According to most historians the Rapier first appeared on the sword scene in the late 14th century and held sway in most of Europe until the late 16th century except in Spain where it endured clear into the 18th century. The reason for its long reign as the civilian weapon of choice for self-defense and dueling can be tied to its two major advantages.
First its long, slim, double edged blade was ideal for delivering point oriented blows at a great distance while still being able to deliver a stinging cut. And secondly, its continually evolving hilt of rings, bars, quillions, shells, and eventually, an intricately chiseled cup offered excellent protection (especially now that the armored gauntlet had been abandoned) and shed, caught or deflected blows at the sword hand and forearm with great aplomb.
Sadly, while never proven ineffective or obsolete, the rapier eventually succumbed to the dictates of fashion and gave way to the emerging small sword. Happily Cold Steel has chosen to revive the Rapier with their own interpretation designed by Dave Baker. The long, narrow blade is fully sharpened and beautifully polished with a single wide fuller at the forte to assure perfect balance. The hilt also reflects the best in craftsmanship and materials fashioned from stainless steel featuring a classic ribbed shell and multiple bars, quillions and knuckle bow for unparalleled hard protection. The grip itself is made of wood covered with rich black ray skin and decorative wire and terminates in a heavy ribbed pommel that serves as a counter balance to the Rapier's long blade.
Cold Steel Knives, Cold Steel Swords Series, 1055 Blade Steel, Ray Skin Handle Material, Swords, Swords European
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