Cold Steel MAA Messer

For this price point you are VERY unlikely to find a sword of this quality and functionality. The sword is very light and quick in the hand. it does have some distal taper, but not much is needed because of the thickness (or rather thinness) of the blade. The blade moves well with wrist cuts, and is also quick in riposte. Keep in mind that this is a short sword; the blade length is 21 inches. Is this an authentic looking messer? Sort of. The nagel (nail) is of a less common type, but the quillions and knuckle bow are of a type that is historical, and the hilt does not have an exposed tang, and is not the type of hilt type which is the main thing that distinguishes this sword type (the messer) from falchions, and other single edged late medieval/renaissance swords, although I think there MAY be at least one historical example of a messer with this type of hilt. If strict historicity is not an issue, but you are looking for a good close quarters blade, then this is a very good choice for the price point.

Ok so I'm a little biased because I've wanted one of these for a long time and finally could afford it, so take that into consideration. I was sceptical at first with some people thinking it was cheap or trash, but the balance point and weight of the weapon is superb! I've been involved in HEMA for years, and wow just transitioning into guards was a dream! Plus cutting water battles (I know it's cliche' I don't have tatami mats) was smooth as silk. The length is shorter than I wanted compared to the type of Messer I'm used to so it took some time to become accustomed to the measure of combat. I can't fault the grease and packaging since I'm glad it isn't rusty, plus if it gets scratched I'll just use a bluing kit i bougt for my firearms! If you're a historical collector then this isn't the weapon for you because this is a modern interpretation. But for modern combat on a tac vest, go for it! Perhaps a buckler should accompany it!

It's cool. It is an expensive machete with fancier hilt furniture instead of a rubberized grip. Very cool looking though. The grip feels better in the hand than expected. Good weight and balance for a 1 handed sword or machete.

The lightest and fastest sword I’ve been able to swing. Quite an amazing sword for sure. I never had such a sword before where the sheathe is leather (I’m used to wooden ones) but this sword seems to be quite versatile almost as if it was just a knife. It really speaks to me surprisingly. Almost like a wakizashi but even lighter.

Just got it today and have to say I am impressed with it's lightness and balance. It came well packaged and very greasy (for anti rust protection) that took some work to remove. The blade is unsharpened completely for about an inch in front of the guard, then semi sharp for about 3 1/2 inches, then paper slicing sharp out to the tip. The fullers and grinds look pretty symmetrical and even while the deep black blueing is well applied. The hilt is tight and the nail leaves plenty of room for my meaty hands. You can see the light colored glue/epoxy plainly at the junction of the blade and guard, which is a bit unattractive. It does not have a full tang like the big Messer so it remains to be seen how robust it will be. The sheath is stiff, heavy leather with steel chape and locket that fits tight and will leave leather bits and residue on the blade when you draw it. When you pick up the sword in the sheath, it feels double the weight of the naked blade. Naked, the blade feels very lively - can't wait to cut with it.

You wont be getting anything better in this price range. Surprisingly well made and very sturdy. Good attention to details and the finished piece passed my inspection. Not time piece accurate but you arent buying it for that. If want something like that be prepared to pay 2x or 3x more. Happy with my purchase and I think you will be as well.

Feels great in the hand. My boyfriend picked this out for his birthday present this year. The only complaint he had was there was a ton of grease/oil on the entire thing. It isn’t a dealbreaker at all though because he knows that it’s a protectant. All in all he loves it and that’s all that really matters to me. He’s just adding it to his already substantial collection of knives and swords.

I cannot believe for the price you have a real usable sword. That is absolutely beautiful I mean this thing is like a work of art. Surprisingly light very durable and with a warranty from Cold steel you cannot beat it!!