| The advantage of the sword point
over the edge became increasingly evident by the end of the 16th
century. The Rapier, with its long, elegantly thin profile which
emphasized its point, became the popular choice in civilian self-defense.
It was however a somewhat unwieldy weapon especially when it
was used in narrow, crowded streets and alleyways. Eventually
a more sophisticated, shorter and lighter version emerged that
by the end of the 17th century had evolved into an entirely new
weapon, the Small Sword.
Civilians carried it for as long as swords remained
an integral part of fashionable dress. Its primary advantage
was its stiff, lightweight blade which was forged in a triangular
cross section. It was a highly lethal weapon, ideal for thrusting,
and hung conveniently from a sash, baldric, or belt. The hilt
(compared to the Rapier’s) was simple and smartly functional,
consisting of no more than an elliptical plate, or two shells
and a light knuckle guard.
The Cold Steel Small Sword duplicates the original
model in weight, balance, triangular cross section, and deadly
sharp point, but uses modern materials like 1055 Carbon steel,
heat treated to a tough spring temper. The hilt features two
shells with functional finger loops and a light, but strong,
knuckle guard. Perfectly balanced and weighing only 22 ounces,
the Small Sword comes complete with an attractive leather scabbard
that features an intricately decorated throat and chape.
Blade: 31 1/4" - Overall: 38 1/4" - Blade Thickness
: 7/16" -
Weight: 22.6 oz.- 1055
Carbon Steel Blade, sharp - Handle: 7" - Leather Scabbard
|
