Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword Review

What Makes the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword Stand Out?

For years, the allure of historical arms has drawn me. I’ve spent over a decade working with gear in every conceivable environment, from dusty workshops to sterile labs and unforgiving outdoor expeditions. This extensive background has cultivated a keen eye for quality and practicality. My search for a robust, historically inspired piece, one that genuinely felt like an extension of past warriors, led me to the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword. It’s a significant piece, demanding respect for its sheer presence and the craftsmanship it represents. My previous experiences with historical reproductions have been varied, often leaving me wanting more in terms of authentic feel and actual usability. The promise of a well-balanced, functional greatsword from a reputable manufacturer like Cold Steel was too tempting to ignore. Upon arrival, the initial impression was one of solid, unyielding construction, hinting at a tool designed for more than just display.

The need for such a piece for me wasn’t about historical reenactment in the traditional sense, but rather a personal quest for a tangible connection to a bygone era and a formidable tool for specific types of conditioning. Many replicas lean heavily on aesthetics, sacrificing structural integrity or proper balance. I had looked at other high-end custom makers, but their price points were astronomical, and some even more “authentic” models lacked the practical features I was seeking. This Cold Steel offering, however, seemed to hit a sweet spot between historical inspiration and modern manufacturing prowess, promising a usable tool without an unobtainable price tag. My first interaction with the sword was surprisingly positive; it felt substantial yet remarkably maneuverable for its size, immediately dispelling any doubts about it being merely a decorative piece.

Unpacking the Beast: First Impressions

The moment I unwrapped the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword, the sheer scale of the weapon became immediately apparent. It’s not a sword to be trifled with, designed from the ground up to command attention. The blade gleams with a clean, polished finish, indicative of meticulous attention to detail in its manufacturing. The substantial weight is immediately noticeable, but it’s the distribution of that weight that truly surprises. This isn’t a clunky, unbalanced piece; instead, it feels grounded, ready for action.

The handle, wrapped in traditional leather, offers a reassuring grip, promising to hold up under strenuous use. There’s a palpable sense of Cold Steel’s dedication to producing durable, functional replicas, and this great sword is no exception to that reputation. While I had considered simpler, more decorative wall-hangers, my goal was always a functional piece, and the initial feel of this sword suggested it would certainly fit that bill. It’s a tool that inspires confidence from the very first touch, a satisfying counterpoint to the sometimes flimsy replicas I’ve encountered in the past.

Real-World Testing: Putting the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this imposing blade took place in a controlled environment, essentially a large, cleared outdoor space on my property that serves as my personal training area. Given its size, I was eager to see how it handled in sweeping motions and basic stances. The sheer length requires a significant amount of space to swing safely, a factor anyone considering this sword must account for. I focused on basic movements, feeling out the balance and the heft through the arc of the swing.

The Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword felt surprisingly responsive. Despite its considerable weight, the balance point is well-managed, allowing for relatively fluid motion once you adapt to the sheer mass you’re wielding. I did notice that even with the leather-wrapped grip, extended use without gloves can lead to some hand fatigue, a natural consequence of managing such a large implement. There were no unexpected rattles or loose parts, just the solid thud of steel meeting air.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several weeks of dedicated practice, the great sword has proven itself to be a remarkably durable and reliable piece of equipment. My routine involves regular, albeit controlled, practice sessions, focusing on form, strength building, and simply the satisfaction of wielding such a historically significant weapon. I’ve yet to see any significant wear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs from being carefully leaned against a padded surface when not in use. The 1060 carbon steel blade has shown no signs of flexing or damage from these controlled movements.

Maintaining this sword is straightforward; a light oiling after each session keeps the blade protected from any potential humidity, and the leather grip requires minimal attention beyond ensuring it remains dry. Compared to previous attempts with lighter, less substantial swords that quickly developed issues like loose pommels or chipped edges, this Cold Steel model feels built to endure. It’s a robust tool that lives up to its “battle ready” description in terms of construction.

Breaking Down the Features of the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword

Specifications

The Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword 88WGS boasts a substantial set of specifications designed for impact and historical resonance. It features a formidable 39 7/8 inch blade forged from 1060 carbon steel, a material chosen for its excellent balance of strength, edge retention, and resilience. The blade thickness comes in at a robust 0.22 inches, providing significant mass for cutting power.

The handle measures a generous 15 3/8 inches, providing ample real estate for a full two-handed grip, crucial for controlling such a large weapon. This grip is finished with durable, stitched leather over a wooden core, offering both comfort and a secure hold. The overall length of the sword is an impressive 55 1/4 inches, making it a true display of its type.

Weighing in at a considerable 109.5 ounces (approximately 6 pounds 13.5 ounces), this sword is undeniably heavy, but its distribution is key. The blade finish is a polished, clean look, and the handle finish is a satin application of the leather. This model is a plain edge, eschewing any serrations for a pure cutting profile, and it does not come with a scabbard.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of a great sword is its ability to deliver powerful cuts and thrusts, and the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword excels in this regard. Its substantial weight, coupled with the long, broad blade, makes for incredibly impactful swings, even when executing them with controlled, deliberate movements. The balance, while leaning slightly towards the blade, is managed effectively by the substantial pommel, making it surprisingly agile for its size.

The 1060 carbon steel holds an edge reasonably well, though its primary strength lies in its sheer toughness and resistance to chipping or bending under stress. For its intended purpose as a functional piece that can handle significant use, its performance is commendable. It delivers on the promise of being a powerful implement, capable of impressive sweeping motions and controlled thrusts that feel historically accurate in their application.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword is a clear homage to historical European great swords. Its long, double-edged blade tapers elegantly to a point, and the crossguard is substantial, featuring integral parrying hooks and side rings. These elements are not merely decorative; the guard provides excellent hand protection, a critical feature when dealing with any bladed weapon, and the hooks can indeed be used for blade shortening or binding.

The long, leather-wrapped handle is ergonomically designed to accommodate a full two-handed grip, allowing for maximum leverage and control. The weight distribution, as previously mentioned, is surprisingly good, preventing the feeling of the sword being unwieldy or top-heavy. The heavy steel pommel serves not only as a counterweight but also as an effective secondary weapon in close quarters, rounding out its practical design.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword is built like a tank. The 1060 carbon steel is known for its robustness and ability to withstand significant force without deforming. The construction feels incredibly solid; there are no rattles, no loose fittings, and the blade appears to be securely tang-mounted throughout the handle.

Maintenance is straightforward: regular cleaning and a light application of oil to the blade will prevent rust and preserve the steel’s integrity. The leather grip will benefit from occasional conditioning if exposed to harsh conditions, but for typical use, it should remain in excellent condition for a long time. This sword is designed for hard use and longevity, and its construction reflects that ethos.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model of the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword is offered as a standalone item and does not include a scabbard. This is a significant omission for a practical, usable sword of this size, as safe storage and transport are paramount. The sheer length makes it cumbersome without a proper sheath, which will likely need to be acquired separately from a custom maker or a specialist supplier.

Beyond the lack of a scabbard, there are no other significant customization options offered with this specific model. Its strength lies in its inherent design and materials, rather than modular components. While some might seek custom grip wraps or alternative pommels, the stock configuration is already well-executed.

Pros and Cons of the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword

Who Should Buy the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword?

The Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword is an excellent choice for individuals who appreciate historical arms and seek a robust, functional piece for training, conditioning, or display. Enthusiasts of historical European martial arts (HEMA) who practice with longsword forms will find its balance and weight profile familiar and well-suited for study. Those looking to incorporate a significant physical challenge into their training regimen will also benefit from its considerable mass.

However, this sword is not recommended for casual collectors who want a purely decorative item, nor for individuals lacking the physical strength or stamina to wield a weapon of this size and weight safely. Beginners in sword training might find it overwhelming, and those with limited space for practice should reconsider. Potential buyers should also be prepared to invest in a custom-made scabbard for safe handling and storage.

Conclusion on the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword

The Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword stands as a testament to Cold Steel‘s commitment to producing functional, high-quality replicas of historical weaponry. Its impressive 1060 carbon steel blade, coupled with a well-balanced design and robust construction, makes it a formidable tool for training and a visually striking piece for display. The substantial weight is a deliberate feature, offering a unique and challenging workout that connects the user to the physical demands of wielding such a weapon historically.

While the lack of an included scabbard is a notable oversight that adds an extra cost and inconvenience, it does little to detract from the sword’s inherent quality and performance. For the enthusiast seeking an authentic, usable great sword without venturing into bespoke custom prices, this model represents excellent value. I would confidently recommend the Cold Steel Two Handed Great Sword to those with the physical capability and the dedication to its care and safe use, offering a genuinely satisfying experience for the serious practitioner or admirer of historical arms.