My view on fantasy swords is that they should function like a real sword first and foremost. I will usually base my own fantasy pieces on the same functional physics as my historical swords. Call it "Historical Fantasy" if you want.

My theme choices can vary, from mildly fantastic historic designs, to all out fantasy design elements.  My blades are always built first and the hilt components created to comply with the design, function, and handling of the blade itself.  This methods ensures that the sword still feels like a proper sword, as well as minimalizes the excess weight that Fantasy swords have developed a reputation for.

Steel choices, heat-treating, and construction techniques are the same as what can be found on my Historical blades.   As with my Historical European pieces, I prefer not to create any dismountable hilts.  I feel that if a customer can take their sword apart they will.  This can and will lead to rapid wearing of all the hilt components, and may lead to the failure of one or more component (most often the grip).