How about the island from papyon? Also a sword is longer and thus you are a bit safer using it. It is also balanced for combat making it easier to strike multiple attacks without getting as tired.

As for the sword breaking it is a start that uses your entire body weight and the force of your momentum combined with the force of your arm to create the most powerful strike that is physically possible. Anything but the best swords snap instant when preformed correctly. I worry that two full length swords might not have enough power to do the damage needed. Also it would be wise to use desheathing techniques to speed up the sword and to reduce your work so you can keep attacking for longer. These strats would pwn shawn of the dead zombies. lol