Cavalier Rapier
By the mid-1600s, dueling was at the height of its popularity. In fact, this tendency to settle matters of honor with steel reached such heights that King Louis XIII of France banned dueling for fear of losing many of his important dignitaries to this dangerous pursuit!
Aristocratic nobles saw it as their manly duty to defend their honor at the point of the sword, and as such, they began not only to seek the knowledge and training imparted by expert sword masters, but also to explore new types of weapons to help them gain a decisive advantage. One sword in particular began to gain popularity—a smaller, lighter, and faster version of the rapier that was easier to carry and faster in combat. A precursor to what would become the Smallsword, referred to by many simply as the transitional rapier.
Cold Steel's® interpretation of this blade (which has been called the Cavalier Rapier) features a sharp, double-edged, needle-tipped blade that is decidedly shorter and lighter than a classic rapier, allowing for much more speed and agility. With a perforated hardened steel shell protector, rings, quillons and brass knuckle bow, it offers surprisingly good hand protection, while its wire-wrapped handle and pommel counterbalance give great comfort and liveliness in the hand.
