Henry V Sword Redesign: From Controversy to Rebirth

Aug 24, 2026 by AzureForge

In February 2026, we released the first version of our Henry V Sword. But soon after, we were pointed out — our sword bore a striking resemblance to Albion's Kingmaker.We acknowledged it.The design of the first version was based primarily on online data. During our research, we frequently came across images of the Albion Kingmaker, other replicas, and museum pieces. Due to the aesthetic similarities between them, we mistakenly treated the Albion Kingmaker as an original antique sword (and assumed that Albion had also replicated Henry V's personal sword). We did not conduct independent research based on the original piece at Westminster Abbey — that was our own mistake.As soon as we received the feedback, we took the product down without hesitation.But we didn't give up on this sword. We decided to rebuild it.

March 9, 2026 – The redesign project officially began. This time, we would not reference any commercially available replicas. We went straight back to the source — the original records from Westminster Abbey, Oakeshott's Type XVIII.1 classification, museum photos, and archival materials.

Credit: Carl Court

March 13, 2026 – The team raised questions about the internal structure of the pommel — the original pommel is a hollow brazed construction. What exactly does that structure look like? Should we replicate it 1:1? If we did, the difficulty, labor, and cost would all increase significantly. After weighing the options, we decided not to pursue it.
                                                


March 16, 2026 – Two pommels with different tapers were produced. We posted them in the community and let users vote on which design they preferred. The version with the more pronounced taper received more support.


April 20, 2026 – The new guard and pommel were completed. This version's fittings were closer to the original in terms of detail and style.

                                                 
June 18, 2026 – The full sword was assembled. But there were still details that needed fine-tuning — handling, balance, fit-and-finish — every aspect had to be tested repeatedly.
July 22, 2026 – The final version was officially completed.

From March to July, we spent nearly five months re-researching, redesigning, and rebuilding this sword. This sword is no longer an imitation of any existing product — it is a redesign based on Oakeshott's original texts, the museum's records of the authentic piece, and the feedback we received from the community.
We have now sent samples to several independent reviewers, who are currently conducting hands-on testing and evaluation. Once we receive their feedback, we will make final adjustments and then proceed to full production.
If all goes well, the new Henry V Sword will officially be available soon.
For those of you who have been waiting — thank you for your patience. And to everyone who offered their input and assistance — you made this sword better.