Celtic LaTene

[Geno]

This was a challenge presented me by a local History professor. He teaches using weaponry of the period. He commissioned me to make a replica of a Celtic LaTene sword with double fullers. It is 23-1/2" long, 2-1/4" wide at the base.

[J.Arthur Loose]

Hey Gene,

I said this in the Dsiplay Case, but I really enjoy the contrast between the historical shape of the blade and the modern cable damascus.

How much fun were those fullers?

[Jerry Oksman]

Hey Gene, how much does something like that cost?

[Geno]

Thanks J,
You might laugh, but I don't use a hammer often.I'm too old to pound for a living. This sword was 99%made with dies, not a hammer.
Double fuller dies;
2 pieces of 3/4" round bar tack welded to the plate,then another identical but opposite die to work both sides at once. Start at the tip and work down centerline, flip and repeat.The grinding was much harder than the forging.
As you know, balanced dies can be a real pain too.
Great when they work, fustrating when they don't.
I have had the same motto for years;Work smarter, not harder.
Any fool can work harder.....

Hello Jerry, I will send you an E mail later to discuss this.
I don't like to put up prices in the forums for fairly obvious reasons.Do you want a sword, or just the blade?
I do both and would be happy to help you either way.
Be blessed!

[Jake Powning]

Wow Nice one!
that looks allot like the Lisnacrogher blade, was that the inspiration.
that's a really beautifull job,the La tene period is one of my favorits but I find it's hard to get collectors interested in it, so I don't get to do as many blades from that time period as I would like.
It's always nice seeing other smiths show interest in that time perod though, I like the cable damascus too.

[Coutel]

Gene. Thats fantastic.

I visited the British Museum two weeks ago and had the chance to view knives and swords of the LaTene period. Fascinating stuff.

Kevin.

[Geno]

Thanks guys,
My inspiration was the paycheck.hahahaha
This teacher uses battle impliments to teach the history of the times.This style sword held a large appeal for a very long time.
While this one is a little different than the ones used in history, it can still cause the mind to wonder.
I have the next one started, should be 5 swords all together.This one is #1 so far.
My hats off for the teacher who made History fun for the students.
I am blessed to have a part of it, having a lot of fun too.
Have a happy little day now, ya hear?

[Roger Gregory]

I really want to see the next four Gene, this one is very special.

Roger