17th century training rapier?

Jim McDougall · 9th June 2017, 09:02 PM

Interesting perspective Philip! and of course sounds most likely. If I recall, weren't there many cases of European arming swords as well which had these very fully sharpened radiused points, which were remarkably effective in slashing cuts?
It seems as well, in Italian fencing there was a slashing cut (usually to the face) which was termed 'stramazone' and intended to distract the opponent with said wound. I have not located the reference, but seems like somewhat rebated points sharpened in this manner were used.

Also, it has always been curious that North African swords such as the takouba always have a 'rounded point' (I believe Omani sa'ifs as well). I have always taken that this was for slashing type cuts.

While it would seem to negate the thrusting value, if I have understood correctly, a very sharp radiused tip would still be effective in a thrust, but would have to be sharpened in the full radius as you have noted.

This is an odd hilt though.

9th June 2017, 09:02 PM	#3
Jim McDougall Arms Historian Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: Route 66 Posts: 10,284	Interesting perspective Philip! and of course sounds most likely. If I recall, weren't there many cases of European arming swords as well which had these very fully sharpened radiused points, which were remarkably effective in slashing cuts? It seems as well, in Italian fencing there was a slashing cut (usually to the face) which was termed 'stramazone' and intended to distract the opponent with said wound. I have not located the reference, but seems like somewhat rebated points sharpened in this manner were used. Also, it has always been curious that North African swords such as the takouba always have a 'rounded point' (I believe Omani sa'ifs as well). I have always taken that this was for slashing type cuts. While it would seem to negate the thrusting value, if I have understood correctly, a very sharp radiused tip would still be effective in a thrust, but would have to be sharpened in the full radius as you have noted. This is an odd hilt though.