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Angus Trim Swords

Angus Trim swords (aka Gus Trim Swords) are hand made by Angus Trim using a combination of advanced machine tools combined with hand finishing to produce swords that are well known for outstanding performance. In fact, Gus is somewhat unique in the industry as one of his swords was owned by the late great sword scholar, Ewart Oakeshott.

Manufactured in: USA by CNC Lathe

Steels Used: 5160 Spring Steel

Price Range: $500 - $900

Official Website: None

Using 5160 steel with excellent heat treating, Angus Trim swords are built paying close attention to structural issues such as center of percussion, distal taper, harmonic balance and edge geometry. The only part of the process that he does not personally do is the heat treating/tempering, which is done by aerospace heat-treater Pacific Metallurgical. Gus’ swords have excellent shock resistance, edge retention and flexibility, especially for the price.

Typically, Angus Trim swords are not copies of existing historical or museum pieces. Instead, they are billed as “modern interpretations consistent with the design and engineering principles of the finest medieval and renaissance swords”. The fact that the hilts, handles and pommels are easily removed makes them a favourite for customization projects. Gus has often worked in the past with fittings/scabbard designer Christian Fletcher to produce swords of astonishing beauty and function.

While warranty info on Gus’ (now defunct) site was not very clear, he has stated in the past (here on Sword Forum International) that he will offer a 3-year warranty on all his swords under intended use. He does make a note that cutting concrete, bricks, steel bars, and other forms of “sword abuse” will disqualify the sword from being repaired or replaced.

Prices can range from the low 500’s to over $900. Scabbards are an additional $100 for black leather.

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EUROPEAN SWORDS

Angus has made his reputation on these swords. Highly sought after in the community and now only available on the second hand sword market, these designs – including Medieval, late medieval, and some renaissance designs – have set the standard for what a good production sword can be.

He has many different designs, and his bastard swords seem to be the most popular – though he also produces several popular sabre and other single edged/backsword designs. He also has swords labelled “low polar moment” – which means they are very well balanced and feel light and quick. These swords can range anywhere from $500 to over $900 dollars on the secondary sword market.

TACTICAL SWORDS

“For When the Bullets Run Out” is the slogan of these special Angus Trim swords. Made from a single piece of harmonically balanced spring steel with removable grip panels, these swords are designed for any manner of tactical situation, from a special-ops team to clearing brush around your home to the last line of home defense. Gus took his extensive knowledge of sword geometry to design what many are calling the “perfect contemporary sword” line. Including both European and Eastern-inspired designs, these swords are an excellent choice for anyone who plans to put their collection to use, whatever that use may be. Prices are typically between $300 and $400 on the secondary market.

KNOWN ISSUES

Probably the only significant issue with Angus Trim swords has always been that, as demand for his swords far outstrips supply, he would often get behind in his production. It was not uncommon for a sword to be later than expected, but these days little is heard from Gus and it is not clear when or if production will resume.

As such, his swords hold or even increase their value over time as everyone wants one, but the supply simply isn’t there..

The only other ‘issue’ is that, as his swords are designed to be practical cutters, the finish of the blades is somewhat utilitarian and typically exhibits small imperfections, scratches and grind marks. This is only an ‘issue’ for those expecting perfection though – and more than made up for by the swords overall handling, and legendary cutting abilities.

Fittings of Angus Trim swords may loosen with usage, however they are designed with a screwed in pommel nut that can be easily tightened as the need arises.

WHERE TO BUY ANGUS TRIM SWORDS

Gus is no longer taking new orders and has no website, and generally speaking the only place where his swords can currently be purchased is from other collectors selling their personal swords on the secondary sword market. However in recent years he has on occasion teamed up with Cas Iberia and Kingston Arms to release a handful of models that are priced around the $1200 mark - and does sell the odd sword or two directly from his Facebook page

As pointed out by one of our visitors, Age of Chivalry.com also frequently carry a few Atrims and offer them from between $1080 to $1770 depending on the design on their site here (and are also regulars of many West Coast renaissance fairs). Finally, the old standby Kult of Athena stock Atrims here from time to time, and they can also be found from time to time here under the Kingston Arms Brand at the SBG Sword Store.