Medieval Swords - Grip

The grip is the part of the sword you actually hold in your hand. It is critical that this part fit well in the user's hand, that it not slip out of the hand at inopportune moments. Note that some swords have ferrules - rings of metal on each end of the grip helping to hold it in place.



The hand forged sword has a leather-wrapped grip with a spiral of metal wire around the top to hold the leather in place.



The Charles V sword has a silver thread wrapped grip beneath a gold thread wrapped grip I created for better holding surface.



I am planning to leather wrap this wooden training sword's grip for better holding surface.



For comparison, here is my Japanese katana, with its fabric wrapped grip. Note the "menuki" - or decorative object that you can see beneath the wrap. This was to help your hand hold onto the sword better, to help keep it from slipping out of place.



Parts of a Sword
Medieval Swords and Swordfighting

Medieval Conflict
Medieval Bows and Arrows
Medieval Keeps and Castles
Medieval Weapons

Life in Medieval Days

Academy of Knightly Arts - Live Sword Training School in New England


Lisa's Medieval Romances
Seeking the Truth
Knowing Yourself
A Sense of Duty


Online Literary Magazines

Lisa Shea Website Main Page