Choosing a Smallsword
Choosing a Smallsword
The smallsword is the direct successor to the rapier, and one of the most elegant and effective civilian swords ever developed. Shorter, lighter, and faster than the rapier, it dominated European swordsmanship from about 1650 until the end of the eighteenth century, and survives today in ceremonial forms such as the Finnish PhD sword.
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. Most training smallswords use a somewhat modified modern fencing epée blade.
What is a Smallsword?
The smallsword was shorter than the rapier, with a blade typically measuring 76–86 cm (30–34 inches), and considerably lighter, usually weighing between 500 and 1000 g (1–2 pounds).
Many historical examples have a triangular-section blade, designed primarily for thrusting, and a relatively simple shell guard, usually with a knucklebow and vestigial quillons.
One particularly interesting variation is the ‘‘colichemarde’’, which has a broad forte that narrows abruptly about halfway along the blade.
Choosing a Smallsword for Angelo
Domenico Angelo’s system works best with a lively, well-balanced smallsword of moderate dimensions.
In ‘‘The School of Fencing’’ (1787), Angelo recommends that the sword:
- have a triangular-section blade for single combat, and a broader, heavier blade for military use
- be proportional to the fencer’s height and strength
- not exceed 38 inches (approximately 97 cm) from pommel to point
He also observes:
"It is an error to think that the long sword hath the advantage."
Specifications Summary
| Specification | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Hilt | Simple shell guard with vestigial quillons and usually a knucklebow |
| Total length | 89–99 cm (35–39") |
| Blade length | 76–86 cm (30–34") |
| Weight | 500–1000 g (1–2 lb) |
| Point of balance | 5–10 cm (2–4") in front of the shell guard |
