Gallowglass broadsword

The most iconic weapon of the Vastrian Emperor's prized Cruthi mercinaries. It is a double edged sword with a large basket hilt protecting the hand. It is the martial symbol of the Gallowglass famed for it's striking design and brutallity in combat it became known across vastria as the 'Wilderklaue' or the Wildmen's claw.

History

In the latter half of the 27th century AR, most Elbrean armies and noble houses began the incorporation of rapiers into their arsenals which affected the Gallowglass as well. Though they could use most traditional Cruthi weapons, their one handed long-swords were considered an out of date design and the mercenaries were ordered to use rapiers instead. One however cannot exaggerate how much the Gallowglass hated rapiers. They hated the design, the weight and how alien the rapier fighting style was to Cruthi swordsmanship. After directly petitioning emperor Freidrich III he permitted Gallowglass smiths to create a weapon with the general image of a rapier while not forsaking the cutting power and versatility of Cruthi swords.They also improved the design of the hilt to give added protection to the hand and further offensive capabilities in combat. The result was the Gallowglass broadsword or as they called in the 'Wilderklaue.' It proved to be a decision the Emperor was happy with as the swords gave a further striking detail to the already imposing image of his Gallowglass bodyguards. They proved rather effective on the battlefield as well so it did not take long for the warriors to grow a love for the wepon.

Significance

Even though different Gallowglass mercenaries specialise in different traditional Cruthi and Vastrian weapons -(Halberds, arquebuses, claymores, etc) every single Gallowglass warrior is armed with this particular sword. The uniqueness of the sword to the Gallowglass along with the spiritual significance of weapons to a Cruthi warrior eventually led to the sword becoming a vital part of the Gallowglass identity. The sword is earned through training and deed and is given upon a candidate's acceptance into the Gallowglass which is described as the greatest privilege of their life. As the sword is commissioned by no other Vastrian military unit and only Gallowglass smiths are permitted to make them the sword is only used in any number by the Gallowglass. They swear on their blood and gods an oath of loyalty and fraternity to the Gallowglass and upon unsheathing the sword for the first time they are officially welcomed as one of them.

Item type

Weapon, Melee

Manufacturer

Imperial Gallowglass

Related ethnicities

• Cruthi

Owning Organization

Imperial Gallowglass

Rarity

Almost used exclusivly by the Imperial gallowglass, however some have found their way into the hands of others via passing down the weapon to a child or being taken as trophies by enemies.

Weight

1.3 kg

Raw materials & Components

Various types of steel, leather, ray or shark skin, breech fabric,

Tools

Hammer and anvil, Smithing tongs, furnace, Blade oil, Chisle, Rivets, Whetstone