Choosing a Backsword
Choosing a Backsword, Broadsword, or Sabre
Backswords, broadswords, and sabres belong to the same broad family of military cutting swords. While they differ in blade shape and historical context, the qualities that make a good training sword are much the same.
Your first sword should be a blunt training sword, suitable for working safely with partners. The blade should be made from heat-treated spring steel, and the sword should handle in a way that reflects the historical originals.
What is a Backsword?
As Captain John Godfrey wrote in his Treatise Upon the Useful Science of Defence (1747):
"The Small-Sword is the Call of Honour, the Back-Sword the Call of Duty."
Military cutting swords have existed since long before the pyramids were built, but the backsword is distinguished by its broad blade (hence broadsword), often with a single sharpened edge and a blunt back (hence backsword), together with a substantial guard that offers excellent protection to the hand.
Backsword, Broadsword, or Sabre?
These names describe closely related weapons rather than sharply defined categories.
As a general rule, sabres tend to have curved blades, while backswords and broadswords are usually straight. However, there are straight-bladed sabres and curved swords that are not sabres (such as falchions and Japanese katana), so the distinction is not absolute.
The specifications below work well for all three types.
If the historical system you study uses a noticeably curved blade, choose a sword with a similar degree of curvature. Many sabre systems rely not only on the cutting power of the curve, but also on the subtle blade angles it makes possible.
Specifications Summary
| Specification | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Hilt | Fully enclosed guard |
| Total length | 90–107 cm (36–42") |
| Blade length | 79–92 cm (31–36") |
| Weight | 1–1.5 kg (2–3 lb) |
| Point of balance | 5–10 cm (2–4") in front of the guard |
