Top products from r/Hema
We found 3 product mentions on r/Hema. We ranked the 3 resulting products by number of redditors who mentioned them. Here are the top 20.
1. The Art of Swordsmanship by Hans Lecküchner (Armour and Weapons) (Volume 4)
Sentiment score: 0
Number of reviews: 1
2. Cold Steel Hand and a Half Training Sword 92BKHNH
Sentiment score: 1
Number of reviews: 1
Made of polypropylene.Closely resembles the "live blade" in terms of weight and size.While they’re not quite as rigid as wood, they have the advantages of being virtually unbreakable and remarkably stiff and cut resistant.This training aid will not rot, crack split or splinter.Minimizes the possib...
3. CAS Hanwei Rawlings Synthetic Long Sword with White Blade, Black Guard, Red Grip and Black Pommel
Sentiment score: 1
Number of reviews: 1
Stainless steel guard and pommelShips unassembledWhite bladeRubber-like gripsThis synthetic-bladed sword provides an excellent option for theatrical use being inherently safer than steel or aluminum. Overall: 48.5-Inch, Blade Length: 38-Inch, Handle Length: 7.75-Inch, Weight: 1.73 lbs, Point of Bala...
You could try to get ahold of Black Fencer's wasters. You can even get them at bulk price. (It seems a little difficult getting them to ship to the U.S., though.) (This is my first choice.)
The next best option would be Penti IIIs by PurpleHeart Armoury. They'll run you a bit higher than 100USD per sword, but they are worth it, in my opinion. (My club prefers this option for nylons.)
The cheapest option would be the Rawlings longsword (also available on Purpleheart Armoury). Don't get this one. It is extremely unreliable in even a mid-intensity bout and doesn't bind and wind well even in a (partner) drill; they are as wobbly as a cooked noodle. They also have poor point-of-balance, but you can fix it by attaching the steel pommel and crossguard options (which are sold separately; at that point, you have spent enough to get a penti, anyways.). However, under a tight budget, these do okay. They also seem the safest for free fencing.
I lied; the cheapest option is the Cold Steel Hand and Half Sword. Some people do a grinding mod to make it bearable. Don't get this.
These all hurt a good bit in my opinion. With gloves and a mask, I have never run into much more than bruising. You might want to get arm protectors if you are that worried, though. Just don't baseball swing your way through bouts. Practice good technique at necessary/reasonable intensity and martial consideration and sparring should be fine.
I also just noticed that you posted in /r/HEMA. Post in /r/WMA, instead.
Jeffrey Forgeng published a translation for purchase.