Crusader Sword from Haifa coast, 12thC
Reconstruction of the Possible Crusader's sword found in the sea near Haifa, 1100-1200.
The sword had been retrieved from the sea in 2021 by a diver and was fully covered with sea growths. Thanks to the provided data and X-ray photos, it was possible to determine the original appearance of the sword, although only the process of conservation and future analyzes will guarantee certainty as to the original parameters of the sword.
My reconstruction was based on certain compromises (related to obvious limitations) and on analogous examples of swords with similar proportions and from this period.
So, this is my interpretation of this sword. I think that full and certain reconstruction of this sword will be possible only after some time.
Reconstruction / interpretation
I used the parameters of the find that were officially provided and of which we can be sure.
Blade length 880mm
it could be originally slightly longer (around 900mm), but the shape of the tip does not clearly confirm this
Blade width 46mm
it seems that the blade was slightly wider originally, and the narrower edge under the crossguard may be the result of corrosion, although in this type of sword this width is in appropriate range
Crossguard length 310mm
you can't speculate here because the X-ray shows this length, it is unusual, one of the longest crossguards, I made it according to the data
Pommel is very massive in the X-ray image, but there is no exact data, perhaps due to its spatial form. In the reconstruction, I used compromise and data from other swords, maintaining the type and proportions of the original pommel. Perhaps it is originally slightly thicker but it is impossible to be sure about that measure at the moment. I decided that this compromise would be a good solution and the effect satisfies me
Characteristics
This sword is not light (1450g), but swords from this period with similar proportions are also rather heavy. The normal weight range here is 1300-1600g. Despite this, the long blade maintains proper stiffness and good balance makes the handling very good. The abnormally long crossguard, 310 mm long, does not interfere with the sword's maneuvers, and is also a second-hand weapon in close combat, as well as protection for the hand and forearm. The sword as a whole has beautiful proportions, is well balanced and maneuverable. It could be a sword for a rider, but it would be equally effective in the hands of a foot soldier.
Measurements:
total length 1045mm
bladse length 880mm
blade width 48mm
blade thickness (base) 6mm
grip 105mm
crossguard 310mm
pommel 56x53x37mm
balance 115mm
weight 1450g
sharp