The Rawlings synthetic line is one of the most available and cheapest option when it comes to training weapons. Padded and wooden weapons can be cheaper, but still, they can be dirt cheap, especially when ordered in bulk.
I used the longsword simulator type of swords on a couple of occasions (some workshops and some tournaments, also in my class for a couple of hours) and my personal opinion about them is that they are not so great.
Cons:
– They whip around a lot. It is very hard to work from the bind with them, also it is hard to parry properly, the blade can just whip around your defense.
– They are very light (you can add weight with metal pommel and crossguard, but still the blade will be very light)
– They slide around a lot in the bind.
Pros:
– They are cheap and widely available.
– They can be disassambled and transported/stored easily.
– They are quite safe if you don’t go full retard with them. They are not toys, you can break hands and dent masks with them if you swing with great force!
– You can get away with less protective equipment with them, but still a lot depends on the fighters and the intensity of the fight (great article about this: http://www.encasedinsteel.co.uk/2015/06/05/synthetic-vs-steel-or-a-question-of-intensity/).
For somebody just starting out HEMA and looking for a cheap training tool I would recommend something from Blackfencer instead (or save up more and buy some steel). But if you want a lot of swords to give out to beginners in your class maybe a couple of these can do the job, until the guys can get something better.
Video reviews by Skallagrim:
Video review by Matthew Brown:
Video by Matt Easton:
Available at:
http://www.thehemashop.com/
HEMA EQUIPMENT 