NEW HAMPTON, N.Y. (AP) — John Lundemo (LUHN'-deh-moh) lives by the sword.

The upstate New York man has carved out a niche making high-end swords that look like they should be pulled from a stone, swung by a Samurai or thrust on "Game of Thrones."

The swords can stretch up to six feet and sell for upward of $1,500. While not precisely like the weapons wielded by gladiators, these weapons are built to be used — even if it's for slashing through milk jugs in the backyard.

Experts say such pop culture hits as "Game of Thrones" and "Lord of the Rings" helped drive interest in a growing market.

Lundemo's swords are on the high end of a business that includes dozens of manufacturers selling replicas, fantasy swords and bargain blades for under $100.

More From WIBX 950