I would argue that the gladius would be very effective at both cutting and thrusting, the very acute point would be excellent for thrusting, but the broad blade and slightly curved edges would make it very effective for chopping.

Also out of the ones you listed, I would go with 1 or 3, Albion are are great choice when it comes to swords but they're also very expensive. I've had my eyes on a particular sword from them (specifically this one) for quite some time but I just haven't had the funds to obtain it.

you'd be right, as many ancient combat methods utilize the gladius in cutting maneuvers to incapacitate foes before a lethal stab, however the ability to cut is completely dependent on the model of sword, with the Pompeii gladius obviously more suited for a combined thrusting role compared to earlier variants 

I do admit albion can be over priced, but you do get what you pay for, that sword your looking to buy is pretty intimidating lol, i'll probably try to save up for more of a germanic/scandinavian style blade after i get mah gladius

I guess that would make sense, after all thrusting would be easier to do in tight formations and a wide blade would give a bigger stab wound, but what I'm saying is that the design seems to also have cutting in mind, specifically the fact that they widen towards the tip creating an excellent chopping point for when an opponent exposes an arm or leg in battle. So yes the gladius was mostly used to stab, but it would have also been a very effective cutting sword as well, which is a good thing because it makes for a very versatile weapon that can be used in whatever way the situation required.

True, it's got a decent shape to chop someone's shoulder or head with, but if you look at something like a Kopis or Falcata, you can tell with one look that those were designed to chop someone past their shield.

Dear diary,

Today I learned Joceph knows a lot about swords and shit.

u fooken know et

nice, that's a daunting task but If you have the materials and experience I could imagine you making some pretty awesome shet

It is and I want to try. Ive started off with something easy for now. Ive made a few tomahawks and customize all my knives but I want to make one day make a sword out of scrap metal but thats a long ways away.

Edit: had to edit it. I messed up the first time due to typing too fast at work. My manager(s) are looking for people on their phones.

You better not be pronouncing it "glaydius" or some shit.

what?

You do, don't you?

nope

I want a bastard sword.

how big?

 If I could...

But realistically, 42 inch blade.

lol i'm pretty sure you can get something GOT like, but there are plenty of affordable 42 inch blades

A 5 foot blade just sounds ridiculous. I'd just get a Zwei-hander if I want something close to that big. 42 inch bastard swords do look good though. Around $300.

HUZZAH http://www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=SH2411

hanwei makes good stuff, it's a bit cheaper as well


a zweihander seems appealing as well

In that case I'm proud of you.

yey

HUZZAH http://www.kultofathena.com/product.asp?item=SH2411

hanwei makes good stuff, it's a bit cheaper as well


a zweihander seems appealing as well

I love Kult of Athena. I get all my sharp things there.