I've been asked to help a friend make a longsword. Aiming for a length of 3 to 4 feet, what metal should I use to give it a weight of 50 pounds or less? I've experimented with steel, but that is too heavy to fit dimensions. I was thinking titanium or something, but I don't know if it's durable enough. Help please.

Maybe you should ask Lisbeth. It seems like she would know the answer.

Dragon poop worked well for me.

When selecting a metal for making a longsword, you need to consider both the weight and the strength of the material. Traditional longswords are typically made of steel, which provides a balance between durability and weight. However, if you are aiming for a weight of 50 pounds or less for a longsword with a length of 3 to 4 feet, using steel alone might not be feasible.

One option to achieve a lighter weight could be to use a combination of materials. You can consider using a lightweight high-strength steel for the blade, and a lighter material for the hilt and pommel. This would allow you to reduce the overall weight while maintaining the necessary strength for the blade.

Titanium is indeed a lightweight metal, but it is generally not recommended for longswords due to its relative softness compared to steel. While titanium has excellent strength-to-weight ratio, it is more prone to deformation and damage under heavy usage, which is expected in sword-fighting activities.

Another consideration for the material choice might be aluminum. Aluminum is lighter than steel and has decent strength properties. It is often used in the construction of training or stage combat swords where safety is a priority over authentic combat performance. Since you mentioned you are making the sword for a friend, it's important to consider the intended use of the sword. If it's for decoration, display purposes, or stage performances, aluminum could be a viable option.

However, if your friend is looking for a functional, battle-ready longsword, it is highly recommended to stick with traditional steel, albeit with a lighter, higher-strength steel option. The weight reduction can be achieved by altering the design, such as reducing the thickness of the blade and employing a more efficient cross-section. It's worth consulting with a professional blacksmith or sword-making expert who can guide you through the selection of appropriate materials and ensure the sword's durability and performance.

Remember to prioritize safety when constructing any weapon, and ensure that your friend is well-trained and competent in handling and using a longsword safely and responsibly.