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Handcrafted Scottish Swords. - Armour Class – Scottish Sword Makers

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Armour Class Scottish Swordsmiths

View from Loch Ruel viewpoint
Picture from TORM re-enactors market showing various swords

For more than three decades, Armour Class has crafted swords in Glasgow for re‑enactors, HEMA practitioners, stage, ceremony and collectors around the world.

Every piece is individually made, drawing on Scottish sword‑making traditions and careful study of historical originals.


  • Over 30 years of continuous work in Glasgow, Scotland
  • Swords hand‑forged from EN45 spring steel
  • Historically informed designs with custom options available
  • Clear, responsive communication throughout your order
  • Worldwide shipping for customers near and far
  • Matching scabbards and baldrics crafted in‑house
Shows plasma table and various bits of workshop machinery and me examining a sword and hilt.

Armour Class offers historically inspired swords and leatherwork suitable for living history, training and display. Have a look at our ranges - Early Medieval/Viking; Medieval; 17th Century; Scottish and HEMA swords with complimentary leather work.

Gilling hilt close up, with patterend  rings in the grip and etched pommel.
We are often asked to design and make swords and leather work for TV, Film and Theatre.
Our Story & Scottish Heritage

Armour Class was founded over 30 years ago in Glasgow by swordsmith Iain Bowden, with a simple aim: to create honest, well‑balanced swords that honour the blades of the past.
Working from Scotland, we draw daily inspiration from local collections, landscapes and a living martial heritage that has carried Scottish swords around the world.
Today our work reaches re‑enactors, HEMA fencers, theatres and private clients across the globe, yet each piece still passes through a small workshop where hand and eye remain central.
From here, you can explore the Shop to see current examples, or visit Ordering & Payment to learn more about how we work with you from first enquiry to finished sword.

Every Armour Class blade is individually crafted in Scotland from EN45 spring steel, heat‑treated for resilience and a lively feel in the hand.

Our designs are grounded in careful study of historical pieces, with cross‑sections, tapers and fittings chosen to echo period originals rather than modern fantasy.

For re‑enactment and HEMA use, edges, tips and flexibility are considered with durability and safety in mind, while display and ceremonial pieces receive an extra polish and attention to presentation.

Scabbards are hand‑stitched in leather, dyed and fitted to your sword for a complete, coherent ensemble. Baldrics are made to fit the scabbard.

Thistle basket, silver hilt with thistle guards, and sharp back edged blade
How to Order - you must be over 18

Ordering from Armour Class is straightforward and handled with personal communication at every stage.
  • Browse the Shop and add the swords or leatherwork you are interested in to your cart.
  • Submit your cart to send us an order request – no payment is taken online.
  • We will confirm availability, options, pricing and estimated lead time by email.
  • Once everything is agreed, payment is completed offline using the methods listed on our Ordering & Payment page.
If you have a custom idea or are unsure which piece best suits your needs, you are very welcome to contact us before submitting your cart.

If you have any questions about our swords, current lead times or a custom project you have in mind, we are happy to help.

Email: iain@armourclass.co.uk
Telephone: 0141 951 2262

You will also find us active in the community and on Facebook, where finished pieces and work in progress are often shared.

Whether you are equipping a full group, ordering a single presentation sword or commissioning something special, you are very welcome to get in touch.

Armour Class table at TORM
Payment methods
Visa, Mastercard Debit and Credit
'Handcrafted swords forged for historical authenticity and enduring performance'
Contact Armour Class

Armour Class Ltd
Unit 13 New Albion Industrial Estate
Yoker
Glasgow
G13 4DJ
Scotland
UK

Jurisdiction of incorporation Scotland and the UK
General terms & conditions
Orders are confirmed by email and payment is arranged offline. We ship worldwide using reputable carriers; delivery times depend on destination and the type of item ordered. Many pieces are made to order, so please allow a crafting period before dispatch. Returns and adjustments are handled on a case-by-case basis—contact us promptly if there is any issue with your order.



Targe , surrounded by Armour Class Scotland
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