1. Less useful, but still necessary for
high magic or
theurgy that involves chaotic spirits, is the sword. This is similar in its functioning to the
wand, but whereas the wand has a neutral nature, the sword is overtly offensive, projecting power to dominate and hurt. It is supposed to be made by the
Magus, but I hazard to say that not one in a thousand
occultists who possesses the magic sword has actually fashioned the blade by hand. It is considered acceptable to procure a short sword, or long knife, and after thoroughly purifying it, consecrate it by anointing and prayer to its magical purpose. I use an old British army bayonet myself, which is shaped as a sword, hilt and all, and find it effective—perhaps especially so due to its military associations.
SOURCE: Truth about Ritual Magic, Donald Tyson