Grosse is German for great and messer is German for knife. That’s essentially what this sword is, a Great Knife. Unlike typical swords, this two-handed weapon is constructed like a knife, with a single-edged blade and a full tang with riveted scales for the grip. First appearing in the late 1440s, messer-hilted arms were also used in other European nations, with local or regional names. Examples have been discovered in the Netherlands and Northern France, Iceland, Sweden, and the Baltic Nations, in the central European nations of Poland, Czechia, Hungary, and Romania, and to the south of Germany in Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia, and northern parts of the Balkan nations.

This is a devastating chopping weapon, but the keen clip point can poke some serious holes. The fuller is extra broad to lighten the blade. The hilt features a wide, straight guard that flares slightly at the ends. To protect the hand, a nagel protrudes from the right side of the cross-guard perpendicular to the flat of the blade. The ebony-stained wood scales are secured with heavy-duty rivets. It includes a top-quality, genuine leather scabbard with metal throat and chape.

The 1075 high carbon steel has a darkened, battle-hardened finish, so it’s well protected from the frequent rust spots and stains that occur so often from everyday practice and exposure to the elements. The blade has a full tang and is tempered to a low 50s RC. This pre-sharpened blade has gone through rigorous testing. The hands-on nature of the manufacturing by master smiths makes this line unique.

Includes a certificate of authenticity signed by each smith that touched your blade through every step of the forging process. Also includes “Battlecry” sticker. Made by Windlass Steelcrafts – Swords Don’t Need Reloading™.