Lord that's such an overused trope, when I was a kid playing D&D my favourite paranoid rogue used to carry nets around because if you were in a room full of skellies along with a lever/button or treasure you'd throw them on the skellies before you touch anything.
@ourkeving True dat, he also magically carried several thick treetrunks to stop doors slamming shut and block descending cielings and crushing walls, hosepipes, and air bladders in case of flooding rooms as well as other odds and ends including a garden roller, barrels full of water and a ten foot barge pole to poke suspicious things. It was his quirk. He was paranoid about everything, a conspiracy theorist and a rabid flat Toril-er "if Toril isn't flat explain maps" he was also convinced his family was kidnapped by tiny goblins flying dinner plates, like magic carpets, after his family vanished after telling him to wait in the town square until they get back. "The little bleeders also stole the furniture and sold the house." Man, I miss those days.
Windlass certainly considered everything when forging this sword to a price point. That is a rarity these days in the "Something has to give" style of thinking. It may be unwieldy, but it certainly ticks the right boxes for style, heft, form, and even retaining quite a bit of function. You get a lot for your investment. As a collector of primitive and modern weapons, I find it refreshing when a forger can truly make a superb product, all while keeping the costs down and giving the sword a wider audience appeal. Added to excellent presentations like this video, and a wider number of people who would ordinarily feel turned away due to price constraints, can now enjoy a beautiful and "functional" sword and enjoy this artform for its aesthetic, and some with being able to reenact their favorite character or battle the sword's functionality. Nice work!!
Thank you for the review! I just rewatched Conan the Barbarian in 4K, and thought about buying a screen-accurate sword. Your review definitely helped me decide to buy one, so thank you.
As a nerd, this will always be one of my favourite items to have on display, but also I can share a few things about the sword that were added by other authors of the comics and some extra tidbits by fans, nr.1 The sword is indeed of Atlantean origin, you must think of it like Glamdring, also called the Foe-hammer and the Beater and its mate Orcrist, the Goblin-cleaver forged for Turgon, the High Elven King of Gondolin during the First Age, later wielded by the wizard Gandalf and by Thorin II "Oakenshield" respectively or Andúril, the Flame of the West, the Sword Reforged, forged from the shards of Narsil, wielded by King Aragorn II Elessar, heir of Isildur. nr.2 The metal in Enchanted is similar in function to the Olympian Adamantine, Mythirll from the Lord of the Rings, Valerian Steel from the Song of Fire and Ice and Urum from Marvel comics, it's not simply enchanted like in Skyrim or World of WarCraft the metal itself is infused naturally with ra magic during forging, Nr3 The metal has never had to be sharpened, ever, at all, just like how Mythirll from the Lord of the Rings never loses its shine or how Valerian Steel from the Song of Fire and Ice never loses its edge Nr.4 The runes on the sword cannot be read as they are written in High Atlantean, this not only a dead language but was one used by the upper elites of their Empire, it was associated with scholars, mages, priests, engineers, royals and nobles, so far not even Thulsa Doom has ever been able to read them, both out of lack of knowledge and fear Nr.5 The sword might not have belonged to King Kull and that would not be his tomb, but rather the sword was forged for the high ranking member of the military, a general, a calvary commander, etc,
Wow I didn't realize so much extra fan fiction lore had been added to the sword. I know there was a little more added to the videogame version of the sword but left that out and focused on the movie lore. Thanks for sharing!
@@DynamoSwordChannel lore bits are always getting retconned I am however looking forward to the future Conan Red Sonja graphic novel of 2025, its a combo of past novels,
@@alexandarvoncarsteinzarovi3723 Speaking of, I just picked up some classic Conan comics last Sunday. The place had a good ming of King Conan and Conan the Barbarian from the 70s and 80s as well as a few issues of the modern Dark Horse and Marvel iterations. Ended up picking up an issue #9, 31, 205, and 217 as well as two annuals from 78 and 84.
@@DynamoSwordChannel I'm sad to say I must use the online system here, as out local gaming & comic centre was closed as off 2014, thanks in large part to the Christian Karen moms having a breakdown, circa 80s DnD in Satanic worship craze,
@@DynamoSwordChannel Much of what the OP said is NOT "fan" fiction, but actual original lore. For example, it can *NOT* be Kull's sword, even if Kull was from Atlantis, because Kull was _never_ king, general, nor _anything_ of Atlantis - he fled Atlantis as a very young man, being an outlaw sentenced to death there, and winded up conquering the throne of the Valusian Empire instead - much as Conan the Cimmerian was never king of Cimmeria but winded up as king of Aquilonia (blame the author for the silly names, not me). Not touching the rest for fear of turning this discusion into a geekfest - just pointing out that calling "fanfic" to the bits that the very author of Conan wrote is a bit... wrong.
Nice review! It answered some questions I had about the Windlass version. As for the threaded tang/steel tube grip, I would avoid using the sword for cutting anything more solid than plastic water bottles or tatami mats. Hitting a pell will most likely cause vibrations that might result in the pommel falling off, the threads being a potential failure point.
One thing has to be said about the "fantasy" part of this fantasy sword: at least, the fantasy bits would not hurt the user. Those langets look sweet and would not detract from the sword's funtionality (the reduced cutting area more or less offset by the ease for halfswording, it's more of a "change" for the funtionality), which is more than can be said of all those words with random spikes pointing towards one's hand, or inconceivably narrow blade sections right in the points of greater stress near the handle, or... well, you all know what I'm talking about. Conan's sword, despite being so unwieldy that is just a SSO instead of a sword, is "fantasy done right". That's why we all love it.
As a kid that grew up in the 80s that LOVED and still loves the two True Conan Movies, I've always wanted an Atlantean sword. I only wish Windlass also made a Conan The Destroyer version Atlantean Sword which is 2 inches longer than the Barbarian Sword. But I'm definitely considering getting one after seeing this and Matt Eastons video at Windlass with this sword.
The actual Marto and Windlass versions fit more to the Destroyer sword. Except for the shorter handle. The blade is not star shaped like the Conan Atlantean Sword from the Conan the Barbarian movie. They produced 4 swords. One wooden and one fiberglass that are actually the swords that fans love the most. Being used in the Conan resurrection scene. And stealing the princess back war scene. The other last 2 Jody Samson Steel versions were slightly different. One is shaped entirely like the Albion Version. And the other one has a straight blade. And it's Ricasso makes the pointed star symbol. Arnold Schwarzenegger has both steel versions now. The wooden version which was chipped up. Sold at Auction for the most of all the swords at nearly $80,000.00 The fiberglass version Sold at Auction for $60,000.00 And the one that Arnold Schwarzenegger bought from Auction was the director sword like the Albion Version. Sold from $30,000.00 to $60,000. That Arnold Schwarzenegger bid on and won. I would post links to the 4 swords. But UA-cam takes down links. I don't know why UA-cam does that? But you can find on Google. But it took me a while to find all 4 versions. The fiberglass version and wooden version are the most beautiful swords ever created. Jody Samson was an amazing knife and sword maker. I just wonder why the steel versions don't look as nice as the wooden and fiberglass versions. When watching the resurrection scene. And the scene where Conan finds the Atlantean Sword. Shows the steel version the director kept. and the fiberglass one was also used in the last fight scene where Conan breaks his father's sword. If you see the video of Arnold Schwarzenegger saying this is the Conan sword. In his covid rant. You see a sword that looks much different than the others. But all crafted by Jody Samson. I find it fascinating that not even Albion Version matches the best looking versions. I modified my version to make the shape of the blade as close to the resurrection scene where Conan learned the discipline and Riddle of steel. And does what he was trained to do for battle. By swinging the sword behind his back. It took me a while to modify a Silver Marto Conan Atlantean to look identical to the movie Prop. I have a few Short videos on UA-cam. Right now I ordered the bronze Custom made Scabbard fittings from the UK. I have a mock up video. Bc I'm designing the real Scabbard prop. Just received 2 of real coyote fur pelts to complete the Scabbard. The bronze Scabbard actually costs more than the Albion Armory Conan swords. I tried to ask Albion why they didn't make the Scabbard. They said they didn't have the "Casts". Their Atlantean Swords from Conan the Barbarian and Conan the Destroyer are very different to me. I think they're way over priced. At $3300.00 for each sword. Including the father sword. Someone who bought the Bronze Scabbard Fittings and made a great replica of the movie prop. The Scabbard sold for nearly $5000.00 USD. I will replicate the Bronze Scabbard to be exactly as in the movie. People are as already trying to buy it from me. For all the parts and labor. Costs $700.00 for everything. But I've already been offered $4000.00 and I'm nearly finished with it. The Scabbard Fittings company in UK. Stopped production on the fittings for years. They only made them once for Albion Armory. It took me a few years of constantly reaching out to them. To please make them again. They now only produced 3 copies. After that. They told me they will not produce them again. So besides the actual movie prop. "Tod Cutler company" has made these bronze Scabbard Fittings extremely rare and will never produce them ever again. They asked me to reach out to the few ppl that own real Albion Version of the Atlantean Swords. I have. But in this economy. Ppl can't afford them. So when I'm done. I'll shoot a UA-cam video. And maybe buy the rest of the bronze Scabbard Fittings and sell them at auction. Or produce 3 more Scabbards. Sad this is. They are special design for only the Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Sword. Not the Destroyer version. That's why in part 2. Arnold sword was different, longer, and had a leather Scabbard. I wonder who owns the original movie prop? If I was Arnold Schwarzenegger. I would have bought every sword Conan held. And Scabbards. I noticed that Arnold Schwarzenegger never kept the Destroyer sword. But had Albion Armory make a hundred thousand dollars worth of the original Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Sword only. I guess he gives them out to close friends? He did work with Marto of Spain when they had the Rights to the Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Sword. He even used to sign those swords. They make 3 versions of the Atlantean. One bronze dipped. One silver dipped. And one solid bronze and steel. I own the silver version. And that's the one I modified to resemble the best version. I only made 4 UA-cam shorts. 2 of the sword modifications. 1 of the custom made bronze Scabbard Fittings. And one mock up video showing the sword inserted in the mock up Scabbard with real coyote fur pelts. I don't know if I'll sell the Scabbard. Bc the Tod Cutler company may sell the last 3 fittings before I finish production? But if not. I'll sell my Scabbard at auction starting at $3500.00 But only after I snatch the last 3 bronze Scabbard Fittings that are custom made and the only ones left in existence. Ppl should really check out the 4 Jody Samson Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Swords. Albion says Jody Samson made the Destroyer sword. But Samson totally denied the claim. Bc he knew his first swords were perfection. And only thing Jody Samson about the Destroyer sword is the Atlantean Ruins and the handle, Ricasso and the pommel. It's a longer and lighter sword. And in all honesty. Looks as crappy as the Destroyer movie was. Real diehard fans are waiting and Hoping for the last Conan movie. "Conan The King of Thieves". They need to make this while Arnold Schwarzenegger is still alive. That Jason manoa movie was an embarrassment to the franchise. And the owner of the rights. Is being a real douche. Not allowing Arnold to finish the franchise and make up for the Destroyer movie flop.
Nice Review. I learned a lot from it. Just popped in to say hi after we met at the Idaho Ren Fair. We chatted for a bit at my sword vendor booth. Mike from Black Wolf Blades. It was nice to meet and talk with you.
Thanks Mike! It was nice meeting you as well, and glad you enjoyed the review! You definitely had a great selection at your booth and thanks for allowing me to handle the few I did!
I love the look of that sword, but is is worse than useless as a practical sword. Cutting with it, even just carrying it around at a renfest, is tiring. The damn thing weighs a ton
You're not wrong, it's definitely built around looks not practicality lol. But I think that's what has drawn so many people to it. If it was just another longsword or worse, one of those crude b-movie film swords the 80s was littered with, it wouldn't be so highly regarded or sought after as a collectible. The benefits of this one being built functionally is less about performance but that it allows one to carry or swing it around. Unlike a display only version that is lacking a full tang and could snap at any type of handling. Plus it's hilt is casted from the original molds so it's about as authentic and film accurate you can get for under $500.
REH’s character would never have used a boat anchor like that for a sword anyway. Maybe someday, someone will respect the core material and make an actual Conan movie.
@@raydrexler5868 True, something more common for Howard's Hyborian Age would be a Spatha, Hallstatt or Migration era sword. But of course being a film sword especially in the 80s they wanted something that would stand out and be imposing, and in that regard they designers did their job well.
I love the albion version but i cant justify the 3k price tag. The Windlass looks good and ive heard they have improved the construction. I may just pick one up.
When you consider the sword versus the prop of the Atlantean warrior's skeleton, the sword is tiny by comparison. It looks like it was meant more to be a proportional one-handed shortsword for its original and intended user (which gives an idea of how big the Atlanteans were in the Conan film universe). I'd be very curious to see how this design of sword works if it was built to it's 'intended' proportions as a short sword (which would also make the paneling along the ricasso much more practical, if the grip was intended to only fit a single hand).
You did a great Job polishing out the Details of the Hand Guard and Pommel ! If i were not so far away i would ask you to treat my Windlass Atlantean exactly the same Way. Best Regards from Germany, Bavaria, District of Lower Franconia👋🏼😀🇩🇪
My son got one of those….his first sword he bought from Windlass came from their “Battlecry”:collection-(I have the Battlecry Buckler shield, actually)-along with their Oakshot Type XIV Arming sword-(my personal favorite)-along with their Bastard sword, amd the Damascus Viking sword, which was my first Windlass purchase…I just got their pole axe, which is “meh”, but generally speaking, for the money that you spend, Windlass offers a very good selection of swords…I’m most DEFINITELY a fan, although I really wish they would do a Langes Messer….I mean, technically, they DO make one: the Cold Steel version of one, at least. I own one of those too-(I’m a HEMA enthusiast)-as well as their “grosse messer” I also have Windlass’s “Crusaders axe”, amd absolutely LOVE it. Outstanding presentation, sir! You’ve earned yourself a subscriber!
Thanks! Yea sounds like you got some solid Windlass items in your collection. Ironically I too just purchased the PoleAxe and Crusader. Like them both, if I had a critique it would be the Pole Axe is just a little too short, be a lot better if it was around 6'. Also check out their site they just released a new Messer under their Battlecry Line you might like! Appreciate the support and subscription!
Did you know that Conan saved Marvel universe from bankruptcy, back in the 60's. Marvel bought the rights for Conan and sold millions of Conan comics and saved poorly sold Marvel comics.After that Marvel became household name.
@@dado380 When I was a kid in the late 70s I had a friend who's older brother had every Conan comic to date. My friend "didn't like Conan" (I know, I had to stop hanging out with him!) but his brother traded me his Conan collection for some model tanks and army men. Unfortunately, that comic book collection (along with all my other comics) disappeared years later when I was based in West Germany and my parents moved. My mother gave the $125 dollars they got at the garage sale for the collection. I just shook my head and said "That's okay, mom, you can keep it." Then I got in a fight with my brother who liberated all our toy soldiers and toy tanks that were still in our parents' house, but couldn't be bothered to grab my boxes of carefully preserved comic books and hold on to them at his place until I got home. Just one of those things!
Crom! I would like to know if it is solidly built, I mean if it has a full tang... OK, I was able to find that information in the final part of the video, thank you, it is the best video I have seen of this sword.
some info: to the king it is not a sword but rather a dagger. you can see it in the size of the hands. its probably a ceremonial dagger for the king and for conan being a human, it's the actual size of a sword because atlanteans seem to be way bigger than humans. this also explains why it seems so unwieldy and brutish for a sword.
I watched the movie by myself in the theater. The next day i went down to the woodshop and made a wooden replica. A freind was calling me while i was working but i was embarrassed and didnt want him to know. He came to my house and caught me. Instead of being made fun of he wanted to make himself one. I said pick a piece of wood. He picked a piece of cedar. I said that to weak. He didnt care. We finished and he was game for a fight. It was around 95° out but we put on our football pads and helmets and went at it. No shirts just like a barbarian. 😂. It was awesome! But his sword broke like i said would happen.
Have you ever met Jodi Samson (or Sampson)? I have briefly, but years ago! He said that when he made that sword, as well as the curved sword used by the lady, he made a total of 4. Two out of steel (5160) and two out of aluminum. The carved hand guard he hand carved out of jewelers wax, but the first carving broke before it was completed, so he had to start over. When it was cast red bronze or brass, I believe, was used
No I never got to meet the man but I did get to converse with him via Email many years ago before his passing. Yes I've heard that as well there were also a few mechanical prop versions made that had neat little mechanics like fluid lines for blood splatter and things. In an interview Arnold said the mechanical ones were nearly double the weight of the standard steel props!
@@DynamoSwordChannel I did not know Mr Samson passed RIP. My mother used to live in California (southern) and while visiting her (on leave) I happened to be walking around some downtown area, and walked into a knife shop. I had no idea who he was at the time, but after showing me some other works, and talking me through some aspects of the Conan sword, was I surprised! I still have an interest in swords armor, & ancient weapons but a historical sense. I have also talked with Jim Hrsolieus(sp!) And John Clemons or Clemens).
@@philippegoulet-swordscolle9862 Nice, from what I've researched they're pretty much the same build-wise. The only thing I'm not sure on is if the Marto models are full tang or not. And of course the 1070 of the Windlass and Stainless Steel of the Marto.
@@philippegoulet-swordscolle9862 I think they're around the same 6-7lbs range. Maybe the Marto is slightly heavier if the blade is thicker? Also from swinging it around and wielding getting a feel for it pre-review might have helped lol.
A very well presented and studied review of this sword. A 3lb rendition of it would be incredible but will not be possible untill metallurgical or metaphysical advancements are made. LOL I would prefer the Destroyer sword in that case.
Thanks! I agree, all the weight really is in the solid brass hilt. Same with the Albion and its solid bronze hilt. If one could figure out how to thin the hilt you could technically get it down to around 5lbs. My friend Jeffrey Robinson designed an Atlantean he named the Antidulvian which features his own custom version of hilt and he was able to drop two pounds off without sacrificing the overall design of the sword.
While it is unwieldly nothing beats the coolness factor of this sword. I own the carbon steel variant and it is even reasonably sharp! You need considerable forearm and wrist strength to wield it one handed though. Working on it, getting there. since this sword is kinda a bucket list item to me.
I would love for you to do a video of the sword that the late Jody Samson supervised making at Albion Armory. I wish I had ordered one when they were first released, because they are even more expensive now. My issue with the sword you are reviewing right now is that the size is not correct. The Atlantean sword from the first Conan film had a pretty small handle. Arnold was not able to grip it with both hands. That is why the sword had some changes to it in the second film.
It's the same size, yes they extended the handle of the Destroyer Film Sword, but that also shows in the Albion version as well. Arnold griped the Barbarian Film Sword two handed, it shows especially when he grips it in the Witch's Hut and during his training after being resurrected by Akiro. It would be nice to have one of those but like you their price is out of my reach.
Nice review! I bought the Albion version back around 2005, before the Windlass version was made. Though the Albion is a very nice piece, for the price, I think I would have been just as happy with this version, not to mention $2000+ richer! I did, however, consider getting the WIndlass scabbard for my Abion, but after looking into it, there seemed to be some minor size differences that would prohibit it from fitting the Albion. As a humorous side note, and absolutely no offense intended, the way you use your hands to gesture at the sword immediatley made me think of you as the Vanna White of sword reviews lol!
Plenty of options on amazon and various sword sites for table top sword displays. Medieval and or Fantasy Swords fit just fine in them even though they're Japanese styled. Plus if you get a three tier one just just might have to fill the other two tiers with two new swords right lol!
it would be interesting to see this sword in a fight. i'd reckon that in the hands of a big strong guy, this thing is absolutely deadly. its sturdyness and weight is crazy and i must know, i have one. basically, whatever you hit with that thing at full power is done for. it's kinda more for crushing/mauling than cutting due to it's thick blade. if you're strong enough to handle the weight and can wield it with agility, this thing would be absolutely deadly. but you couldn't even use it in sparring...even in armor i wouldn't want to get hit with it. truly a fitting weapon for conan
apart from the blade steel, I've read that the Marto handle is made from Zamac - this Windlass one is made of brass? I'd prefer the brass one definately...
The movie scene was based upon the Conan short story, "The Thing in the Crypt". The difference in the story being that the mummified king re-animates and attempts to slay Conan. There were two different swords used for each movie. The Destroyer sword had a slight longer hilt and a different wrap.
Hi . very good video on the atlantean conan. what product do you use to make it so golden and polished? I also have the windlass marto and is brown compared to yours. thank you and hello from france
Thanks, I use Flitz polish. I have a cleaning tutorial on my channel too. It's not polishing the Atlantean but it shows the products I use and techniques.
3:00 Off topic but I dont buy it was Kull on the throne for one reason and one reason only . Anyone who is familiar with King Kull knows ........BY THIS AXE I RULE . I dont buy he would be buried with a sword and not an axe .
Yea I agree too just added it to place similarity between the Characters from the film standpoint since Howard always affiliated Conan as being a decedent or the Cimmerians themselves decedents of Atlanteans.
I own the 90's Stainless Version. Is a Two. Handed Sword. The Half sword technique is Unique..Is like a short spear. If a guy had Super Strength, then the sword would be very formidable. I think feeling the weight as a mere human. I was weight lifter and still could feel the weight... Made for a Giant shows the Super Human Stregth Of Conan...😎...
Unfortunately the Windlass ones are kinda hard to find right now until a new run of them is released. The official seller in the US is Museum Replicas. There are a few of the Windlass models available on Ebay but they are a little over priced and of course it's a little hard to trust Ebay. Best bet would be to Email or call Museum Replicas and see when the next batch of Conan swords are due for sale.
it might be a fantasy sword but its design and construction of the early reproductions was rugged and tough with a well tempered blade. a friend of mine had one that he beat the heck out of stuff with it and it survived it all.
Flitz brand polish. It pretty easy to find in most hardware stores in the US if your located in the USA. You can also buy it online at Home Depot or Amazon. Sword vendors KultofAthena and Museum Replicas also sell it.
@DynamoSwordChannel thanks a lot, Iam not in the US, but Europe, can see though that it is available here as well, overall, was split whether to get the Marto or Windlass edition, but seeing that the pommel can be polished on the Windlass, then its decided. To follow up if I may, considering its carbon steel, do I have to oil it regularly if placed on a wall naked?
Once a month if not handling it much. Each time you cut with a sword you should clean and oil it. But if you're just displaying it or dry handling it (aka swinging it around or holding it) then once a month should be fine.
Where I saw an excellent written description of the iconography in the pommel and crossguard of the sword and how it related to Atlantis and its fall. If anybody knows where I can find that I'd sure appreciate it
It's in the behind the scenes articles and books from the orginal release. I have images of them in the video. Should be a simple Google search to find them.
Bought a windlass Fathers Sword a couple years ago. Had to return it. The pommel was hollow, and free wheeling turnable...the construction did not hold up. They did a good job at the return and refund.
Not sure exactly, don't think I've ever seen anything on UA-cam. I know a guy on SBG Forum who owns both models (as well as a few other Atlantean swords from custom makers) but I don't think he's into cutting or ever cut with any of them.
@@DynamoSwordChannel The Albion Conan swords are asking for $4k on their site but for the same price I can pickup up a 15th century Japanese katana in great condition in new polish from a dealer in Japan. One is a fantasy sword that are made from bar stock steel or machine with no history, the other is handforged by ancient master, been in battles and certified cultural relic.
@@simonc4764 True but again as with most things, value is in the eye of the beholder. Some who are really into Conan or specifically the films will find $4,000 worth the price of an Albion version. Some with less budget will appreciate the $400 Windlass version. True one is a more unwieldy fantasy sword and the other be it a Nihonto or Shinsakuto are more traditionally and functionally focused. But overall a lot of people don't find value in the traditional Nihonto, hence the popularity and demand for production katana. Again it's all dependent on what the individual favors or prefers. In that mind set one is just as valuable as the other as both pieces of artistic craftsmanship, regardless of one having stronger practical functionality over the other.
@@DynamoSwordChannel I'm a fan of the original movie but its just a hard sell. I know there are modern makers who actually do traditional handforge blades who deserve merit as modern crafts but I'm not seeing it even in the Albion Conan swords. A few years ago there were resin Conon prop swords used in the movie going for sale estimated $7k, they are an entirely different hobby. Its difficult to find a connection with these replica swords even as a fan. As a piece in its own right its almost valueless as a sword because its value is based almost if not entirely in the nostalgia of the movie.
@@simonc4764 A lot of that initial appeal with the Albion models in the beginning was because Albion had Jody Samson in their employ and he was making them. But yea I understand your point in regards to a historically accurate functional sword vs a fantasy sword, especially in the higher price brackets. That's the thing about sword enthusiasts as a whole there's those that focus more on the martial arts side, tradional side and even fantasy side which gives the market a wide variety of people to sell to and please.
Very informative review! Thanks :) I just got mine from irongate finland and ialso live here so it came very quickly. Now just to thinking about getting the scabbard to complete the sword, and it would also make it bit easier to store or maybe hang on a wall. btw Do you have the conan the barbarian father's sword? Its also so amaizing
It's the balance point of the sword and where it centers to the overall weight of the sword. A more forward (closer to the tip) P.O.B is going to make the sword more tip heavy and I general feel heavier in hand. A more back (closer to the guard) P.O.B is going to feel less heavy and more light in hand.
@@DynamoSwordChannel Ok. Thanks. I wonder if it's difficult for the swordsmith to figure out were the point of balance will be while in the process of making a sword.
It could be depending on their experience, there's a lot of factors that can change point of balance, overall weight, distal and profile taper, as well as the weight of the guard and pommel. Fullering can also effect point of balance.
@@DynamoSwordChannel Yup. It's on my personal Mt. Rushmore of movie swords. I also really liked the look of Perseus' sword from the original "Clash of the Titans". Another pretty-as-a-picture blade. 👍🏼😃👍🏼
@@jackflash8218 my secondary soft spot if for the Power Sword/Sword of Grayskull from the live action Masters of the Universe film. There were a few good film sword from the 80s, most of them were ugly clunkers though lol.
Simply put, the Albion is a higher quality version. Albion has a Bronze casted hilt opposed the Brass of the Windlass. The Albion blade is CNC Milled opposed to the Windlass that is hand forged. The Albion has a wooden grip opposed to the Windlass having a steel grip. Overall the general fit and finish of the Albion will be higher. Aside from that they offer the same sword. For example both have an equally durable high carbon steel blade that is heat treated. Both use original mold castings of the original prop swords. Both are offically licensed replicas.
I think after Windlass bought Marto they were/are using some Marto designed & made hilts married to Windlass blades as to make functional swords; unlike the swords Marto made by themselves. So it's possible that the current Windlass Conan swords are using the hilts that Marto made for their Conan swords.
I know they are using the molds from Marto but yes once they acquired Marto many Marto swords began seeing functional versions made by Windlass. For example the Robin of Locksley Sword and Richard the Lionheart Sword. I think the change in hilt assembly in recent years was due to the negative reception from earlier swords though having the odd non-attached pommel.
Nice, yea the only one I've ever seen made is by my friend Jeffrey Robinson, a custom smith out of Florida. It's pretty bad ass but of course price is high as a first class custom. www.bronzebyjeffreyjrobinson.com/He-Man.html He also has made a few other He-Man swords based on the toy line and cartoon.
Good review but with one mistake. The guard and pommel are not " solid brass " they're plated. But you're not paying the $3,000 plus price of the Albion either.
Aluminium castings AND hollow, with an aggressively distal-tapered blade & much deeper fuller is the way to go. Having the bevels look the same as this version, AFTER distal tapering would be the only challenging part.
Well sure, if they're strong enough to use it for an extended amount of time. The issue isn't stronger people can use heavier things longer or more effectively. But that this rule also applies to lighter things, they can use them longer and more effectively than weaker people. So a stronger person with a lighter weapon will be much more effective than a stronger person with a heavier weapon.
@@DynamoSwordChannel Thanks for the reply, I take it that means the added weight of the sword doesnt make it do more damage or at least not enough to negate the downsides.
@@HumphreyHorsehead Correct. The extra weight from this sword is 90% from the hilt. The blade is pretty similar to other sword blades in thickness, so it's durability is going to be also pretty similar.
@@DynamoSwordChannel Spoiler: In this scene Joyce is protected from a demogorgon by Hopper in an arena of the soviets (longer story). After emptying the magazine of his AK, he grabs this sword under the medieval weapons lying around and kills the monster like Conan would have done!😁
Excellent detailed review, exactly what I was searching for. One point however is you should learn the correct pronouncing of "Albion." It is "Al-Be-On." Not "Abilon," as you keep mispronouncing.
Are you still going to do a cutting demo? I could not help but think that this beast of a weapon would possibly redeem itself / shine in the impact potential against heavier armour. Possibly have less chance of over flex when braced into a huge fantasy beast.
Yes, waiting for it to warm up a bit more and I'll start my backlog of follow ups including this sword. Honestly I don't think it'd do that much better against Armour than any other early period arming or warsword. It's blade profile is definitely geared towards cutting and even though it's heavier the bulk of the weight is in the hilt not the thickness of the blade.
Brilliant review. I didn't expect it to be so detailed. Have you ever done, or can you do, a review of the original swords as used in Conan The Barbarian and Conan The Destroyer? I believe that the sword used in The Destroyer, though supposedly the same, was an entirely different size and weight sword.
Thanks glad you enjoyed it! This model reviewed uses the same molds and has the same specs as the original from Conan the Barbarian. The Destroyer version is only available by Albion and has a long wait time and hefty price tag so probably will never get around to purchasing one. And yes you are correct the Destroyer version was a few inches longer in grip and blade by maybe 3-5" total according to film sources.
I have the same sword, something I've always wanted since i was a kid. Only thing I don't like is I'd like the etchings a little deeper. I did pay the extra for a sharpened version but it came dull unfortunately.
Nice, yea the blade etching are electroplated rather than engraved which is a downer but again costs and budgeting. That's too bad did you contant MRL and get your sharpening cost refunded?
@@DynamoSwordChannel yeah got it refunded but means I'm sat with a blunt sword. Too frightened to even attempt sharpening it. It is what it is I guess.
@The Angry Pirate ok good. Yea I got to sharpen mine myself but I have experience and the proper tools. Nobody local in your area who would maybe take a shot at it?
@@DynamoSwordChannelI would also prefer to have the Runes deeper in the Blade. It is the only visual Drawback to this Sword in my Opinion. Do you think a professional Engraver could help ?
Did you have the Windlass Model or one of the stainless steel models? All the Windlass models I've seen deconstructed have been full tang with no welding. There's pics in the video showing two different swords with full tangs deconstructed in my video, one a pic from MRL warehouse and the second from a private owner from SBG forum.
Really didn't care for the clearly audible rattle it produced when you struck it to find point of percussion at around 7:25...sounds cheap and flimsy...hope I'm wrong.
I have the Museum Prop Replica version that I bought for $415 on eBay, which looks VERY close to the Albion version. I figure since my sword would just hang on the wall of my man cave, there was no need to get the $3,200 Albion version when my $415 version is just as good.
This isn't the Albion it's the Windlass. But yes whenever you have heavy hilted swords like this, if there is any gap in the hilt parts you get rattle. For example the rattle you heard from mine was the slight gap in the langets touching the blade during the blades vibration.
When Conan took the sword, it wasn't rusty or corroded. It was encased in an old rotted scabbard, which he removed showing an immaculate blade.
Really? That is interesting. I love the sound it made when he was knocking the scunge off the sword.
The Dead king also comes to life and tries to kill Conan when he takes the sword, in the books and original comics.
Lord that's such an overused trope, when I was a kid playing D&D my favourite paranoid rogue used to carry nets around because if you were in a room full of skellies along with a lever/button or treasure you'd throw them on the skellies before you touch anything.
@@Immortal-Headcase metagaming! lol
@ourkeving True dat, he also magically carried several thick treetrunks to stop doors slamming shut and block descending cielings and crushing walls, hosepipes, and air bladders in case of flooding rooms as well as other odds and ends including a garden roller, barrels full of water and a ten foot barge pole to poke suspicious things. It was his quirk. He was paranoid about everything, a conspiracy theorist and a rabid flat Toril-er "if Toril isn't flat explain maps" he was also convinced his family was kidnapped by tiny goblins flying dinner plates, like magic carpets, after his family vanished after telling him to wait in the town square until they get back. "The little bleeders also stole the furniture and sold the house." Man, I miss those days.
Although this was 2 years ago, after watching the video today I went ahead and bought it. Thank your for the thorough review.
You're welcome, glad it helped with your decision!
For me the atlantean is one of if not the best designed fantasy swords ever.
The skeleton was a giant who came back to life in the original stories. God i love that sword! Conan rulz
Saw the thumbnail, had to click. Great review. My favorite sword.
Thanks! One of my favorites from film as well!
I just bought mine ! My childhood dream just came true !
Windlass certainly considered everything when forging this sword to a price point. That is a rarity these days in the "Something has to give" style of thinking. It may be unwieldy, but it certainly ticks the right boxes for style, heft, form, and even retaining quite a bit of function. You get a lot for your investment. As a collector of primitive and modern weapons, I find it refreshing when a forger can truly make a superb product, all while keeping the costs down and giving the sword a wider audience appeal.
Added to excellent presentations like this video, and a wider number of people who would ordinarily feel turned away due to price constraints, can now enjoy a beautiful and "functional" sword and enjoy this artform for its aesthetic, and some with being able to reenact their favorite character or battle the sword's functionality. Nice work!!
Definitely, I completely agree and appreciate the compliment on my presentation!
Thank you for the review! I just rewatched Conan the Barbarian in 4K, and thought about buying a screen-accurate sword. Your review definitely helped me decide to buy one, so thank you.
You're welcome! Glad it helped and nice with the 4K, I have both it and Destroyer on Amazon Prime as well as the DVD combo from way back when lol.
Thank you for this comprehensive assessment of this iconic sword. Best wishes from Poland!
You're welcome, glad you enjoyed and thanks for the Polish wishes!
As a nerd, this will always be one of my favourite items to have on display, but also I can share a few things about the sword that were added by other authors of the comics and some extra tidbits by fans,
nr.1 The sword is indeed of Atlantean origin, you must think of it like Glamdring, also called the Foe-hammer and the Beater and its mate Orcrist, the Goblin-cleaver forged for Turgon, the High Elven King of Gondolin during the First Age, later wielded by the wizard Gandalf and by Thorin II "Oakenshield" respectively or Andúril, the Flame of the West, the Sword Reforged, forged from the shards of Narsil, wielded by King Aragorn II Elessar, heir of Isildur.
nr.2 The metal in Enchanted is similar in function to the Olympian Adamantine, Mythirll from the Lord of the Rings, Valerian Steel from the Song of Fire and Ice and Urum from Marvel comics, it's not simply enchanted like in Skyrim or World of WarCraft the metal itself is infused naturally with ra magic during forging,
Nr3 The metal has never had to be sharpened, ever, at all, just like how Mythirll from the Lord of the Rings never loses its shine or how Valerian Steel from the Song of Fire and Ice never loses its edge
Nr.4 The runes on the sword cannot be read as they are written in High Atlantean, this not only a dead language but was one used by the upper elites of their Empire, it was associated with scholars, mages, priests, engineers, royals and nobles, so far not even Thulsa Doom has ever been able to read them, both out of lack of knowledge and fear
Nr.5 The sword might not have belonged to King Kull and that would not be his tomb, but rather the sword was forged for the high ranking member of the military, a general, a calvary commander, etc,
Wow I didn't realize so much extra fan fiction lore had been added to the sword. I know there was a little more added to the videogame version of the sword but left that out and focused on the movie lore. Thanks for sharing!
@@DynamoSwordChannel lore bits are always getting retconned I am however looking forward to the future Conan Red Sonja graphic novel of 2025, its a combo of past novels,
@@alexandarvoncarsteinzarovi3723
Speaking of, I just picked up some classic Conan comics last Sunday. The place had a good ming of King Conan and Conan the Barbarian from the 70s and 80s as well as a few issues of the modern Dark Horse and Marvel iterations. Ended up picking up an issue #9, 31, 205, and 217 as well as two annuals from 78 and 84.
@@DynamoSwordChannel I'm sad to say I must use the online system here, as out local gaming & comic centre was closed as off 2014, thanks in large part to the Christian Karen moms having a breakdown, circa 80s DnD in Satanic worship craze,
@@DynamoSwordChannel Much of what the OP said is NOT "fan" fiction, but actual original lore. For example, it can *NOT* be Kull's sword, even if Kull was from Atlantis, because Kull was _never_ king, general, nor _anything_ of Atlantis - he fled Atlantis as a very young man, being an outlaw sentenced to death there, and winded up conquering the throne of the Valusian Empire instead - much as Conan the Cimmerian was never king of Cimmeria but winded up as king of Aquilonia (blame the author for the silly names, not me). Not touching the rest for fear of turning this discusion into a geekfest - just pointing out that calling "fanfic" to the bits that the very author of Conan wrote is a bit... wrong.
I really appreciate this review. I am seriously considering buying one.
I don't think you'd be disappointed, it is wild how film accurate it is when you get it in hand!
Arnold keeps the original film sword in a glass case in his office.
Nice review! It answered some questions I had about the Windlass version. As for the threaded tang/steel tube grip, I would avoid using the sword for cutting anything more solid than plastic water bottles or tatami mats. Hitting a pell will most likely cause vibrations that might result in the pommel falling off, the threads being a potential failure point.
One thing has to be said about the "fantasy" part of this fantasy sword: at least, the fantasy bits would not hurt the user. Those langets look sweet and would not detract from the sword's funtionality (the reduced cutting area more or less offset by the ease for halfswording, it's more of a "change" for the funtionality), which is more than can be said of all those words with random spikes pointing towards one's hand, or inconceivably narrow blade sections right in the points of greater stress near the handle, or... well, you all know what I'm talking about.
Conan's sword, despite being so unwieldy that is just a SSO instead of a sword, is "fantasy done right". That's why we all love it.
As a kid that grew up in the 80s that LOVED and still loves the two True Conan Movies, I've always wanted an Atlantean sword. I only wish Windlass also made a Conan The Destroyer version Atlantean Sword which is 2 inches longer than the Barbarian Sword. But I'm definitely considering getting one after seeing this and Matt Eastons video at Windlass with this sword.
The actual Marto and Windlass versions fit more to the Destroyer sword. Except for the shorter handle. The blade is not star shaped like the Conan Atlantean Sword from the Conan the Barbarian movie. They produced 4 swords. One wooden and one fiberglass that are actually the swords that fans love the most. Being used in the Conan resurrection scene. And stealing the princess back war scene.
The other last 2 Jody Samson Steel versions were slightly different. One is shaped entirely like the Albion Version. And the other one has a straight blade. And it's Ricasso makes the pointed star symbol.
Arnold Schwarzenegger has both steel versions now. The wooden version which was chipped up. Sold at Auction for the most of all the swords at nearly $80,000.00
The fiberglass version Sold at Auction for $60,000.00
And the one that Arnold Schwarzenegger bought from Auction was the director sword like the Albion Version. Sold from $30,000.00 to $60,000. That Arnold Schwarzenegger bid on and won. I would post links to the 4 swords. But UA-cam takes down links. I don't know why UA-cam does that?
But you can find on Google. But it took me a while to find all 4 versions.
The fiberglass version and wooden version are the most beautiful swords ever created. Jody Samson was an amazing knife and sword maker.
I just wonder why the steel versions don't look as nice as the wooden and fiberglass versions.
When watching the resurrection scene. And the scene where Conan finds the Atlantean Sword. Shows the steel version the director kept. and the fiberglass one was also used in the last fight scene where Conan breaks his father's sword.
If you see the video of Arnold Schwarzenegger saying this is the Conan sword. In his covid rant. You see a sword that looks much different than the others.
But all crafted by Jody Samson.
I find it fascinating that not even Albion Version matches the best looking versions.
I modified my version to make the shape of the blade as close to the resurrection scene where Conan learned the discipline and Riddle of steel. And does what he was trained to do for battle. By swinging the sword behind his back.
It took me a while to modify a Silver Marto Conan Atlantean to look identical to the movie Prop.
I have a few Short videos on UA-cam.
Right now I ordered the bronze Custom made Scabbard fittings from the UK. I have a mock up video. Bc I'm designing the real Scabbard prop. Just received 2 of real coyote fur pelts to complete the Scabbard.
The bronze Scabbard actually costs more than the Albion Armory Conan swords.
I tried to ask Albion why they didn't make the Scabbard. They said they didn't have the "Casts".
Their Atlantean Swords from Conan the Barbarian and Conan the Destroyer are very different to me. I think they're way over priced. At $3300.00 for each sword. Including the father sword.
Someone who bought the Bronze Scabbard Fittings and made a great replica of the movie prop.
The Scabbard sold for nearly $5000.00 USD.
I will replicate the Bronze Scabbard to be exactly as in the movie. People are as already trying to buy it from me.
For all the parts and labor. Costs $700.00 for everything.
But I've already been offered $4000.00 and I'm nearly finished with it.
The Scabbard Fittings company in UK. Stopped production on the fittings for years. They only made them once for Albion Armory.
It took me a few years of constantly reaching out to them. To please make them again.
They now only produced 3 copies.
After that. They told me they will not produce them again.
So besides the actual movie prop.
"Tod Cutler company" has made these bronze Scabbard Fittings extremely rare and will never produce them ever again.
They asked me to reach out to the few ppl that own real Albion Version of the Atlantean Swords. I have. But in this economy. Ppl can't afford them.
So when I'm done. I'll shoot a UA-cam video. And maybe buy the rest of the bronze Scabbard Fittings and sell them at auction. Or produce 3 more Scabbards.
Sad this is. They are special design for only the Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Sword.
Not the Destroyer version.
That's why in part 2. Arnold sword was different, longer, and had a leather Scabbard.
I wonder who owns the original movie prop? If I was Arnold Schwarzenegger. I would have bought every sword Conan held. And Scabbards.
I noticed that Arnold Schwarzenegger never kept the Destroyer sword.
But had Albion Armory make a hundred thousand dollars worth of the original Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Sword only.
I guess he gives them out to close friends?
He did work with Marto of Spain when they had the Rights to the Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Sword.
He even used to sign those swords.
They make 3 versions of the Atlantean. One bronze dipped. One silver dipped. And one solid bronze and steel.
I own the silver version. And that's the one I modified to resemble the best version.
I only made 4 UA-cam shorts. 2 of the sword modifications.
1 of the custom made bronze Scabbard Fittings.
And one mock up video showing the sword inserted in the mock up Scabbard with real coyote fur pelts.
I don't know if I'll sell the Scabbard. Bc the Tod Cutler company may sell the last 3 fittings before I finish production?
But if not. I'll sell my Scabbard at auction starting at $3500.00
But only after I snatch the last 3 bronze Scabbard Fittings that are custom made and the only ones left in existence.
Ppl should really check out the 4 Jody Samson Conan the Barbarian Atlantean Swords.
Albion says Jody Samson made the Destroyer sword. But Samson totally denied the claim. Bc he knew his first swords were perfection.
And only thing Jody Samson about the Destroyer sword is the Atlantean Ruins and the handle, Ricasso and the pommel.
It's a longer and lighter sword.
And in all honesty. Looks as crappy as the Destroyer movie was.
Real diehard fans are waiting and Hoping for the last Conan movie.
"Conan The King of Thieves".
They need to make this while Arnold Schwarzenegger is still alive.
That Jason manoa movie was an embarrassment to the franchise.
And the owner of the rights. Is being a real douche. Not allowing Arnold to finish the franchise and make up for the Destroyer movie flop.
Nice Review. I learned a lot from it. Just popped in to say hi after we met at the Idaho Ren Fair. We chatted for a bit at my sword vendor booth. Mike from Black Wolf Blades. It was nice to meet and talk with you.
Thanks Mike! It was nice meeting you as well, and glad you enjoyed the review! You definitely had a great selection at your booth and thanks for allowing me to handle the few I did!
I love the look of that sword, but is is worse than useless as a practical sword. Cutting with it, even just carrying it around at a renfest, is tiring. The damn thing weighs a ton
You're not wrong, it's definitely built around looks not practicality lol. But I think that's what has drawn so many people to it. If it was just another longsword or worse, one of those crude b-movie film swords the 80s was littered with, it wouldn't be so highly regarded or sought after as a collectible. The benefits of this one being built functionally is less about performance but that it allows one to carry or swing it around. Unlike a display only version that is lacking a full tang and could snap at any type of handling. Plus it's hilt is casted from the original molds so it's about as authentic and film accurate you can get for under $500.
REH’s character would never have used a boat anchor like that for a sword anyway. Maybe someday, someone will respect the core material and make an actual Conan movie.
@@raydrexler5868 True, something more common for Howard's Hyborian Age would be a Spatha, Hallstatt or Migration era sword. But of course being a film sword especially in the 80s they wanted something that would stand out and be imposing, and in that regard they designers did their job well.
I love the albion version but i cant justify the 3k price tag. The Windlass looks good and ive heard they have improved the construction. I may just pick one up.
I have the Albion one and its worth every penny.
When you consider the sword versus the prop of the Atlantean warrior's skeleton, the sword is tiny by comparison. It looks like it was meant more to be a proportional one-handed shortsword for its original and intended user (which gives an idea of how big the Atlanteans were in the Conan film universe).
I'd be very curious to see how this design of sword works if it was built to it's 'intended' proportions as a short sword (which would also make the paneling along the ricasso much more practical, if the grip was intended to only fit a single hand).
Right! Remember the beginning when his father tells him that once upon a time, giants lived in the earth?
Right! Remember the beginning when his father tells him that once upon a time, giants lived in the earth?
I like to assume that the skeleton is Kull or one of his lineage
We have yet to find the actual sword (or the twin short sword) of the giant.
You did a great Job polishing out the Details of the Hand Guard and Pommel ! If i were not so far away i would ask you to treat my Windlass Atlantean exactly the same Way. Best Regards from Germany, Bavaria, District of Lower Franconia👋🏼😀🇩🇪
My son got one of those….his first sword he bought from Windlass came from their “Battlecry”:collection-(I have the Battlecry Buckler shield, actually)-along with their Oakshot Type XIV Arming sword-(my personal favorite)-along with their Bastard sword, amd the Damascus Viking sword, which was my first Windlass purchase…I just got their pole axe, which is “meh”, but generally speaking, for the money that you spend, Windlass offers a very good selection of swords…I’m most DEFINITELY a fan, although I really wish they would do a Langes Messer….I mean, technically, they DO make one: the Cold Steel version of one, at least. I own one of those too-(I’m a HEMA enthusiast)-as well as their “grosse messer” I also have Windlass’s “Crusaders axe”, amd absolutely LOVE it.
Outstanding presentation, sir! You’ve earned yourself a subscriber!
Thanks! Yea sounds like you got some solid Windlass items in your collection. Ironically I too just purchased the PoleAxe and Crusader. Like them both, if I had a critique it would be the Pole Axe is just a little too short, be a lot better if it was around 6'. Also check out their site they just released a new Messer under their Battlecry Line you might like! Appreciate the support and subscription!
I enjoyed the brief history of Conan. I really love the Character and the Hyborian Age.
Did you know that Conan saved Marvel universe from bankruptcy, back in the 60's. Marvel bought the rights for Conan and sold millions of Conan comics and saved poorly sold Marvel comics.After that Marvel became household name.
@@dado380 When I was a kid in the late 70s I had a friend who's older brother had every Conan comic to date. My friend "didn't like Conan" (I know, I had to stop hanging out with him!) but his brother traded me his Conan collection for some model tanks and army men. Unfortunately, that comic book collection (along with all my other comics) disappeared years later when I was based in West Germany and my parents moved. My mother gave the $125 dollars they got at the garage sale for the collection. I just shook my head and said "That's okay, mom, you can keep it." Then I got in a fight with my brother who liberated all our toy soldiers and toy tanks that were still in our parents' house, but couldn't be bothered to grab my boxes of carefully preserved comic books and hold on to them at his place until I got home. Just one of those things!
Crom!
I would like to know if it is solidly built, I mean if it has a full tang...
OK, I was able to find that information in the final part of the video, thank you, it is the best video I have seen of this sword.
In the book, Conan had to fight the undead king, who attacked him, when he took the sword.
"The Thing in the Crypt"
some info: to the king it is not a sword but rather a dagger. you can see it in the size of the hands. its probably a ceremonial dagger for the king and for conan being a human, it's the actual size of a sword because atlanteans seem to be way bigger than humans. this also explains why it seems so unwieldy and brutish for a sword.
I watched the movie by myself in the theater. The next day i went down to the woodshop and made a wooden replica. A freind was calling me while i was working but i was embarrassed and didnt want him to know. He came to my house and caught me. Instead of being made fun of he wanted to make himself one. I said pick a piece of wood. He picked a piece of cedar. I said that to weak. He didnt care. We finished and he was game for a fight. It was around 95° out but we put on our football pads and helmets and went at it. No shirts just like a barbarian. 😂. It was awesome! But his sword broke like i said would happen.
Have you ever met Jodi Samson (or Sampson)? I have briefly, but years ago! He said that when he made that sword, as well as the curved sword used by the lady, he made a total of 4. Two out of steel (5160) and two out of aluminum. The carved hand guard he hand carved out of jewelers wax, but the first carving broke before it was completed, so he had to start over. When it was cast red bronze or brass, I believe, was used
No I never got to meet the man but I did get to converse with him via Email many years ago before his passing. Yes I've heard that as well there were also a few mechanical prop versions made that had neat little mechanics like fluid lines for blood splatter and things. In an interview Arnold said the mechanical ones were nearly double the weight of the standard steel props!
@@DynamoSwordChannel I did not know Mr Samson passed RIP. My mother used to live in California (southern) and while visiting her (on leave) I happened to be walking around some downtown area, and walked into a knife shop. I had no idea who he was at the time, but after showing me some other works, and talking me through some aspects of the Conan sword, was I surprised! I still have an interest in swords armor, & ancient weapons but a historical sense. I have also talked with Jim Hrsolieus(sp!) And John Clemons or Clemens).
Have one, love it.
Great review Dave
Hi Philippe! Thanks, glad you enjoyed enjoyed it. It'd look pretty sweet on your beach front locale!
@@DynamoSwordChannel yes :) I have the Marto version. I should get one windlass too !
@@philippegoulet-swordscolle9862
Nice, from what I've researched they're pretty much the same build-wise. The only thing I'm not sure on is if the Marto models are full tang or not. And of course the 1070 of the Windlass and Stainless Steel of the Marto.
The way you hold the windlass with one hand in your video, let me believe the marto is heavier...
@@philippegoulet-swordscolle9862 I think they're around the same 6-7lbs range. Maybe the Marto is slightly heavier if the blade is thicker? Also from swinging it around and wielding getting a feel for it pre-review might have helped lol.
A very well presented and studied review of this sword. A 3lb rendition of it would be incredible but will not be possible untill metallurgical or metaphysical advancements are made. LOL I would prefer the Destroyer sword in that case.
Thanks! I agree, all the weight really is in the solid brass hilt. Same with the Albion and its solid bronze hilt. If one could figure out how to thin the hilt you could technically get it down to around 5lbs. My friend Jeffrey Robinson designed an Atlantean he named the Antidulvian which features his own custom version of hilt and he was able to drop two pounds off without sacrificing the overall design of the sword.
@@DynamoSwordChannel That's incredible.
While it is unwieldly nothing beats the coolness factor of this sword. I own the carbon steel variant and it is even reasonably sharp! You need considerable forearm and wrist strength to wield it one handed though. Working on it, getting there. since this sword is kinda a bucket list item to me.
Great review. I like this guy. Subscribed...
Thanks!
Could you make a clip on how you polished the guard and pomel ? Thank you !
I'll see what I can do!
I would love for you to do a video of the sword that the late Jody Samson supervised making at Albion Armory. I wish I had ordered one when they were first released, because they are even more expensive now. My issue with the sword you are reviewing right now is that the size is not correct. The Atlantean sword from the first Conan film had a pretty small handle. Arnold was not able to grip it with both hands. That is why the sword had some changes to it in the second film.
It's the same size, yes they extended the handle of the Destroyer Film Sword, but that also shows in the Albion version as well. Arnold griped the Barbarian Film Sword two handed, it shows especially when he grips it in the Witch's Hut and during his training after being resurrected by Akiro.
It would be nice to have one of those but like you their price is out of my reach.
Nice review! I bought the Albion version back around 2005, before the Windlass version was made. Though the Albion is a very nice piece, for the price, I think I would have been just as happy with this version, not to mention $2000+ richer! I did, however, consider getting the WIndlass scabbard for my Abion, but after looking into it, there seemed to be some minor size differences that would prohibit it from fitting the Albion.
As a humorous side note, and absolutely no offense intended, the way you use your hands to gesture at the sword immediatley made me think of you as the Vanna White of sword reviews lol!
Lol thanks! Yea I get told that a lot that I talk too much with my hands, keeps people from standing too close lol!!
Always loved how to the huge skeleton it was merely a one hand sword.
Definitely, one of the best parts of the movie was the tomb scene.
Excellent video! I’m looking for suggested ways to display this, as my wife no longer wants it laying on the kitchen table. Any recommendations?
Plenty of options on amazon and various sword sites for table top sword displays. Medieval and or Fantasy Swords fit just fine in them even though they're Japanese styled. Plus if you get a three tier one just just might have to fill the other two tiers with two new swords right lol!
it would be interesting to see this sword in a fight. i'd reckon that in the hands of a big strong guy, this thing is absolutely deadly. its sturdyness and weight is crazy and i must know, i have one. basically, whatever you hit with that thing at full power is done for. it's kinda more for crushing/mauling than cutting due to it's thick blade. if you're strong enough to handle the weight and can wield it with agility, this thing would be absolutely deadly. but you couldn't even use it in sparring...even in armor i wouldn't want to get hit with it. truly a fitting weapon for conan
Great review! We have the Windlass Master's Sword
apart from the blade steel, I've read that the Marto handle is made from Zamac - this Windlass one is made of brass?
I'd prefer the brass one definately...
Correct, the guard and pommel are solid brass.
IIRC, the Albion version is more historical in function and the actual prop was an aluminum alloy made thick which was why it is too heavy.
The movie scene was based upon the Conan short story, "The Thing in the Crypt". The difference in the story being that the mummified king re-animates and attempts to slay Conan. There were two different swords used for each movie. The Destroyer sword had a slight longer hilt and a different wrap.
Did you ever do cut test with this? I bought 2 of them 2 years ago. I love this sword, favorite fantasy sword of any game/movie/comic etc.
No, haven't really had the time to get around to sharpening it and do the test video.
Great review! Appreciate the detail on the backstory and other versions.
Thanks! Glad you enjoyed it and appreciated the historical section!
Could a different metal, like Titanium be used in the Atlantean sword to improve it's function in a real battle, since that is lighter?
@@KingsRight no, titanium has been proven to be ineffective for a properly balanced and functional sword.
Great review
Thanks glad you enjoyed it!
Hi . very good video on the atlantean conan. what product do you use to make it so golden and polished? I also have the windlass marto and is brown compared to yours. thank you and hello from france
Thanks, I use Flitz polish. I have a cleaning tutorial on my channel too. It's not polishing the Atlantean but it shows the products I use and techniques.
3:00 Off topic but I dont buy it was Kull on the throne for one reason and one reason only . Anyone who is familiar with King Kull knows ........BY THIS AXE I RULE . I dont buy he would be buried with a sword and not an axe .
Yea I agree too just added it to place similarity between the Characters from the film standpoint since Howard always affiliated Conan as being a decedent or the Cimmerians themselves decedents of Atlanteans.
No follow up showing the dismantling and interior construction yet?
Working on it, had to put new content on hold for awhile unfortunately.
I own the 90's Stainless Version. Is a Two. Handed Sword. The Half sword technique is Unique..Is like a short spear. If a guy had Super Strength, then the sword would be very formidable. I think feeling the weight as a mere human. I was weight lifter and still could feel the weight... Made for a Giant shows the Super Human Stregth Of Conan...😎...
The Marto one from the TV series? Or the Marto 90s movie model?
Where can I got an authentic one? I saw the Marto one available on Etsy.
How is are all the swords typically, and who is a legit seller?
Unfortunately the Windlass ones are kinda hard to find right now until a new run of them is released. The official seller in the US is Museum Replicas. There are a few of the Windlass models available on Ebay but they are a little over priced and of course it's a little hard to trust Ebay. Best bet would be to Email or call Museum Replicas and see when the next batch of Conan swords are due for sale.
So is this one battle ready unlike the marto variants?
Correct. Marto use Stainless Steel, this one is Carbon Steel.
it might be a fantasy sword but its design and construction of the early reproductions was rugged and tough with a well tempered blade. a friend of mine had one that he beat the heck out of stuff with it and it survived it all.
I would like the disassemble my Atlantis does anybody have any tips
Hi, complete amateur here. What did you use to do the polishing please?
Flitz brand polish. It pretty easy to find in most hardware stores in the US if your located in the USA. You can also buy it online at Home Depot or Amazon. Sword vendors KultofAthena and Museum Replicas also sell it.
@DynamoSwordChannel thanks a lot, Iam not in the US, but Europe, can see though that it is available here as well, overall, was split whether to get the Marto or Windlass edition, but seeing that the pommel can be polished on the Windlass, then its decided. To follow up if I may, considering its carbon steel, do I have to oil it regularly if placed on a wall naked?
Yea a monthly oiling will do or use the flitz on the blade too at least once a month pending handling or humidity.
@@DynamoSwordChannel much appreciated
Hi, do you know how often does.it need to be oiled? I am fairly new to the hobby. Thanks
Once a month if not handling it much. Each time you cut with a sword you should clean and oil it. But if you're just displaying it or dry handling it (aka swinging it around or holding it) then once a month should be fine.
@@DynamoSwordChannel thank you very much! And thanks again for your video, it helped a lot in the buying decision
Where I saw an excellent written description of the iconography in the pommel and crossguard of the sword and how it related to Atlantis and its fall. If anybody knows where I can find that I'd sure appreciate it
It's in the behind the scenes articles and books from the orginal release. I have images of them in the video. Should be a simple Google search to find them.
I really did not know that this one was actually better than Marto's
Классный меч. А как его приобрести? Я тоже хочу такой.
Sorry I can't get UA-cam to translate to respond.
Excellent review!
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
Bought a windlass Fathers Sword a couple years ago. Had to return it. The pommel was hollow, and free wheeling turnable...the construction did not hold up. They did a good job at the return and refund.
Too bad to hear on that model. I was thinking of getting one to have the set but if it's hollow then probably not.
Has anyone did a comparison cutting test beween Windlass and Albion Conan swords?
Not sure exactly, don't think I've ever seen anything on UA-cam. I know a guy on SBG Forum who owns both models (as well as a few other Atlantean swords from custom makers) but I don't think he's into cutting or ever cut with any of them.
@@DynamoSwordChannel The Albion Conan swords are asking for $4k on their site but for the same price I can pickup up a 15th century Japanese katana in great condition in new polish from a dealer in Japan. One is a fantasy sword that are made from bar stock steel or machine with no history, the other is handforged by ancient master, been in battles and certified cultural relic.
@@simonc4764 True but again as with most things, value is in the eye of the beholder. Some who are really into Conan or specifically the films will find $4,000 worth the price of an Albion version. Some with less budget will appreciate the $400 Windlass version. True one is a more unwieldy fantasy sword and the other be it a Nihonto or Shinsakuto are more traditionally and functionally focused. But overall a lot of people don't find value in the traditional Nihonto, hence the popularity and demand for production katana. Again it's all dependent on what the individual favors or prefers. In that mind set one is just as valuable as the other as both pieces of artistic craftsmanship, regardless of one having stronger practical functionality over the other.
@@DynamoSwordChannel I'm a fan of the original movie but its just a hard sell. I know there are modern makers who actually do traditional handforge blades who deserve merit as modern crafts but I'm not seeing it even in the Albion Conan swords. A few years ago there were resin Conon prop swords used in the movie going for sale estimated $7k, they are an entirely different hobby. Its difficult to find a connection with these replica swords even as a fan. As a piece in its own right its almost valueless as a sword because its value is based almost if not entirely in the nostalgia of the movie.
@@simonc4764 A lot of that initial appeal with the Albion models in the beginning was because Albion had Jody Samson in their employ and he was making them. But yea I understand your point in regards to a historically accurate functional sword vs a fantasy sword, especially in the higher price brackets. That's the thing about sword enthusiasts as a whole there's those that focus more on the martial arts side, tradional side and even fantasy side which gives the market a wide variety of people to sell to and please.
The Windlass versions I saw a few years ago at the MRL clearance sale they are of a threaded nut pommel construction.
Thanks for the info, I read they updated the assembly method from the loose pommel. Thanks again for confirming this!
Very informative review! Thanks :)
I just got mine from irongate finland and ialso live here so it came very quickly.
Now just to thinking about getting the scabbard to complete the sword, and it would also make it bit easier to store or maybe hang on a wall.
btw Do you have the conan the barbarian father's sword? Its also so amaizing
What's the significance of the point of balance?
It's the balance point of the sword and where it centers to the overall weight of the sword. A more forward (closer to the tip) P.O.B is going to make the sword more tip heavy and I general feel heavier in hand. A more back (closer to the guard) P.O.B is going to feel less heavy and more light in hand.
@@DynamoSwordChannel Ok. Thanks. I wonder if it's difficult for the swordsmith to figure out were the point of balance will be while in the process of making a sword.
It could be depending on their experience, there's a lot of factors that can change point of balance, overall weight, distal and profile taper, as well as the weight of the guard and pommel. Fullering can also effect point of balance.
Very thorough review, very much appreciated. Answered some of my questions about other brands too.
Thanks glad you enjoyed it and got some questions answered!
Gods, that sword is bee-yoo-tee-ful!
It is one of the best designed fantasy film swords in my opinion.
@@DynamoSwordChannel Yup. It's on my personal Mt. Rushmore of movie swords. I also really liked the look of Perseus' sword from the original "Clash of the Titans". Another pretty-as-a-picture blade.
👍🏼😃👍🏼
@@jackflash8218 my secondary soft spot if for the Power Sword/Sword of Grayskull from the live action Masters of the Universe film. There were a few good film sword from the 80s, most of them were ugly clunkers though lol.
hi what is the difference between albion and windlass ? thank you
Simply put, the Albion is a higher quality version. Albion has a Bronze casted hilt opposed the Brass of the Windlass. The Albion blade is CNC Milled opposed to the Windlass that is hand forged. The Albion has a wooden grip opposed to the Windlass having a steel grip. Overall the general fit and finish of the Albion will be higher.
Aside from that they offer the same sword. For example both have an equally durable high carbon steel blade that is heat treated. Both use original mold castings of the original prop swords. Both are offically licensed replicas.
cool
Where did you buy the scabbard?
I bought it from Reliks.com. a few other vendors might have them but Museum Replicas and Reliks are the official vendors for them.
I think after Windlass bought Marto they were/are using some Marto designed & made hilts married to Windlass blades as to make functional swords; unlike the swords Marto made by themselves.
So it's possible that the current Windlass Conan swords are using the hilts that Marto made for their Conan swords.
I know they are using the molds from Marto but yes once they acquired Marto many Marto swords began seeing functional versions made by Windlass. For example the Robin of Locksley Sword and Richard the Lionheart Sword. I think the change in hilt assembly in recent years was due to the negative reception from earlier swords though having the odd non-attached pommel.
@@DynamoSwordChannel that could very well be
Mate where can I find a good replica of the original movie masters of the universe
Nice, yea the only one I've ever seen made is by my friend Jeffrey Robinson, a custom smith out of Florida. It's pretty bad ass but of course price is high as a first class custom.
www.bronzebyjeffreyjrobinson.com/He-Man.html
He also has made a few other He-Man swords based on the toy line and cartoon.
Good review but with one mistake. The guard and pommel are not " solid brass " they're plated. But you're not paying the $3,000 plus price of the Albion either.
Albions are bronze this one is brass. I polished it down enough that if it was plated it would've shown alloy underneath if not brass.
Change out the steel hilt to a titanium one and it would bring the weight down a bit.
Possibly but that would also increase cost and how will they cast it as cleanly as brass or bronze?
Pero quiero saber si está espada es real, es decir, resiste el choque en combate? Debe justificar su costo
Yes
@@DynamoSwordChannel mmm, y qué tal si se hace vídeos que lo demuestren? No sólo cortando papiros... Choque entre espadas
That would be interesting but not usually what I focus on regarding destructive testing.
Are the sites posted in the description still active and trustworthy???
Yes I posted the video only 4 months ago and any site I link I've purchased from personally and recommend.
How much does it weigh?
Weight is everything for this sword
Just below 7 lbs
Is it sharpened?
No, not yet anyway. Plan on sharpening it myself in the future
Aluminium castings AND hollow, with an aggressively distal-tapered blade & much deeper fuller is the way to go.
Having the bevels look the same as this version, AFTER distal tapering would be the only challenging part.
Is this functional sword?
Yes.
Yea its heavy and not at all historical but theoretically could someone fight with this sword?
Well sure, if they're strong enough to use it for an extended amount of time.
The issue isn't stronger people can use heavier things longer or more effectively. But that this rule also applies to lighter things, they can use them longer and more effectively than weaker people. So a stronger person with a lighter weapon will be much more effective than a stronger person with a heavier weapon.
@@DynamoSwordChannel Thanks for the reply, I take it that means the added weight of the sword doesnt make it do more damage or at least not enough to negate the downsides.
@@HumphreyHorsehead Correct. The extra weight from this sword is 90% from the hilt. The blade is pretty similar to other sword blades in thickness, so it's durability is going to be also pretty similar.
Easter Egg: Hopper uses this sword in season 4 of Stranger Things against the Demogorgon!😂
That's cool, does it have any special meaning to it being there or is it just a random prop/Easter egg?
@@DynamoSwordChannel Spoiler:
In this scene Joyce is protected from a demogorgon by Hopper in an arena of the soviets (longer story). After emptying the magazine of his AK, he grabs this sword under the medieval weapons lying around and kills the monster like Conan would have done!😁
Almost there, starting Season 3 LOL
There are 5 swords that were made by Jody Samson. 2 steel. One wooden. One fiberglass. And one made of an aluminum with a retractable blade tip.
Ewww stranger things
Beautiful boat anchor.
Ah, it isn't that heavy lol.
I got mine from Windless about a year ago. The taper on the blade was more pronounced. They must have changed the design.
I think they have from the orginal issue, mine is one of the newer ones too but I purchased it from Irongate Armoury in Finland.
You may gotten the Conan the Destroyer version which slightly differs from the Conan the Barbarian design.
Excellent detailed review, exactly what I was searching for. One point however is you should learn the correct pronouncing of "Albion." It is "Al-Be-On." Not "Abilon," as you keep mispronouncing.
Gotcha, probably won't help though, I've noticed as I've gotten older the more my dialogue has its own accent lol!
Welp! Now I gotta watch the movie... AGAIN!!! Hahaha
Are you still going to do a cutting demo? I could not help but think that this beast of a weapon would possibly redeem itself / shine in the impact potential against heavier armour. Possibly have less chance of over flex when braced into a huge fantasy beast.
Yes, waiting for it to warm up a bit more and I'll start my backlog of follow ups including this sword. Honestly I don't think it'd do that much better against Armour than any other early period arming or warsword. It's blade profile is definitely geared towards cutting and even though it's heavier the bulk of the weight is in the hilt not the thickness of the blade.
Even when Mr Olympia used this on film, it was normally the aluminum prop sword.
Which ironically weighed more, right around 10lbs based on commentary on the "making of Conan" documentary!
Brilliant review. I didn't expect it to be so detailed. Have you ever done, or can you do, a review of the original swords as used in Conan The Barbarian and Conan The Destroyer? I believe that the sword used in The Destroyer, though supposedly the same, was an entirely different size and weight sword.
Thanks glad you enjoyed it! This model reviewed uses the same molds and has the same specs as the original from Conan the Barbarian. The Destroyer version is only available by Albion and has a long wait time and hefty price tag so probably will never get around to purchasing one. And yes you are correct the Destroyer version was a few inches longer in grip and blade by maybe 3-5" total according to film sources.
You kill my mother, you kill my father, you kill my people, you stole my father's swooOOORRRrrd!
That scene is solid, I love how "meh" James Earl Jones is, lol.
💐✝️🛐
Oof I'm selling off a DSA Anduril for one of these here soon!
Not a fan the DSA or simply selling to get the funds?
Dont need to cut weight,grow your arms...it was meant for Conan
MARTO IS THE BEST BUY
I have the same sword, something I've always wanted since i was a kid. Only thing I don't like is I'd like the etchings a little deeper. I did pay the extra for a sharpened version but it came dull unfortunately.
Nice, yea the blade etching are electroplated rather than engraved which is a downer but again costs and budgeting. That's too bad did you contant MRL and get your sharpening cost refunded?
@@DynamoSwordChannel yeah got it refunded but means I'm sat with a blunt sword. Too frightened to even attempt sharpening it. It is what it is I guess.
@The Angry Pirate ok good. Yea I got to sharpen mine myself but I have experience and the proper tools. Nobody local in your area who would maybe take a shot at it?
Na, not that i really trust, I can sharpen a knife to shaving sharp but wouldn't have a clue where to start on something this size.
@@DynamoSwordChannelI would also prefer to have the Runes deeper in the Blade. It is the only visual Drawback to this Sword in my Opinion. Do you think a professional Engraver could help ?
The tang is welded on to the sword, that's why I sold mine 🤔
Did you have the Windlass Model or one of the stainless steel models? All the Windlass models I've seen deconstructed have been full tang with no welding. There's pics in the video showing two different swords with full tangs deconstructed in my video, one a pic from MRL warehouse and the second from a private owner from SBG forum.
Really didn't care for the clearly audible rattle it produced when you struck it to find point of percussion at around 7:25...sounds cheap and flimsy...hope I'm wrong.
It's just really heavy and there's a lot of metal to the hilt. Nothing is loose or rattles in the hilt itself.
I have the Museum Prop Replica version that I bought for $415 on eBay, which looks VERY close to the Albion version. I figure since my sword would just hang on the wall of my man cave, there was no need to get the $3,200 Albion version when my $415 version is just as good.
I would appreciate if you could provide a link or how you found your sword, I would love to purchase it.
That rattle when you struck the hilt..... For an Albion ??
This isn't the Albion it's the Windlass. But yes whenever you have heavy hilted swords like this, if there is any gap in the hilt parts you get rattle. For example the rattle you heard from mine was the slight gap in the langets touching the blade during the blades vibration.
This brand sword belong to god of conen✝️