Synthetic Messer Sparring Sword

Messer, meaning “knife” in German, refers to a family of single-edged weapons with knife-style hilts. Prominent in the 15th to 16th centuries across Germanic lands, the Messer also held a utilitarian role in everyday life. It eventually became so popular that it appears in historical treatises by fencing masters such as Albrecht Dürer, Hans Talhoffer, and Johannes Lecküchner.

Red Dragon Armoury’s Synthetic Messer Sparring Sword is built to endure the demands of sparring and drilling in modern Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) practice. Incredibly tough, its modular design allows for customization, and Red Dragon Armoury calls it an ideal starting point for beginners that still holds up to heavy use. 

Every part is made in the United Kingdom, and the blade and guard are built from a special blend of high-impact polymer. Rubber-like thermoplastic elastomer grips provide a tight fit on the tang and are designed to absorb the impact of strikes in combat. This piece is completed by an Oakeshott T5  “scent stopper” pommel, made from a special blend of polymer and powdered metal that adds weight beyond what polymer alone can provide.