A fuller is a long, narrow channel that runs down the length of a sword blade. It is a strategic design feature intended to reduce weight and enhance the structural integrity of the blade.
Fullers work by redistributing material and removing some of the steel while strengthening the overall construction. Much like the ridges in an I-beam, the fuller allows the blade to maintain rigidity while shedding unnecessary bulk. This approach is particularly useful in long-bladed swords, where heft can quickly become unwieldy. By minimizing excess weight, a well-crafted fuller enables better control, improved maneuverability, and less fatigue for the wielder over extended use.
