ‘Tinker’ Pearce has designed a series of swords made by Hanwei in 5160 steel, which emphasise authenticity, functionality & performance. To satisfy the sparring & cutting needs of Western Martial Artist, each of the 4 styles being made in live (sharp) & sparring (blunt) versions, each sword has outstanding handling characteristics. The carefully controlled heat treating of 5160 (Tinker’s blade steel of choice) by the ‘Marquenching’ process produces - excellent toughness & flexibility at a hardness of HRc 50-52 allowing for superior edge retention on the sharps, anti burr & tip-flexing safety features on the blunts. The Early Medieval Swords (Oakeshott Type X11) are designed so that the Sharp and Blunt versions with identical handling characteristics. The sharp (SH2404) is fullered for about two thirds of its length, with a flattened out diamond section out towards the tip. The blunt (SH2405) uses a broad, flat fuller to move mass towards the edges for safety while retaining a lively feel. The cruciform hilt is attractive and functional. Leather covered scabbard are included. Replacement blades are available for all swords in the series, a key feature of Tinker’s designs is the interchange ability of blades within each pair of swords with the exception of the Viking, allowing the user to purchase 1 complete sword & a spare blade to enjoy both versions. The Longswords, Bastard & Early Medieval all feature Tinker’s recessed sleeve nut mounting system, providing secure hilt retention, tightening & easy blade exchange using an Allen wrench (not provided).