Made a Kriegsmesser :) (Picture Heavy)

[sharxbyte]

This is the doctoral blade for my sibling who graduated with their PhD in clinical psychology. They've wanted a Kriegsmesser for a long time, and I heard that there's a tradition (finland I think) where Doctoral graduates are presented with swords. I thought that was cool, but the swords they get are tiny and not sharp. Here's my answer

Blade is 1075, hilt is mild steel (the nagel (nail) is a psi, made of a railroad spike (nail heh), grip is ebony and figured maple. I comissioned a scroll to present with it (SCA award style) and presented both upon the conference of their degree

it's fast and light for its size, and I can't wait for them to cut with it!

The name is Zitat Erforderlich (citation required)

the whole thing is hand forged, and the engraving is elder Futhark on one side and English on the other. The overall length of the sword is 52" and the blade is 38" Scabbard is poplar and leather, bag is satin and silk, scroll is parchment with hand illumination and gilding. I traded the ballocks dagger for it  (ballocks dagger is 1095, spalted tamarind and ambrosia maple)

the scroll text is:
On this day, June 15th, of the year 2024, Anno Domini, Presented to Andie Micah Leslie, Ph.D, Doctor of Clinical Psychology, In the grand tradition of seekers and scholars, and in the spirit of ancient craftsmanship, a blade is meticulously forged. On the anvil of wisdom, it is shaped, quenched in the oil of resilience, and polished to mirror enlightenment. Honed to the keen edge of intellect, so have you been shaped by academia's trials and triumphs. You stand as a beacon of scholarly fortitude. In recognition of your unwavering commitment to the noble pursuit of knowledge, I bestow upon you this accolade, the sword Zitat Erforderlich (Citation Required). Crafted by the bladesmith Alexander Leslie, your faithful brother and friend, may you valiantly uphold the sanctity of science and research, ever challenging the darkness of ignorance and standing resolute in your commitment to champion the cause of the underrepresented. Just as the finest blade, tempered and tested, flexes under pressure yet always returns true to its form, so may you, in your scholarly endeavors, demonstrate such resilience and steadfastness. This sword, in your hands, not only embodies the power of knowledge but also the unyielding spirit of a scholar who, even when challenged, remains unwavering. May this blade be a steadfast companion in your journey, cleaving through the veils of ignorance. In your hands, it symbolizes the power of knowledge and the unwavering spirit of a true scholar. Let this sword be a symbol of your valor and dedication, a testament to your relentless quest in the service of humanity and enlightenment.

Pretentious, as is appropriate for a doctoral blade I think. I still learn with every single project, which means I'm pushing myself, 

Thanks for looking!

[Irondragon Forge ClayWorks]

Absolutely outstanding and great presentation plaque. I bet your sibling will cherish it always.

I can't control the wind, all I can do is adjust my sail’s.~ Semper Paratus

[JHCC]

Very cool!