Excalibur - Military Swords
Michalis "BIG Mike" Kotzakolios
Kotzakoliou, SSA

Military swords have helped the defense forces guard their motherland for several centuries. These swords are the memorabilia of the rich tradition of valor and sacrifice of the fighters who safeguarded our boundaries. Carrying of military swords thus, becomes a matter of great pride for the fighters and their family members. Warriors who braved the extremities of climates and the aggression of enemy forces were honored with specially built swords for their extraordinary courage. Nowadays, the replicas of military swords are available for purchase in specialized stores and online shops. You will find such swords on display, in almost all online and offline antique shops. Before you fancy becoming the proud owner of one, it would be better for you to learn the tradition and legacy associated with such military swords.

American swords have evolved from the European swords. The antique military swords, which date back to 1821, are more or less curved. But after 1821, military swords tended to be straighter. The stars you find in the swords may represent the number of States in the Union at the time of manufacture. The etching of the blade also becomes deeper and clearer by the advent of the 20th century. The designing of blade and hilt of the military swords were different for different ages. Curved, straight or grooved to different levels, they were all made for perfectly balanced handling. The height of the warrior, the length of his hand and his ability of handling the sword, also tailored the length of the military swords.

Military personnel, while purchasing swords will look for the hilt, forte, blade, grip, and knuckle bow. Each part of the military swords has its own importance in the date line. If the blade is somewhat curved, we can safely assume that it is one among the oldest. If straight, you can see it has a history of less than two hundred years. The scabbards will also have the same shape as the sword and accommodate the sword well within.

Traditionally, companies like Nathan Ames built swords for the American armed forces. They have also been imported from Great Britain, Germany, Belgium, and from different parts of Europe. Nowadays, the production of these swords is almost completely outside the United States, at places with lower labor costs. Call that the effects of Business Process Outsourcing! The government specifications for these swords include the manufacturing of the swords from stainless steel, well polished, detailed and grooved to specific standards.

These swords are today exhibited with pride with formal military dress. Special occasions like promotions and weddings are also times to proudly showcase the military swords.