The swords do not confer a +2 bonus to hit; in this regard, they acts as normal longswords.  The vorpal ability of the swords only functions when the swords are used bare-handed; several barbed wires in the hilt blood the wielder for one Hit Point (1HP) per attack, whether it strikes a target or not, per sword.  Using gloves or gauntlets deactivates the vorpal quality of the swords, making them simply +2 swords in all respects save To Hit bonuses.
They are true vorpal blades.  On a natural roll of 18, 19, or 20, the swords slay any opponent up to size Large (provided that they are used bare-handed).  Opponents can save versus Death Magic, or die.  Creatures of Huge size or greater are unaffected.
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