Cold SteelEnglish Back Sword, 32", Black

I have done my research on this regal backsword for months and observed the praises and compliments of other customers; thus, it motivated me to finally take the plunge on purchasing.The artwork of the guard and fittings of the sheath are well done, and I love the antiques detail that was used for them. The blade is firm but has a little flex on the last part of it. It possesses a nice edge and was tested on paper towel folded four times. Furthermore, the distal taper is outstanding and it aids in the finesse of the sword as a whole. I am able to cut and thrust with this sword with ease. The sheath provides a sturdy home for the backsword while remaining handsome its own right. It is able to fit in my sheath well and pulls out without to much resistance. I will need to test its durability at another time, but I would advise readers to not treat this sword as an axe, a iron bar, or a machete, because this is a masterpiece made for the art of Swordsmanship and not savagery.I highly recommend the Cold Steel Backsword as a wonderful addition to any sword master's or collector's collection.

I collect medieval period reproduction arms and armor. I am a student of the Longsword. I own several Cold Steel swords, as well as a few Cold Steel pole arms. I trust their quality; Cold Steel has never let me down with a shoddy reproduction piece or modernized arms of medieval origin. This English Backsword is no exception. My primary historical interests center in the High Middle Ages (1300's -1450's-ish), but this English Backsword is one of those semi-iconic 'transition' blades in sword evolution. Single-edge, basket-hilt, sharp point...at that time, the shape of things to come. This is a cut and thrust sword, and though single-edged, it maintains its strait, long, blade (unlike the cutlass, calvary Sabre, hanger, etc. which utilize a curved blade for powerful slashing.). This Cold Steel version is solidly constructed, and very handsome in appearance. I read in feedback, other buyers complaining regarding the material of the handle (imitation stingray skin). It suffices (the material) in its attempt at historic accuracy, and it seems durable enough, so I have no qualms about it. Were this an Albion version English Backsword, then I would insist on authentic stingray, certainly. The accompanying scabbard is also very handsome, and suits the sword perfectly, both items complimenting each other in appeal. However, for the first time ever of my Cold Steel purchases, the sword-seating design of this scabbard is problematic. Within the scabbard are two plastic strips: fastened to the opposing inner-walls of the scabbard, these are to guide the blade as it slides in place, as you seat your sword. Both of the ones in my scabbard came completely out after a couple times of withdrawing and replacing the sword in the scabbard. I have fixed the issue, and didn't consider returning the entire item for this flaw. I read in feedback that this has happened to more than a couple buyers. My advice to potential buyers is to be advised of this flaw before you buy: those of us who own one of these; be advised NOT to discard the two plastic strips or mangle them. I used mine again in my repair of this scabbard problem. Overall, despite this scabbard issue, I am still very pleased with this Cold Steel English Backsword.

The quality is fantastic. Blade is sharp, well balanced and the finish is outstanding. The guard and hilt surpassed all my expectations

I got this on sale in the low 200s. For that, it really is a nice blade. It comes well-oilded and packed. Grip is ok (not fantastic) and balance isn't unwieldy. Some of the reviews say about a rough spot on the metal grip winding. On mine, the lower winding is just fine and it is only a little rough under a bare finger on the top side if my hand is firm against the guard, where it shouldn't be. The blade edge does have a little ripple as it moves from hilt to point, but you need to look at the edge upright in good light to notice. Blade sharpness isn't uniform the whole length either. Has sharper areas. It isn't too bad though. I don't see the nut at the bottom of the full tang loosening over time, since the guard holds it firm on 3 points. This honestly seems like a pretty well made sword for not much more than a decorative piece. This isn't $1000 sword quality, but in the sub-500 category I think it holds its own. I don't regret the purchase. I got a frog off a leather worker on Etsy and it makes a nice combo.

I had been admiring the Cold Steel English Back Sword for some time now. It's an interesting piece given it's one of those transition blades. Not quite a broad sword and certainly not a rapier. I spotted it for under $200 and grabbed it. I'm so glad I did. Sword came well packed in a cardboard box that had additional bracing and was wrapped in heavy plastic. The blade was coted in a heavy grease to protect it. Sheath and leather stop were separately packed. Slightly heaver than my Scottish gentleman's basket hilted sword, it also only has a single edge. Feels solid and not too heavy. Haven't tried cutting yet, but it feels good and balanced in the hand. Basket is large and fits my hand fine. I have not experienced any pinching from the handle. I think the hilt is meant to copy sharkskin with a wire warp. Unfortunately this does not appear to be the case here. It feels like plastic, but at least has a texture to it. Did not detract any from my review, obviously. For the price, you can't beat it.