When talking about swords, people tend to focus on the metallurgy behind the construction of the blade. What types of steel are used, how are they forged, what kind of damascened pattern will be produced, what quenching method is used, and so on. Metallurgy – although it may be important – is not the only scientific element behind the construction of a good sword. Another important component is physics.
An important issue in sword making is how to make the sword as effective as possible without sacrificing other elements such as practicality and aesthetics. Making a sword requires the balance of all of these factors. But a beautiful blade may not be practical; and a practical blade may not be as pleasing to the eyes as one would like. The master bladesmith plays a role as a maestro who conducts their orchestra to play a most wonderful and breath-taking symphony.
F=ma is a very important equation in the construction of a good sword. This formula plays an important part in determining the effectiveness and functionality of a sword. Force is determined by mass and acceleration. A heavy blade with lower acceleration would produce the same force as a lighter blade with higher acceleration. Higher acceleration means more speed and agility for the sword. Nonetheless, a heavier, more sluggish blade has its own niche. A fast and agile sword is ideal as a sidearm or personal weapon, whereas a heavier blade could be used for executions and ceremonial purposes.
A sword is basically a lever. Malay swords fall into two categories, one-handed and two-handed weapons. The single-handed swords fall under the third class lever category, while two-handed swords fall under the first class lever category. The effectiveness of a sword relies on this lever action, coupled with a push- or pull-cut to deliver a deadly blow. A survey of antique Malay swords shows that some of these weapons were used mainly for cutting and slashing. Others have sharp tips that can be used for thrusting. But none have thick, heavy blades that would have made them sluggish and slow in battle.
