Short sword styles

[js19]

Hey guys, I ordered a 1/4 thick x 2 wide x 18 1/2 long piece of 5160. Upon arrival I realized this is a good chunk of steel, and instead of making 2 very thick knives out of it, i'm going to make a short sword/thick machete/big knife. Going to be a 4-5" handle with a 13-14" blade. My question being, what sort of short sword styles do you guys like? What would be the best short sword to make out of this?

At first I was thinking a Wakizashi, but being 2" wide I have some options to making something a little different.


Anyway, what would you guys make if you were in my situation? A large bowie? A short cutlass? Maybe even a small roman type sword?


Lets go!


Thanks again

 

[Hesparus]

My favorite styles of short sword are (in no particular order):
gladius (particularly hispanensis and maintz)
Wakzashi
Grosses messer
Cutlass
Langseax

Chris

 

[12345678910]

Smatchet

 

[js19]

I really like that Langseax and its brother/sister styles. I think i'm leaning towards something more like this now - https://list.valvesoftware.com/Hossom_Kopis01-ww.jpg A nice kopis.

This assassins creed swords would be neat to make as well - http://img4.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20121104201559/assassinscreed/images/d/de/AC1_Short_Blade.png

Or a nice Wakizashi like this - http://new.uniquejapan.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/uj047_kinmichi_full_9501.jpg If I make a Wak, it wont be as curved as the traditional one, more straight.

 

[Hengelo_77]

Any of the sugestions made here would be good choice imho
Please keep us posted with your plan and progress.
WIP

 

[abbydaddy]

You might also think about a hunting hanger. There's considerable variety, but they are a fun style. They also lend themselves to filework and other light ornamentation. Here's a link to one http://www.myarmoury.com/review_ve_hanger.html

 

[Lance23]

The modern copis like you linked too would be epic.
A Copis tops my list of short sword styles, followed closely by the Wakizashi.

 

[mete]

1/4" is too thin for a proper Roman Gladius .They are also about 24 " blades

 

[David Stifle]

Here's some short swords I made. You don't have to follow any particular pattern or type of sword. It's yours, you can make it what you want and any way you want. Just have fun.