Boromir’s Sword: A Historical Perspective

What Kind of Sword Does Boromir Carry?

In The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), Boromir carries a large sword with a broad, double-edged blade. It’s longer than a one-handed arming sword, yet slightly shorter and more versatile than a full two-hander. That’s the hallmark of a bastard sword, a hand-and-a-half weapon used in the late medieval period.

This hybrid design allows flexibility: wield it with one hand and a shield, or grip it with both for powerful strikes. That makes perfect sense for Boromir, a battle-hardened warrior who defends Gondor’s frontiers and needs adaptability more than ornamentation.

⚔️ Fun Fact: Bastard swords earned their name because they don’t quite belong to the one-handed or two-handed sword family—so they’re the “bastard child” of both.

Is Boromir’s Sword in the Books?

J.R.R. Tolkien never explicitly describes Boromir’s sword in The Fellowship of the Ring (1954). He focuses more on Boromir’s character, deeds, and tragic arc than on specific gear. However, Tolkien does mention Númenórean weaponry in various appendices and histories (The Silmarillion, Unfinished Tales), and Boromir’s lineage from that ancient line implies he would carry a noble and practical blade.

In Rivendell, Elrond outfits the Fellowship with weapons, but Boromir arrives already armed — strongly suggesting he brings his own sword from Gondor. It was likely forged in Minas Tirith and suited for active battle rather than ceremony.

Who Designed the Sword in the Films?

The weapon was designed by Peter Lyon (swordsmith) and Richard Taylor (Weta Workshop Creative Director) for the The Lord of the Rings trilogy (2001–2003) directed by Peter Jackson.

Citation: Lyon, Peter, and Taylor, Richard. Weapons and Warfare: The Lord of the Rings, Weta Workshop, 2003.

According to Weta Workshop materials, Boromir’s sword was meant to reflect strength, nobility, and realism. Its features include:

• A broad double-edged blade with a central fuller for balance

• A crossguard with Gondorian motifs, echoing the White Tree

• A long leather-wrapped grip, fit for hand-and-a-half combat

This isn’t a relic — it’s a working weapon, forged with the logic of Gondorian warfare in mind.

Why Is Boromir’s Sword Called a Bastard Sword?

Historically, the term “bastard sword” refers to its versatile grip — long enough for two hands, but manageable with one. These swords rose to prominence in 14th–16th century Europe, bridging the gap between arming swords and greatswords.

Bastard sword characteristics:

• Blade length: ~90–120 cm

• Grip: Accommodates both single- and double-handed use

• Weight: 1.5–2 kg

• Usage: Balanced for cutting and thrusting

Boromir’s sword fits this profile exactly, combining power and speed — a perfect tool for Gondor’s war-torn borders.

How Did He Use His Sword in Battle?

In the trilogy, especially in The Fellowship of the Ring (2001), Boromir’s combat style reflects real-world bastard sword tactics. He often fights one-handed while defending the Hobbits or traversing terrain, switching to two-handed grips during full melee, such as at Amon Hen.

During his last stand, he fights a wave of Uruk-hai using wide slashes, deflective parries, and explosive counterattacks.

Book Source: Tolkien, J.R.R. The Fellowship of the Ring, Book 2, Chapter 10: “The Breaking of the Fellowship.”

Though Tolkien’s narrative differs slightly from the film, the spirit remains: Boromir dies a hero, sword in hand.

Is Boromir’s Sword Based on Real Historical Designs?

Yes. Boromir’s sword closely resembles real 15th-century European bastard swords, often associated with knights in England, Germany, and Italy.

Peter Lyon based the prop on late medieval fighting swords with a utilitarian design:

• No elaborate ornamentation

• Emphasis on durability and balance

• Historically accurate crossguard and pommel

Historical Reference: Oakeshott, Ewart. European Weapons and Armour: From the Renaissance to the Industrial Revolution, Boydell Press, 1980.

Can You Own a Replica of the Sword?

Absolutely. Timeblade Guild offers a battle-ready replica of Boromir’s sword, made for fans who want more than just a display piece.

Replica features:

• Blade: 22 inches (55 cm), forged from 5160 high carbon spring steel. Length can be longer or shorter.

• Handle: 8-inch (20 cm) full tang, rosewood grip

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⚔️ Buy the Boromir Sword Replica from Timeblade Guild

This isn’t just for cosplay — it’s a functional blade you can display, train with, or pass down. It honors Boromir’s character and the craftsmanship of the films.

What Does Boromir’s Sword Symbolize?

Boromir’s sword is grounded and purposeful. It lacks magic but overflows with meaning:

• Loyalty to Gondor: He bears it as Captain of the White Tower.

• Burden of Duty: A weapon forged for practical defense, not legend.

• Human Strength and Flaws: Unlike Andúril, it carries no prophecy—just the weight of real-world choices.

It’s the most human sword in the Fellowship—a perfect match for Boromir’s noble yet conflicted soul.

Was Boromir  Buried with His Sword?

Yes, in the film version. After Boromir’s death at Amon Hen (The Fellowship of the Ring, 2001), Aragorn places the sword across his chest in a funerary boat. The scene is deeply moving, with Howard Shore’s score echoing Boromir’s tragic fall.

In the book, the sword isn’t mentioned explicitly, but the boat’s recovery downstream implies Boromir’s gear was preserved intact.

How Does Boromir’s Sword Compare to Aragorn’s Andúril and Sting?

Here’s a quick breakdown of the three iconic blades:

Boromir’s blade stands out for its lack of enchantment. It’s all steel and willpower.

Did Boromir’s Sword Have a Name?

No. Tolkien never names Boromir’s sword, and the films follow suit. This deliberate choice fits his grounded character. Unlike the swords of legends, Boromir’s blade is a tool—worn, proven, and real.

Final Thoughts: Why this Sword Still Matters

Boromir’s bastard sword may not sparkle with elven magic, but it resonates with something even more powerful—human courage. In a world of magical relics, his blade speaks of honor, failure, redemption, and sacrifice.

And thanks to the design brilliance of Peter Lyon (Weta Workshop, 2001–2003) and the real-world expertise of modern smiths like Timeblade Guild, his weapon lives on—not just in story, but in steel.