RAPIER
The rapier was the
weapon used in the 16-17th
centuries, it has its origin in South Europe (Spain) and
it gradually spread to the whole Europe.
It was a stubbing as well as cutting weapon used by
soldiers and civilians - particularly nobles. The profile of the blade
was mostly of oblong or the lentil shape with a chase
1000-1020 mm long, and a distinctive ricasso.
The basket was either straight or in the
shape of the letter S and was completed with a scheme of
protective rods covering the fencer´s hand. The round
profiled handle was bound braided by wire and completed by a
head of various shapes , mostly spherical or oblong,
that counterbalanced the length of the blade.
The rapier was used by cavalry and infantry,
musketeers and pikemen.
