Peter Johnsson Sword Smith -- The making of a Messer sword part I

Peter Johnsson Sword Smith -- The making of a Messer sword part I.

The sword Peter is working on is of a type known as "Messer", German for "Knife".

These were weapons that were popular in the 15th and 16th centuries among both working classes and the nobility. Some were very basic in their fit and finish, others were finely weapons of the highest quality. Regardless, they all were very functional and practical weapons.

The blade that is seen in the video is of intermediate size. Perhaps it can be labeled a "bastard sword" version of the messer: it can be used well in one or both hands. Originals come in sizes both smaller and larger than this.

Inspiration for this messer is an original in a private collection in Germany.

The guard will feature a side ring. All messer-type swords have a device for protecting the knuckles of the leading hand. In most cases this was a wing like projection that was riveted through the guard and blade. The side ring that is to be mounted on this example is not so commonly seen on originals, even if it does exist.

Grip is self supporting: another feature that is not the most common for Messer blades: most had grip slabs riveted on to the tang. In this case the grip will be held in place with wooden pegs, instead of tubular rivets. This is according to the original. Grip will be covered with leather to increase stability and purchase. The protruding end of the tang will be riveted down over a semi circular strap that will reinforce the ends of the grip.

In style this weapon relates to messers from the early 16th Century.

When completed the weapon will weigh around 950 grams, with a total length of some 105 cm and a blade length of 80 cm. Guard, side ring and grip end mount will all be file worked with roping, cross hatching and zoomorphic details.

A weapon such as this would have been owned by someone who wished to express wealth and class.

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Comment: lines on the guard at 3:44 is only pen marks for visualisation of how it will look.

This is not Peter Johnsson's youtube account. I can't answer questions. I am only a admirer showing his work in his workshop. I actually stumbled into his workshop by chance, since I knew where he worked and he has his workshop close to a friend of mine. Therefore I missed the making of the blade. But more will come.

Camera: Magnus Tamelander.
Canon 5D mark II.

Category:

Science & Technology

Tags:

• Sword
• Peter Johnsson
• sword smith
• sword smithing
• Messer sword
• Messer

[TheJakePowning]

lovely Peter!