# 2023 Magic: The Gathering The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth #688

> The Barrow-Blade foil card (LTR 688) from Magic: The Gathering's 2023 Middle-earth collection. This Equipment artifact offers strategic value for TCG players and collectors alike.

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## Identity

- **Year**: 2023
- **Manufacturer brand**: Magic: The Gathering
- **Set / series**: The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth
- **Card number**: #688
- **Product type**: TCG_CARD

## Description

The Barrow-Blade, card number 688, is a pivotal artifact equipment introduced in Magic: The Gathering's 2023 The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth expansion. Designed by Alexander Mokhov, this uncommon card features a distinctive foil finish that enhances its visual appeal for collectors while maintaining its functional role in gameplay. As a low-cost equipment with a mana value of one, it serves as an accessible yet powerful tool for players looking to bolster their creature strategies. In terms of mechanics, the Barrow-Blade provides a straightforward yet effective boost to equipped creatures, granting them a +1/+1 power and toughness increase. Its secondary ability is particularly noteworthy: whenever the equipped creature blocks or becomes blocked by another creature, that opposing creature loses all of its abilities until the end of the turn. This effect can neutralize powerful threats, making the Barrow-Blade a versatile choice in various deck archetypes. The equip cost of one mana further emphasizes its efficiency, allowing players to attach it quickly during their turns. Collectors often seek out the foil version of this card for its aesthetic quality and the tactile experience it offers. The Tales of Middle-earth set has garnered significant attention for its intricate designs and deep integration with the source material, making each card a piece of art. The Barrow-Blade stands out within this set due to its unique ability to disrupt opponent strategies while enhancing your own board presence. Whether you are building a competitive deck or expanding your collection of Middle-earth-themed cards, this artifact is a valuable addition. Its enduring popularity in the TCG community ensures that it remains a sought-after item for enthusiasts looking to complete their sets or add depth to their gameplay. By focusing on the unique attributes of each card, we ensure that every collector can find pieces that resonate with their interests. The Barrow-Blade, with its strategic depth and thematic relevance, exemplifies the kind of quality items available. Explore our inventory to discover more cards that combine artistic excellence with mechanical innovation.

## FAQ

### What is the Barrow-Blade card in Magic: The Gathering?

The Barrow-Blade is an artifact equipment card from the 2023 set The Lord of the Rings: Tales of Middle-earth. It costs one mana to cast and provides a +1/+1 boost to the equipped creature while also causing blocked creatures to lose all abilities until end of turn.

### Who illustrated the Barrow-Blade card?

The Barrow-Blade card was illustrated by Alexander Mokhov.

### Is the Barrow-Blade foil version rare?

The Barrow-Blade is an uncommon rarity in its set, but the foil version is a special treatment that makes it visually distinct. Foil cards are often sought after by collectors for their shimmering finish and premium feel.

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Last verified: 2025-11-29.