Opinions needed about a schlachtschwert / zweihander

[Luka Borscak]

I also found this about the mark...

[ulfberth]

Thank you for the extra pictures, however the pictures of the surface of the metal are not clear enough. I will post some pictures of an original Stantler sword so you can see what I mean with surface of the metal visible , also now you can compare an original to the two you have and compare. The one I show also has the diamond shaped pommel as described in the Wallace collection, please notice that here the rust or black spots are in the metal not on top of it as it seems on yours, please compare the stamps although both Stantler stamps the one on your sword is in brand new condition or .... Perhaps if you post pictures like these we can say more of the swords are 16th century as the remarkable fresh stamp implies.

[Victrix]

I’m no expert on zweihänders but they were novelties even during their time, some more than others. Arms in Eastern Europe sometimes also appear outsized compared to Western Europe. Difficult to judge the swords from pictures but the one on the left looks more convincing to my novice eyes. I would take the swords to a museum or the like for a more expert opinion.

[ulfberth]

Well I don't want to rule out any possibilities, but I can say with one hundred percent certainty: if these two are original you have hit the jackpot ! Stantler swords are very valuable and the one with knots at the end of the crossguard is extremely rare as an original. Now you can compare and examine them on the spot.

[Victrix]

Must say Ulfberth’s zweihänder sword looks more slender (less thick) with obvious signs of wear and lack of sharp edges.

There’s a place called Golden Lane in Prague Castle which showcases modern replicas of medieval arms. Czech smiths seem very skilled at producing these for historical renactment etc. The items on display there are for sale.

[ulfberth]

here are some better close up detail pics, have a look at the leather , reproductions never have leather like this.
Please post some similar pictures including the grips, it seems they are plain wood.

[Luka Borscak]

The problem is that for higher quality pictures the forum says they are too big...

[CSinTX]

Originally Posted by Luka Borscak

The problem is that for higher quality pictures the forum says they are too big...

If you would like, email them to me at toledo321 at aol.com

I'll try to resize them in a way that will preserve the quality. Also, outside pictures under natural light will help.

[Luka Borscak]

Originally Posted by Victrix

Must say Ulfberth’s zweihänder sword looks more slender (less thick) with obvious signs of wear and lack of sharp edges.

There’s a place called Golden Lane in Prague Castle which showcases modern replicas of medieval arms. Czech smiths seem very skilled at producing these for historical renactment etc. The items on display there are for sale.

You mean thickness or width? Mine is thick at the base, but tapers quickly. In the top third of the blade it is very thin and flexible.

[Victrix]

Originally Posted by Luka Borscak

You mean thickness or width? Mine is thick at the base, but tapers quickly. In the top third of the blade it is very thin and flexible.

I meant the guard. It’s thick and crude compared to Ulberth’s example. But maybe yours is more meant for business! Hard to tell. As stated earlier I’m not an expert. Great to see the more detailed pics and they look much more convincing. I really think you should ask an expert to examine them.