A greatsword is the largest class of European sword, a two-handed blade built for reach and power. Full greatswords such as the German zweihander run 150 to 175 cm (59 to 69 in) overall and weigh 1.4 to 3.2 kg (3 to 7 lb), while the Scottish claymore is a touch smaller at around 140 cm (55 in). These were battlefield and duelling weapons of the 15th and 16th centuries, wielded by specialist soldiers to break pike formations and dominate open ground.
The main types of greatsword
- Zweihander: the German two-hander, up to 175 cm (69 in), often with a long ricasso and side lugs (parierhaken) so the wielder could grip above the guard.
- Claymore: the Scottish highland greatsword, about 140 cm (55 in), known for its forward-sloping V-shaped quillons ending in quatrefoils.
- Spadone / montante: the Italian and Iberian great sword, taught in its own duelling traditions well into the Renaissance.
How our greatswords are forged
Every greatsword here is hand-forged, heat-treated, and built full tang, so the steel runs unbroken from tip to pommel. On a blade this long, full-tang construction and correct heat treatment are what keep it from bending or snapping under load. We forge in high-carbon and spring steels chosen to handle the leverage of a two-handed swing.
| Steel | Best for | Character |
|---|---|---|
| 1095 high-carbon | Cutting | Hard, keeps a keen edge, needs oiling |
| 9260 spring steel | Impact and flex | Extremely resilient, springs back from heavy blows |
| Stainless | Display | Low upkeep, best for wall and costume pieces |
Greatsword vs longsword
The difference is scale. A longsword runs 90 to 110 cm (35 to 43 in) in the blade at 1.1 to 1.8 kg (2.4 to 4 lb) and is the standard weapon of modern sparring. A greatsword is longer and heavier, built purely for two-handed reach and power rather than speed. If you want a versatile middle ground, the hand-and-a-half bastard sword sits between the two.
Choosing a greatsword
Because of their length and mass, most greatswords are bought as statement display pieces and collector centrepieces. If you intend to cut or drill with one, choose a spring-steel blade and see our battle-ready swords, and confirm your training space can handle the sweep of a blade this size. For pure display, a stainless greatsword gives the imposing look with minimal upkeep.
Caring for your greatsword
Wipe a carbon-steel blade after handling, apply a thin film of oil, and store it dry, ideally on a horizontal rack that supports the full length. Skin oils are acidic, so remove fingerprints promptly. Every greatsword ships free worldwide with duties covered and a 30-day return window.
Frequently asked questions
How big is a greatsword?
A full greatsword such as a zweihander runs 150 to 175 cm (59 to 69 in) overall and weighs 1.4 to 3.2 kg (3 to 7 lb). A Scottish claymore is smaller at around 140 cm (55 in).
What is the difference between a greatsword and a longsword?
A longsword has a 90 to 110 cm (35 to 43 in) blade at 1.1 to 1.8 kg (2.4 to 4 lb) and is used one grip in two hands. A greatsword is significantly longer and heavier, built for two-handed reach and power rather than speed.
Were greatswords too heavy to use?
No. Even large zweihanders topped out around 3.2 kg (7 lb) and were carefully balanced. They were wielded by trained specialist soldiers to break pike formations, not the impractical slabs of steel often shown in fiction.
What is a claymore?
A claymore is the Scottish two-handed greatsword, about 140 cm (55 in) long, recognisable by its forward-sloping V-shaped crossguard ending in quatrefoil rings.
Are your greatswords functional?
Yes. Each greatsword is hand-forged full tang from high-carbon or spring steel and heat-treated. Spring-steel models handle cutting and impact, while stainless versions are made for display.
Do you ship greatswords worldwide?
Yes. All greatswords ship free worldwide with import duties and taxes covered, backed by a 30-day return window and a lifetime craftsmanship guarantee.