As I read books and watch shows involving sword fighting, I nearly cringe each time that blade meets blade in a direct blow, thinking about what kind of a notch or burr that must put in the edge. Yet time and time again in these tales, there is a sword (or several) that have served warriors for generations.

I realize what Hollywood (and fiction in general) can do with reality. So, in actuality, just how long were swords likely to serve their owners in battle? Did a sword really become like a loyal friend, or were they often replaced with another sword after heavy battle?