Pavel Marek rapier

[Jose_Pereira]

Greetings to all

This is my first post in this forum. I'm a fencing student from Portugal. Most of my training is with the longsword, but I spend some time with Capoferro's teaching whenever I can. This brings us to the fact that I'm currently search for a new rapier.

The Hanwei Practical 43'' seems to be out of stock everywhere, due to the fire at the factory. Also, I still have some doubts with the Torinos, Solingen, etc being used for serious HEMA training. So this can be an oportunity to go for some more up market stuff.

I've handled a Pavel Marek hilt recently and was very impressed by it. Even with their new prices (240€ standard, 280 for more complex stuff) they are still achivable for my current budget (mechanical engineering student). Also, can pick any blade length between 90 and 110cm.

So, what's your experience with them? Are they worth the price? Any input will be appreciated.
Thanks in advance

[Jose_Pereira]

Well, in the absense of answers I've just fund a suplier with two remaining 43'' Practical Rapiers.

So, let's refrase my previous question: do you think that the offerings from Pavel Marek are better enough to justify the >100€ difference in pricetag?
Thanks again

[Oli Barker]

I've never used one myself - I know Nick Thomas does, and he seemed very happy with it. You can contact him through the Academy of Historical Fencing (http://www.historicalfencing.co.uk). Alternatively, he used to post here as Nikos so he may still receive PMs.

[Jose_Pereira]

Thank you, I've sent him an email via the historical fencing site

[Eugenio]

we have several rapiers by Marek. The handicraft work of the garnison is superb but the blades are very heavy, must be changed, are sideswords blades. The price for Spain is very competitive because we have in Toledo great rapier blades at very good prices.

Saludos

[tabiris]

I have not yet seen any of his rapiers, but judging from his longswords, a falchion, and a messer i saw, I'd say he's great for reenactment, not that good for HEMA...