A bastard sword is a sub - type of the longsword (see Longsword), bastard swords were basically two-handed (or hand and a half) cut-and-thrust swords. They are similar to long swords but slightly shorter (average 45”-47”) usually with stiff, sharply tapering blades of either hexagonal or diamond cross-section. The blade cross-section is shaped a bit like a chisel, designed to hold up to striking other blades and armor plates without breaking, with the stiffness and sharp taper making it specialized for thrusting. Modern tests have revealed that swords of this type also cut surprisingly well against both soft and hard targets. Oakeshott types XVa and XVII may normally be considered bastard swords. There was also another ‘civilian’ type of bastard sword characterized by a complex hilt including side rings and / or finger rings. These also usually had a flatter, wider blade and were used more for cutting (change to 4/3/5 primary attack type C, no AP bonus). These were less expensive (80 Shilling) and often appeared in town armories for use by the town watch.

Name	Size	Reach	Speed	Defense	Base Damage	Attack Types	Primary Attack Types	Armor Pierce	Grapple	Hardness	HP
Sword, bastard	L	4	3	4	1-10	SCP	CP	1	0	10	4

German Bastard sword, 15th Century


Bastard Sword, Northern Saxony, 15th Century


Bastard sword, south German or Swiss, mid-16th Century. This would be a 4/3/5, +2 AP


A Bastard sword with side ring and finger rings, German late 16th Century. This would be a 4/3/5 weapon.


Early 16th Century South German Bastard sword with a side ring and a very broad blade, more of a cutting sword. This of the type which might be used in a civilian context or by a town militia. This would be a 4/2/5, D12 damage weapon.