Discover the Top 10 Swordsmen of Middle-earth You Never Knew About!

Discussing the legendary world of Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings, one question that often arises is who stands out among the skilled swordsmen. While personal preferences may vary, this article aims to highlight, in our view, the top 10 most exceptional sword-wielders in J.R.R Tolkien’s epic tale.

In some instances, book and film versions of certain characters differ; we’ll explore ways to merge them. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top swordsmen in J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings series:

1. Aragorn – Known as Strider, he is an Elf-friend and ranger of the North. As a descendant of kings, he wields Andúril, the reforged Flame of the West, a mighty sword that once belonged to Isildur.

2. Gandalf – Though not traditionally considered a swordsman, Gandalf the Grey, later Gandalf the White, is an immensely powerful Istari (wizard) who fights alongside his allies using his staff and magical abilities.

3. Boromir – A valiant son of Denethor, Captain of the Citadel Guard in Gondor, he wields a sword called Faramir’s Longknife during the Fellowship’s journey.

4. Legolas – Elven prince of Mirkwood and skilled archer, he also excels in hand-to-hand combat with his elven blade, Gliding Star.

5. Gimli – Dwarf of the Lonely Mountain, Gimli proves to be an indispensable member of the Fellowship. He carries a fine axe called Glamdring (also known as the Foe-hammer), given to him by Gandalf.

6. Éomer – Rohirrim captain, he is a fearless warrior and master swordsman who wields a sword named Ecthelion’s Sword in the Battle of Pelennor Fields.

7. Eowyn – Shieldmaiden of Rohan, she dons armor to disguise herself as Dernhelm during the Battle of the Pelennor Fields and slays the Witch-king with Meriadoc’s short sword, Sting.

10. Legolas

Kicking off our top picks of Lord of the Rings’ finest sword-wielding characters, we find Legolas at the helm. Hailing from Sindarin Elvenkind and a member of the Fellowship during the Third Age, Legolas was none other than Prince of Mirkwood, a swift messenger, and an exceptional marksman with bow and arrow. His extraordinary keen vision, acute hearing, and unparalleled archery skills made him an indispensable asset to the Fellowship on their Middle-earth odyssey. Notably, Legolas forged a unique friendship with Gimli the dwarf, despite their historical differences.

In the books, Legolas is depicted as an exceptionally skilled archer and swordsman, but in the movies, this skillset is significantly amplified to border on superhuman abilities. Legolas uses a bow, initially gifted by Galadriel, and later replaces his signature weapon from the books, a white knife, with a pair of curved fighting knives stored within pouches attached to his quiver. During the Battle of Helm’s Deep, he is shown using a Rohirrim sword instead of his daggers, presumably because they would not be as effective when riding on horseback.

9. Ecthelion

Ecthelion was a noble Elf from Gondolin, heading the Fountain Folk and the one who vanquished Gothmog, Balrog’s master. At some point, he also held the position of Gatekeeper at Gondolin’s grand entrance. Notably, Ecthelion possessed the most enchanting voice and exceptional skill with the flute among all residents of Gondolin. During the great battle known as the Nirnaeth Arnoediad, or “The Battle of Endless Tears”, he led a battalion from Gondolin.

As a cinephile engrossed in the epic tale of Gondolin, I found myself standing among Ecthelion’s troops, poised at the city’s southern edge. We had been held back in reserve, waiting for the right moment to strike. When Ecthelion unleashed his command, a chilling roar that echoed through the air, it sent shivers down our spines as swords were drawn and the ensuing carnage unfolded. Such was the dread his voice instilled in the enemy, they trembled at his mere utterance, while we Eldar found renewed courage in its call to battle. Side by side with Tuor and his House of the Wing, we pushed back the orcs, advancing towards the gates that seemed just within our grasp.

It’s been passed down that Ecthelion and his Fountain House clan slaughtered more orcs than had ever met their end in all elven-orc conflicts combined. In addition, during battles where dragons bolstered Morgoth’s forces, Ecthelion managed to slay three Balrogs, and his sword inflicted damage even upon their fiery essence. Overpowered, they were forced to retreat. During their withdrawal, Ecthelion sustained a wound on his left arm and lost his shield in the process. Tuor carried him off as they joined up with the other leaders within the Square of the King.

At that location, King’s Fountain towered, and Ecthelion recuperated by taking sips from it. As seven dragons guided the enemy’s advance towards the Square, the remnant army of Gondolin initiated a withdrawal. All except for Ecthelion, who lingered near the fountain in a heroic stance that became legendary in all ballads and stories ever told. It was here he confronted Gothmog, Master of Balrogs.

In the epic fight between Ecthelion and Gothmog over Gondolin, Ecthelion’s sword was knocked away during their duel. With the decisive strike imminent, Ecthelion made a desperate move, thrusting the spike on his helmet into Gothmog instead. This unexpected action caused Gothmog to stumble, and both warriors tumbled together into the Fountain of the King. Tragically, neither hero was able to escape the watery depths and they both perished in the fountain’s cold embrace.

8. Feanor

Following on our list of top Lord of the Rings sword-wielders is Fëanor, an elf belonging to the Ñoldor race. He was part of the Elven family that left Valinor, a land in the realm of Aman where they resided alongside the Valar.

Born in Valinor, he was the sole offspring of Finwë, High King of the Ñoldor, and his first wife Míriel Therindë. Skilled in multiple fields, he was a master craftsman, gem cutter, and warrior. Known for creating the Silmarils and developing the Tengwar writing system, he also designed the Palantíri.

This individual hails from Valinor, being the unique child of Finwë, supreme ruler of the Ñoldor, and his first spouse Míriel Therindë. Proficient in various domains, he is recognized as a craftsman, gem smith, and warrior. His notable works include the creation of the Silmarils and invention of the Tengwar script, while also designing the Palantíri.

Fëanor was exceptionally gifted, boasting physical and mental prowess beyond comparison among the offspring of Ilúvatar. His appearance, intellect, talent, and cunning were unmatched. Yet, his character harbored defects, with self-centeredness and arrogance as his most significant flaws. These traits would eventually bring sorrow and upheaval to those under his leadership.

It’s said that Feanor excels at anything he endeavors, suggesting he might be an exceptional swordsman, yet this ability has never been confirmed.

7. Elrond

In a more conversational style: Elrond, also known as “Star-Dome” (Sindarin for it), was a half-elven lord who resided in Rivendell during ancient times in Middle-earth. He lived from the First Age to the onset of the Fourth Age, making him one of the powerful elf rulers of yore. Notably, he was the father of Arwen Undomiel, who later became the beloved of Aragorn II Elessar.

In An Unexpected Journey, Elrond first appears as the elves of Rivendell intercept the warg-riders pursuing Thorin and his companions. He carries Hadhafang, a sword later used by Arwen in The Fellowship of the Ring, and is joined by Lindir. Upon their arrival, he cordially greets Gandalf and Thorin, recognizing their swords, Glamdring and Orcrist.

Tolkien states: “Aragorn was the best swordsman to live in the third age, even better than Elrond.“

6. Eomer

Éomer, hailing from the realm of Rohan, eventually became its 18th king and initiated the Third Dynasty of their monarchs. During the final stages of the War of the Ring, he held the prestigious position of “Commander of the Mark” for Rohan.

Éomer’s sword was called Gúthwinë (Old English for “battle-friend”). He also used a spear.

Among horseback riders, Eomer is exceptionally skilled, arguably the finest; however, when it comes to swordsmanship on foot, others surpass him.

Tolkien’s portrayal of the battle for Minas Tirith implies that Eomer, Aragorn, and Imrahil each held an equal rank or status.

These three remained undamaged, as luck favored them and the power and prowess of their weapons were formidable. Few dared confront them or gaze upon their faces during moments of their anger.

5. Imrahil

5th on our list of top Lord of the Rings (and Middle-earth) swordfighters is none other than Prince Imrahin, also known as Imrahil. Born to Adrahil II, he was the twenty-second ruler of Dol Amroth and had two elder sisters named Ivriniel and Finduilas. Upon his father’s demise in T.A. 3010, he ascended the throne. This nobleman fathered four offspring: Elphir, Erchirion, Amrothos, and Lothíriel.

Brave, proficient in leadership and swordsmanship, excelling particularly when riding horses – much like his predecessor Eomer – though not as seasoned when moving on foot.

Tolkien’s portrayal of their actions during the Siege of Minas Tirith implies that Eomer, Aragorn, and Imrahil hold equal standing or rank.

These three were fortunate and powerful, their strength and weaponry being so formidable that very few would dare confront them or even gaze upon them during moments of anger.

4. Boromir

Boromir is a make-believe figure in J.R.R. Tolkien’s mythological universe. He makes an appearance in the first two books of The Lord of the Rings series (The Fellowship of the Ring and The Two Towers) and is referenced in the final book, The Return of the King. He was the intended successor to Denethor II, the 26th Steward of Gondor, and had an elder brother named Faramir. Throughout the narrative, Boromir becomes a member of the Fellowship of the Ring.

Boromir is depicted as an honorable figure who fiercely believed in the majesty of his kingdom and waged relentlessly for its preservation. His remarkable endurance and formidable physique, combined with a dominant and influential demeanor, earned him admiration as a highly respected commander within Gondor’s military forces, and he was particularly cherished by his father Denethor. As part of the Fellowship, his determination to safeguard his nation led him to betray his comrades and attempt to seize the Ring. However, he found redemption through his remorse and valiant final stand.

In more straightforward terms: Among the captains of Gondor in recent memory, Boromir was widely recognized as the finest; there’s only one who could rival him – Thorongil, known to us as Aragorn. Despite being one of the strongest, Boromir’s impulsiveness sometimes led him into errors during battles. He could hold his ground against all three remaining warriors for quite some time, but ultimately he would succumb at the end.

3. Glorfindel

Glorfindel was a powerful Elf from the earliest days, even ruling over the House of the Golden Blossom in the hidden city of Gondolin. Following his demise, he was reborn by the divine beings called the Valar to serve as their messenger.

Glorfindel hails from Tirion, born during the brightest hours of Valinor, and his lineage can be traced back to a noble dynasty. During the exodus of the Noldor, he chose to side with the House of Fingolfin. However, he did not participate in the tragic events at Alqualondë, the slaying that occurred there.

Glorfindel bravely faced off against a Balrog on his own, with his companions watching from a distance. He skillfully dodged its whip and claws, managed to shatter its iron helmet, and finally stabbed it in the belly. However, at the last second, the Balrog grabbed him by the hair before they both plummeted into the ominous chasm below.

Later on, Thorondor, the Majestic Eagle Master, descended into the depths to retrieve Glorfindel’s injured body, carried aloft by him. The people of his land then buried him atop the craggy cliffs that encircled Gondolin. It was whispered that bright flowers (perhaps celandine) bloomed on his grave site, remarkably thriving in its rugged terrain.

2. Fingolfin

Fingolfin served as the second High King among the Ñoldor in Beleriand, one of the three Elven branches. He was the eldest son of Finwë and Indis, with Findis as his younger sibling, Irimë and Finarfin as older brothers, and Fëanor as his half-brother from a different mother. Fingolfin established the House of Fingolfin, which governed the Ñoldor in Middle-earth. His spouse was Anairë, and their offspring included Fingon, Turgon, Aredhel, and Argon. Known for his strength, unwavering resolve, and bravery, Fingolfin was considered the most noble among Finwë’s sons.

Fingolfin fought Morgoth alone!

He journeyed to Angband undeterred by Morgoth’s minions, striking the gates with defiance for all to witness, scornfully taunting Morgoth. Though Morgoth was revered as the most powerful entity in existence, he hesitated to confront Fingolfin because, despite his immense power, there was one among the Valar who knew fear – Fingolfin himself. However, Morgoth could not let Fingolfin’s insults go unanswered without appearing weak before his commanders. Therefore, he clad himself in dark armor, grasped a massive mace, and stepped out from Angband. Drawing Ringil, his sword, Fingolfin prepared for battle, and the duel commenced.

On numerous occasions, Fingolfin, the Elven King, skillfully evaded Morgoth’s attacks and inflicted wounds on him seven times. However, eventually, Fingolfin began to tire, and Morgoth succeeded in knocking him down thrice.

Fingolfin repeatedly rose and fought valiantly, as predicted by Mandos, but none of the Elves’ powers could vanquish Morgoth, a powerful Vala. In time, Fingolfin lost his footing and tumbled into one of the deep pits left by Morgoth’s attacks. Morgoth then crushed the life out of the Elven King by stepping on his neck. Yet, in his final, desperate act, Fingolfin’s blow struck Morgoth’s heel.

1. Aragorn

Amongst our premier choices for skilled swordsmen from The Lord of the Rings, we find Aragorn II, affectionately known as Elessar and Strider. He is the son of Arathorn II and Gilraen. As the 16th Chieftain of the Dúnedain of the North, he later became King Elessar Telcontar (from March 1, 2931 – FO 120 or SR 1541). He was the 26th King of Arnor and 35th King of Gondor, marking the first time since Isildur’s brief reign that there was a High King over both realms. A highly skilled ranger and warrior, he bore the remnants of Narsil, reforged and renamed Andúril, or “Flame of the West,” in the War of the Ring as Isildur’s heir.

Throughout Middle-earth, Aragorn, known as the Ranger of the North, journeyed extensively. Beyond his abilities in healing and exploration, he’d spent his life battling orcs. In the films, there was a sense of inner struggle and hesitance about accepting the kingship of men. However, in the books, Aragorn exhibited an unwavering determination to protect Middle-earth and claim his rightful position as ruler of Minas Tirith. During the Battle of Pelennor Fields, with his exceptional combat skills and towering height of six and a half feet, he emerged from battle unscathed.

He’s not only a highly skilled warrior but also an awe-inspiring leader who grasps the intricacies of strategy and tactics. In essence, he possesses all the necessary qualities.

Many viewers might not fully grasp Aragorn’s character from the film due to no fault of Viggo Mortensen, who beautifully embodies Aragorn’s personality. However, his portrayal of Aragorn’s physical stature and strength seemed somewhat off. In truth, Aragorn was the last surviving member of a race known as the Numenoreans, who were superhuman and lived for centuries. To give an idea, Boromir, with his diluted Numenorean blood, stood around 6 feet 6 inches tall and was Gondor’s best warrior. Aragorn would have been even more imposing.

He possesses the determination to seize a Palantir from Sauron’s grasp, and remarkably, he’s faced off against no less than five Nazgûl without a single scratch, all while wielding a powerful magical sword.

2025-05-22 15:16