Unleash Adventure: The Best Places to Buy Swords in the UK — A Buyer's Guide

Why buy a sword in the UK?

Thinking about adding a sword to your collection or picking up your first blade? You're not alone. The UK has a vibrant market for swords — from carefully reproduced medieval arming swords to elegant katanas and decorative pieces for the mantel. Buying in the UK gives you easier returns, local warranties from some sellers, and a chance to inspect a piece in person at specialist fairs or shops. Whether you're a reenactor, martial artist, or collector, the ride from curiosity to owning a sword can feel like stepping into a story — and the right shop makes that journey smooth.

Types of swords you'll find

Swords come in many shapes, sizes, and purposes. Knowing the type you want narrows the search and helps you choose the right seller. Below are the main families of blades you'll encounter on UK sites and marketplaces.

European arming swords and cut-and-thrust blades

These are classic medieval single-handed swords, often about 30 to 36 inches long and usually weighing around 2 to 3 pounds. They're versatile for historical fencing and display. If you're hunting for historical accuracy and balance, look for reputable makers who publish measurements like blade length, overall length, and weight in pounds so you know what to expect when you swing it.

Longswords and two-handed swords

Longswords typically range from 40 to 50 inches in overall length and can weigh 3 to 5 pounds, depending on construction. These are popular for historical European martial arts (HEMA) practitioners. When buying, balance point and blade profile matter more than the raw length — it’s the pounds and inches on the handle and blade together that determine how the sword feels in practice.

Katanas and eastern blades

Katanas and other Asian swords vary, but a typical katana often has a blade around 24 to 30 inches. Traditional katanas prioritize curvature and cutting geometry; modern reproductions might focus on aesthetics or cutting performance. If cutting is your goal, check blade thickness and tang construction; for display, focus on fittings and polish.

Decorative, theatrical, and fantasy swords

Not every sword is built for cutting or combat recreation. Decorative swords prioritize looks and may use lighter metals or simplified construction. They’re perfect for props, cosplay, or room décor. Keep in mind that display pieces often weigh less and don’t have the heat treatment or tang construction of functional blades.

Marketplaces and general platforms in the UK

For breadth and convenience, general marketplaces are often the starting point. They let you compare dozens of sellers quickly, read reviews, and spot bargains.

Amazon UK

Amazon UK is a huge place to start. You’ll find everything from budget decorative swords to branded reproductions that ship to the UK. The advantage is quick searching, visible reviews, and a range of price points. The downside? Product descriptions can sometimes be thin, so dig into pictures and seller reviews before buying.

eBay UK

eBay UK is where you can find unique secondhand pieces, auctions for antique blades, and the occasional great deal on collectible swords. Auctions can be thrilling, but remember to factor in condition and authentication — old swords may need expert inspection. Look for sellers with clear photos and a history of positive feedback.

Etsy UK

Etsy UK often features independent makers and craftspeople who make bespoke or small-batch swords and blades. If you want something handmade or custom-fit, Etsy can connect you with a bladesmith who will build to your specs. Expect to communicate closely with makers and allow time for custom work to be completed.

Specialist UK retailers and workshops

If you want expertise and historical accuracy, specialist retailers and workshops are where the real gems are found. These sellers focus on swords and related kit, and they typically provide detailed specs and knowledgeable support.

Reputable reproduction makers available to UK buyers

Worldwide makers who supply the UK market — and local UK distributors — often offer historically accurate reproductions. These companies publish detailed measurements, blade profiles, and materials so collectors and practitioners can compare models in inches and pounds. If precision matters to you, these specialist outlets are worth exploring.

Independent British bladesmiths and cutlers

The UK has a proud history of independent bladesmiths who handcraft swords in small batches or individually. Working directly with a UK bladesmith can get you a sword tailored to your measurement preferences — think blade length in inches, weight in pounds, and a custom balance point. This route is perfect if you want a unique piece with a story behind it.

Brick-and-mortar historical and reenactment shops

Across the UK there are shops that cater to reenactors, theatre, and martial arts clubs. Visiting in person lets you feel a sword’s weight, test balance, and see finish details up close. If there’s a sword fair or medieval market near you, it’s a great way to try multiple blades in one afternoon and chat with makers and sellers face to face.

Auction houses and antique dealers

Looking for an authentic antique or museum-quality blade? UK auction houses and antique dealers occasionally list swords and polearms of historical importance. Auction houses like the big-name houses sometimes handle militaria and edged weapons. When buying antiques, demand provenance and condition reports. Authentication is everything, and a small restoration can dramatically change value.

What to look for when choosing a sword

Buying a sword is partly practical and partly emotional — you want something that feels right and looks great. Here are the concrete factors to weigh before you press “buy.”

Purpose: display, cutting, or training?

First, decide what you want the sword to do. If it’s for display, aesthetics and fittings come first. For cutting or HEMA practice, you need proper heat treatment, a correct tang, and reliable geometry. Training swords, including blunt “feders” or synthetic trainers, prioritize safety and durability over edge retention.

Materials and construction

Steel type, tang construction, and heat treatment make the biggest difference in durability and performance. High-carbon steels are common for functional blades because they hold an edge and can be hardened, while stainless steels are more rust-resistant for display but may be brittle. Full-tang construction — where the blade continues through the handle — is a sign of strength and is typically described with measurements like maximum blade thickness in inches and total length in inches.

Balance and weight

How heavy is the sword in pounds and where is the balance point? A lighter sword with the balance near the guard often feels quick and agile; a heavier sword with balance toward the blade gives more chopping power. Reputable sellers provide weight in pounds and point-of-balance measurements, letting you compare models objectively without handling them first.

Fittings and authenticity

Look at pommel construction, guard fit, and scabbard quality. For historical reproductions, details like fuller placement and forging marks matter. For katanas, expect details such as tang pin count and mekugi placement. If a seller provides close-up photos of the tang or maker’s stamp, that’s a good sign they’re transparent about provenance and build.

Legal and safety considerations in the UK

Owning a sword is different from owning a pocketknife. UK law around bladed weapons is precise and you should be responsible. While rules change and can vary by situation, the safe approach is to check current legal guidance before purchasing, avoid carrying blades in public, and keep swords secured at home. When in doubt, consult official government resources or legal advice to ensure you’re on the right side of the law.

Tips for getting the best deal

Buying a sword can be an investment, but you can find bargains if you know where to look. Here are practical tips to make your budget go further.

Compare listings and read reviews

Use marketplaces and specialist shops side-by-side. Read buyer feedback and look for sellers who show detailed photos and measurements in inches and pounds. If many buyers praise a model’s balance or finish, you’re likely looking at a dependable option.

Consider secondhand and estate pieces

Secondhand markets like auctions and specialist resale sites can reveal great deals. Inspect condition closely or ask for in-hand photos of details like the blade tang and scabbard. When buying used, factor in potential maintenance costs for rust removal or re-fitting.

Ask questions before you buy

Contact the seller with specific questions: blade steel, heat treatment, tang type, and exact measurements. A responsive seller who answers in inches and pounds and provides clear photos is more likely to stand behind their product.

Maintaining your sword

Once you’ve brought a sword home, maintenance keeps it beautiful and safe. A little effort goes a long way.

Cleaning and oiling

Wipe your blade after handling to remove oils and moisture, then apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust. For carbon steel blades, regular oiling and occasional light polishing preserves the finish. Keep the blade dry and store horizontally or hung upright to avoid warping over time.

Sharpening and professional care

If you plan to use your sword for cutting, sharpening is a skilled job. Many owners rely on professional swordsmiths or cutlers to set the edge and check tempering. For antiques, never attempt aggressive restoration without expert advice; improper work can wipe out historical value.

Storage and display

Store your sword in a dry place away from direct sunlight or high humidity. If displaying in a scabbard, ensure the scabbard material won’t trap moisture against the blade. Consider a wall mount or stand made of breathable materials to prevent moisture buildup.

Finding community and testing before buying

One of the best ways to find the right sword is to get hands-on experience. Join a local HEMA club, reenactment group, or martial arts school. These communities are welcoming and let you try different blade lengths and weights in real practice, so when you buy online you won’t be guessing.

Final thoughts before you decide

Buying a sword in the UK is a mix of research, community, and personal taste. Whether you go for a historically accurate reproduction from a specialist, a handmade piece from an independent bladesmith, or a carefully selected secondhand find, make sure the seller provides clear details in inches and pounds and stands behind quality. Treat the purchase like acquiring a small work of living history — with respect, patience, and curiosity — and you’ll end up with a piece that excites you for years.

Conclusion

Choosing where to buy a sword in the UK comes down to three things: knowing what you want, buying from sellers who provide honest measurements and photos, and looking after your blade once it’s yours. From big marketplaces to small independent bladesmiths and auction houses, there are plenty of trustworthy routes to find the right sword. Take your time, test where possible, ask the right questions, and you’ll enjoy the thrill of unboxing something that carries weight — literally and figuratively — into your collection.