The bastard sword sits between the single-handed arming sword and the true two-handed greatsword, hence the name, which is period rather than modern.Neither one thing nor the otherThe grip is too long for comfortable one-handed use and too short for a full two-handed swing, and that ambiguity is the point. It could be carried on a belt like a side sword and still brought into both hands when the fight demanded it.Ours are hand-forged from high-carbon or Damascus steel with wire or leather-wrapped grips.Please check your local law before ordering.