SERP

Training swords play a crucial role in martial arts practice, allowing practitioners to develop technique and timing without the risk of injury associated with real swords. The Cold Steel Training Sword combines durability and practicality, making it a popular choice among martial artists and historical weaponry enthusiasts.

As an Amazon Affiliate, we may earn through qualifying purchases.

Reviews

Cold Steel 88NOR Norman Sword

Combining sleek Viking-inspired design with modern precision engineering, this 38.5-ounce carbon steel broadsword brings the authentic feel of Norman warfare to your collection. The carefully crafted 30-inch blade slices through air like a historical breeze, while the spacious "cocked hat" hilt design ensures comfortable grip for both average and generously-handed enthusiasts. Complete with a black leather scabbard adorned with steel fittings, this blade stands as a commanding presence in any display case.

Cold Steel 1917 Cutlass Left Hand

The Cold Steel 88CLS Cutlass features a 25-inch 1055HC steel blade with a brown wood handle and blued finish. It comes with a leather scabbard adorned with brass and copper fittings, complete with a steel D-guard for protection.

Cold Steel Viking Sword

This hand-forged Viking sword gleams with a brilliant lustre from its high-carbon steel blade, while the leather-covered wooden handle and traditional Celtic knot embellishments make every grip feel authentic. The carefully balanced design and responsive double-edged blade make it a joy to swing, though you might want to add extra leather to the grip for longer sessions. The included wood scabbard with steel fittings provides excellent protection for your sharp new sword.

Cold Steel 88FG Battle Gim

Crafted from premium Damascus steel, this Chinese-style sword boasts an impressive 30-inch blade and a hand-polished finish. The 7-inch Rosewood handle is elegantly framed by blackened iron fittings adorned with delicate Peony patterns, providing a secure and comfortable grip. The meticulously designed scabbard completes the weapon's classical appearance while offering reliable protection for the blade.

Cold Steel Talwar Sword

For centuries, the effectiveness of cutting swords has been debated, with traditional Western thought favoring point-oriented designs. However, historical evidence suggests that cutting swords often proved superior in combat. Drawing from this knowledge, Cold Steel's Talwar combines British cavalry blade design with Indian influences. The hand-forged 1055 carbon steel blade features a curved, hatchet-point design and combat-sharp edge. The traditional brass hilt includes short quillons, a single knuckle bow, and a dish-shaped pommel for secure grip.

Cold Steel 88S 1796 Light Cavalry Saber

The Cold Steel 88S 1796 Light Cavalry Saber combines authentic design elements with durable construction, weighing just over 34 ounces. The satin-finished blade, made from 1055 carbon steel, measures 33 inches long with a distinct taper that gives it exceptional cutting power while maintaining manageable weight. The leather-wrapped wooden handle delivers a secure grip during intense use, though some users find the blade slightly heavier than historical prototypes.

Cold Steel 1860 Heavy Cavalry Saber

Featuring a 36-inch blade of high-carbon 1055 steel, this heavy cavalry saber cuts a commanding presence at 41.5 inches overall. The balance shifts towards the tip, giving every swing real weight and momentum. The leather-wrapped handle provides a secure grip while the blade's 60-degree cutting angle and sharp point make it a practical choice for historical reenactments or serious collectors.

Cold Steel 88STS Shamshir Sword

This Cold Steel training sword brings the classic Persian shamshir design into modern times with its razor-sharp, high-carbon blade and elegant black-faux-buffalo-horn handle. At just 30.1 ounces, the light yet durable sword feels incredibly nimble during practice, whether you're performing traditional forms or practicing rapid draw techniques. The leather-wood scabbard with brass fittings not only protects the blade but adds a touch of vintage authenticity to this beautifully crafted weapon.

Cold Steel Rondel Rubber Training Dagger

Made for serious blade enthusiasts who want to practice without the risk, this training dagger is a rubber replica of a real Cold Steel weapon. At just over a pound, it feels weighty enough to handle like the real thing, but it's flexible enough to prevent injuries during sparring sessions. The black blade stretches a decent 11 inches, while the thick rubber grip makes it comfortable for both bare and gloved hands. With a satisfyingly sturdy construction that's resistant to damage, it's a practical addition to any martial arts or historical fencing collection.

Cold Steel Warrior Series O Katana Sword

Made from high carbon steel with a full-tang construction, the 1060 blade is heat-treated for durability and razor-sharp edge retention. The black-topped handle features real ray skin and black cord wrapping, with a detailed brass menuki in the shape of a weapon-adorned tsuba.

Cold Steel Emperor Series Katana

This impressive katana combines traditional Japanese craftsmanship with durable modern materials. The hand-polished blade, made from high-carbon 1055 steel, delivers exceptional sharpness with a distinctive mirror-polish finish on the blood groove. The detailed nickel-silver fittings, including the elegant tsuba guard and intricately wrapped ray-skin grip, give the sword a authentic feel that's surprisingly comfortable to wield.

Cold Steel SWCHNSBR Chinese Sabre

The Cold Steel Chinese Sabre combines historical accuracy with practical design, featuring a hand-forged 1060 high carbon steel blade with a single fuller. The sword's classical style handles both horseback and ground combat, making it suitable for steppe warriors and martial artists alike. The detailed brass guard and black silk-wrapped handle provide both authenticity and comfort, while the hardwood scabbard adds to its impressive presence.

Cold Steel Roman Gladius Sword

The Cold Steel Roman Gladius combines authentic design elements with modern durability. The high carbon steel blade, while matching the classic double-edged geometry, features a spring temper that prevents the tip from bending under pressure. The rosewood grip, carefully carved and decorated in classical style, provides a secure and comfortable hold. Set in a black leather-covered scabbard with ornate brass fittings, this sword represents the pinnacle of Roman infantry weapon design.

Cold Steel Maa La Fontaine Sword of War

When you're looking for a serious training sword that matches its medieval inspiration, the Maa La Fontaine from Cold Steel delivers. Its 37.5-inch blade cuts through air like a historical warrior's weapon, with the right balance to chop and hack without feeling unwieldy. The blackened steel guard wraps around your hands like a second skin, protecting while you practice your techniques.

Cold Steel Mizutori Sword

This detailed Cold Steel katana captures the essence of traditional Japanese blade craftsmanship. The Damascus steel blade, measuring a robust 21 inches, combines durability with classic katana proportions. The handle, made from high-quality ray-skin wrapped in brown silk cord, ensures a secure grip while maintaining the weapon's elegant appearance.

Cold Steel Chinese War Sword

This Chinese War Sword combines impressive weight and balance, with a wide blade that cuts through armor and flesh with equal ease. The 14-cord wrapped grip and S-shaped guard make it surprisingly nimble for its size, while the steel ring pommel provides just the right counterbalance. The heavy leather scabbard protects the blade during transport, and the sword comes sharpened right out of the box.

Cold Steel Gold Lion Katana Sword

Crafted from hand-honed Damascus steel with a remarkable 4.3 lb weight, this katana features a gracefully curved 30" blade and precise Hamaguri grind. The black ironMenuki bears the protective Shisa (Lion Dog) symbol while the 11.25" handle combines white ray-skin wrap with black silk cord. Accented with 24-carat gold leaf, the black iron Tsuba, Fuchi, and Kashira give this Japanese artistry a touch of opulence that matches its exceptional craftsmanship.

Cold Steel Filipino Memorial Bolo 88ct

This Filipino bolo sword draws from Dan Inosanto's personal collection, featuring high carbon steel construction and a rosewood handle. At 27 inches overall, the well-balanced blade combines traditional Kris and Katana-fighting heritage with comfortable handling thanks to its substantial 6-inch handle. The sturdy sheath provides convenient carry while protecting the blade.

Cold Steel Axe Gang Hatchet Trainer

This durable polypropylene trainer closely matches the feel and weight of a full-sized axe, making it an excellent choice for serious practice while keeping you safe from real-world hazards. At just 20.3 ounces, it handles similarly to its heavier counterpart, with the bonus of being completely cut-resistant and everlasting - no more worrying about splintering handles or rusting blades. The 20.5-inch length and comfortable polypropylene grip make it a practical addition to any martial arts or wilderness survival training kit.

Cold Steel 88SS 1796 Light Cavalry Saber

This 1796 Light Cavalry Saber combines historical accuracy with practical design elements like a 7mm-thick blade base and authentic leather handle. While some reviewers note the blade could be thinner toward the middle and tip, many praise its excellent balance and sharpness. The fully-sharpened weapon comes with choice of steel or wood/leather scabbard, featuring steel mounts throughout.

Cold Steel O Bokken

These polypropylene swords replicate the weight and feel of a real katana while being impervious to damage. The detailed cord-wrapped poly grip provides superior handling, though some prefer the original smoother texture. With concrete-busting durability and realistic training potential, they've become the preferred choice for martial artists worldwide.

Cold Steel Scottish Broad Sword

Forged from 1055 carbon steel, this Scottish broadsword has a striking double-edged blade that's both beautiful and battle-ready. At 53 ounces, it's a substantial weapon that feels surprisingly balanced in your hand. The basket hilt is crafted from blued steel with a wood core wrapped in samé (ray skin) and wire for a luxurious grip. Each sword undergoes the rigorous British Proof test, ensuring it's up to the toughest standards of quality and durability.

Cold Steel 92BKGM Gladius Trainer Sword

Made from tough polypropylene, this training sword closely duplicates the size and feel of a real gladius. At 31 inches long, it's a hefty weapon that feels surprisingly realistic in your hand. The nearly indestructible blade won't chip or splinter, making it perfect for serious practice sessions.

Cold Steel Training Staff

The Cold Steel 54" training staff brings serious martial arts conditioning to your practice, with polymer construction that won't sweat or crack under your hardest hits. The octagonal grip section keeps your hand centered while you switch between strikes and blocks, and at just over 3 pounds, it feels reassuringly substantial in your hands. Whether you're hitting targets, practicing flow techniques, or trekking through the mountains, this robust staff handles everything you throw at it.

Cold Steel 92R95 Spear Head Trainer

Train like a pro with this realistic spear head replica, featuring a durable 7mm blade and comfortable santoprene handle. The 17-inch overall length fits perfectly on a broomstick for authentic practice sessions. Whether you're honing your SCA skills or perfecting HEMA techniques, this flexible spear head won't let you down.

Cold Steel Trench Hawk Trainer

Crafted from heavy-duty polypropylene to closely match the original Trench Hawk's size, weight, and balance, this trusty training axe is your best friend for developing proper technique without the risk of real blade injury. The 50cm length and 450g weight feel incredibly authentic, whether you're mastering proper grip and swing mechanics or building muscle memory for defensive strikes. While a bit lighter than the real thing, it handles just like a battlesharp, making it an essential tool for serious practitioners of self-defense and historical weapons study.

Cold Steel Chinese Sword Machete

This tough carbon steel machete draws inspiration from traditional Chinese blades while offering modern practicality. The hand-forged 1055 carbon steel features a plasma-cut taper and hand-ground edge that delivers exceptional cutting performance. The one-piece full-tang construction and over-molded handle provide reliable grip and durability for heavy use.

Cold Steel Gi Tanto 80PGTK

This no-nonsense tactical knife combines a hefty 7-inch tanto blade with a durable polypropylene handle featuring distinctive polypropylene scales and an integral guard. The spring-tempered 1055 carbon steel construction delivers impressive strength and edge retention, while the black coating provides reliable rust protection. The versatile design even doubles as a spear when converted from its standard configuration, making it a practical addition to any outdoor or survival kit.

Buyer's Guide

Cold steel training swords offer enthusiasts an authentic experience without the risks associated withlive blade weapons. These replicas combine historical accuracy with modern safety features, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Understanding the key aspects of these swords will help you select one that matches your skill level and training goals.

Construction Quality and Materials

The durability and realism of a training sword depend heavily on its construction materials. High-quality swords typically feature full tang blades made from 1060 carbon steel or stainless steel. Full tang means the blade extends through the grip, providing better balance and strength. The guard and pommel should be solid metal pieces rather than lightweight plastic components.

Safety Features

Since these swords contain no actual sharp edges, their effectiveness is determined by their ability to maintain a consistent cutting motion. The blade should have a distinct sharpened edge for proper impact representation. The guard design is crucial for preventing finger injuries during practice. Look for models with a curved or beveled guard that protects the user's hand while allowing natural sword grip mechanics.

Balancing and Weight Distribution

The right sword feels natural in your hand, enhancing your ability to perform techniques accurately. Balance point typically falls around the center of the blade, with the weight concentrated towards the pommel for stability. Heavier blades (1.5-2 pounds) provide more realistic swordplay simulation compared to lighter options (1-1.25 pounds).

Blade Design and Style Considerations

Sword styles range from traditional European longswords to Asian katana designs, each with specific blade characteristics. The primary cutting edge length and curvature affect the sword's intended use. Longer blades (40-44 inches) suit broad, sweeping cuts, while shorter blades (36-38 inches) excel in quick, precise strikes. The blade's cross-sectional shape also matters, with standard triangular blades offering the best all-around performance.

FAQ

Who manufactures Cold Steel Training Swords?

Cold Steel, founded in 1980, manufactures a wide range of training swords designed for martial arts, historical reenactment, and personal defense. Their products combine durability with realistic blade performance.

The company's training swords are made in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards and attention to detail in both design and manufacturing processes.

What materials are Cold Steel Training Swords made from?

Cold Steel training swords typically feature high-carbon steel blades, including stainless steel options for corrosion resistance. Handles are usually made from tempered steel, aluminum, or fiberglass to provide durability and comfortable grip.

Bolsters and ricards may incorporate hardwood, cork, or rubber for enhanced grip security, while pommels are often made from metal for balance and weight distribution.

How much do Cold Steel Training Swords usually cost?

The pricing of Cold Steel training swords varies based on size, material, and blade style. Basic training swords typically range from $60 to $120, while more specialized designs with additional features can cost between $150 and $300.

Higher-end models incorporating premium materials or advanced blade technology may exceed $300, offering improved durability and performance for serious practitioners.

Are Cold Steel Training Swords safe to use?

Yes, all Cold Steel training swords are designed with safety in mind. They feature blunt tips and secured pommels, preventing accidental injury during practice sessions.

The blades are made from non-sharpened steel, with intentional weaknesses that prevent them from maintaining a cutting edge during normal use.

What maintenance is required for Cold Steel Training Swords?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the blade with mild soap and water after each use, followed by drying to prevent rust formation. The handle should be inspected monthly for loose hardware or wear.

For stainless steel models, apply a thin layer of oil to the blade every six months to maintain its protective coating. Check the bolster and ricard weekly for proper alignment and secure fasteners.

What is the expected lifespan of a Cold Steel Training Sword?

With proper care, a Cold Steel training sword can last 5-10 years, depending on usage frequency and maintenance practices. The blade typically shows the most wear, with expected replacement required every 3-5 years based on regular use.

The handle assembly should last the full lifespan of the blade, provided it is not subjected to excessive torque or impact beyond normal use. Replace any damaged handle components immediately to maintain safety and performance.