I've been considering buying some new trainers and whilst most HEMA clubs are using either synthetics or steel (typically both), I know of some other groups using wasters made of aircraft aluminum. I am considering this option for the value it presents and I'd like to hear some of your opinions on these types of trainers. I'm specifically looking at Sword Crafts which produces some very fine aluminum swords...
http://www.swordcrafts.com/The only downside seems to be the lack of blade flexibility which means you have to be careful in a thrust and hold back. For Meyer's students this shouldn't present a problem since Meyer didn't include thrusts in his system.
On the positive side I have been told that they last virtually forever, feel very well for weight and balance. They are not much cheaper than steel and so some would likely say to just purchase steel but steel breaks and often enough it will break under a year when used for drills and sparring consistently. One gentleman told me that a man in his club had been using an aluminum sword for 7 years and was still in good shape. You could NEVER use a steel sword for 7 years. So the value is in its longevity for sure. Further they are quite beautiful pieces as you can see here...
Sword Crafts also does custom orders. This is the only source for these swords I have so if anyone has other suggestions for suppliers I'd love to see their works as well.
What do you all think about this? Aluminum seems to be a good option for clubs since these swords can take the abuse and be continually used. They can't be used in tournaments but in training they seem like an excellent option.
