Aragorn’s Weapons: Combining Lore and Memorabilia
Aragorn, son of Arathorn, is one of the most memorable characters in Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings film trilogy. Known for his quiet strength and reluctant nobility, Aragorn's character arc is closely tied to the legendary weapons he carries. Aragorn’s sword and weapons tell part of his story, from his days as the wandering ranger "Strider" to his rise as the King of Gondor. While some of these weapons are lifted directly from Tolkien’s books, others were adapted or created specifically for the films to emphasize Aragorn’s evolution. For fans, collectors, and cosplayers, understanding these weapons is part of appreciating Aragorn's full legacy. Here’s a comprehensive look at each major weapon he uses on screen, how it ties into Tolkien's lore, and what to look for if you're building your own replica collection.
Ranger Sword (Strider’s Sword)
When we first meet Aragorn in The Fellowship of the Ring, he goes by the name Strider. As a ranger, he carries a practical longsword that reflects his nomadic and battle-hardened lifestyle. This weapon is simple and built for function over form. It’s not flashy, but in Aragorn’s hands, it is deadly. In Tolkien’s books, he never describes a separate ranger sword. He does say that Aragorn carries a sword when introduced, but it is already broken — referring to the shards of Narsil. The Ranger Sword is a film invention, designed to make sense for a character who lives on the road and stays under the radar.
Key features of this sword:
- Double-edged blade with a broad fuller
- Plain cruciform crossguard
- Leather-wrapped grip
- Unadorned pommel with a dark finish
For authenticity, choose a longsword with minimal ornamentation and a rugged finish. United Cutlery offers high-quality replicas that capture the worn, utilitarian look of the original. A screen-accurate version should look functional, not decorative.
Narsil (The Broken Sword)
In Rivendell, we see the remnants of Narsil — the sword Elendil used to strike down Sauron during the Last Alliance of Elves and Men. Though broken, its presence looms large. In one deleted scene, Aragorn is shown handling the shards but hesitating to accept them, signaling his reluctance to embrace his heritage. Narsil is a core part of Aragorn’s story. He carries the shards with him from the beginning of the narrative, and the sword is reforged into Andúril before the Fellowship departs Rivendell — much earlier than in the films. Key features of Narsil:
- Long hilt and aged, noble design
- Elvish runes etched into the blade or hilt
There are two options for Narsil. You can have one that recreates the shards, or one that recreates the. High-end replicas recreate the broken sword with dramatic fractured lines and detailed runes. These are mostly for display, not use. But you can also have the unbroken sword as it was carried by Elendil in the prologue of the first film.
Andúril, Flame of the West
Aragorn’s sword that is widely recognized, Andúril is the reforged version of Narsil, brought back to life by Elven smiths in Rivendell. In the films, this moment occurs in The Return of the King, marking Aragorn’s transformation from ranger to king. Andúril is central to Aragorn’s identity. The reforging happens early in the story, and he carries the blade throughout his journey. Tolkien describes it in vivid detail, noting its brilliance and the runes that run along its length. The features of this weapon include:
The Claymore in Modern Media
The image of the claymore has transcended history, becoming a staple in popular culture across genres. Whether in film, anime, or video games, the sword is frequently portrayed as a mighty, awe-inspiring weapon wielded by powerful heroes or tragic champions.
- Bright, polished blade with Elvish inscriptions along the fuller
- Ornate winged crossguard
- Leather-wrapped grip and regal pommel
- A mix of function and Elven artistry
A top-tier replica of Andúril should be full-sized with finely etched runes and a hilt that mirrors the elegant design from the films. United Cutlery’s official model is a standout, often sold with a matching scabbard and wall plaque. It’s the showpiece of any Aragorn collection.
Complete the Collection Here at True Swords
If you want to recreate Aragorn’s full cinematic arsenal, these weapons are essential to have, because they are more than just collectibles. They’re physical symbols of Aragorn’s journey, from exile to heir, from ranger to king. Owning and displaying them is a way to connect with the spirit of Middle-earth and the legacy of one of its greatest heroes. Explore our selection here at True Swords now for your Middle-earth replicas!