Developed in the 1500s from Spanish dress swords, the historical rapier gained popularity in the 16th and 17th centuries as a slender, sharply pointed thrusting sword used in unarmored combat. Ideal for self-defense, civilian rapiers became lighter and shorter over time, whereas military rapiers evolved into colichemarde swords and small swords. Due to a lack of distinguishing terminology during their period of historical use, Renaissance rapiers can encompass a wide range of styles often influenced by the countries in which they were used. At Buying a Sword, we offer an excellent variety of fencing swords and dueling swords, as well as many other kinds of rapiers. Our collection of functional rapiers and decorative rapiers display many unique handles with ring guards, cup hilts, swept hilts, and wire hilts. We include colichemarde rapiers, Musketeer rapiers, Italian rapiers, Spanish rapiers, and Renaissance small swords among our fine historical sword replicas, ensuring that you will have plenty of options when picking out your next Renaissance blade!
The rapier, born of the 16th and 17th centuries, was a change in the sword that shifted from a focus on cutting to thrusting. This Italian Brass Basket Rapier demonstrates a long blade, as well as an ornate yet defensive hilt design.
The Freemasons are one of the most intriguing societies in existence, their history clouded with questions and conspiracies. You can bring the mystique of this ancient organization into your home with the Masonic Small Sword.
The musket, though the prime weapon of the French Musketeers, was a cumbersome firearm, both to load and fire, so a good rapier was a necessary second weapon that no musketeer was likely ever without.
Contrary to her age and size, Arya Stark has a fierce warrior spirit and innate survival skills. Given to her by her brother Jon Snow, Needle the Sword of Arya Stark is perfect for fans of the younger and more fiesty Stark daughter.
The colichemarde was designed as something of a middle-ground weapon. It featured a small blade for a more nimble attack, but sacrificed nothing in terms of parrying ability. This Ornate Renaissance Colichemarde also has a fine look.
The rapier was a popular weapon across all of Europe during the 16th and 17th centuries, and each area had its own design. This Pappenheimer Hilt Rapier, for instance, is a reproduction of a sword that is based out of Germany.
In 17th century European societies, swordplay with a rapier was a crucial element in the education of a gentleman. Today, anyone can practice the art of fencing with the balanced and stunning Practical Swept Hilt Long Rapier.
Often used alongside a Main Gauche, or parrying dagger, rapiers play an important part in both Renaissance reenactments and modern fencing. This Practical Swept Hilt Rapier combines classic romantic design with modern practicality.
Beautifully polished and with a single, wide fuller at the forte, the Ribbed Shell Swept Hilt Rapier is a dueling weapon with perfect balance to its long, narrow blade. Its distinctive hilt is made of high quality stainless steel.
Inspired by the noble Templars of the medieval era, the Saint John Gold and Black Crusader Small Sword is a beautifully detailed decorative weapon. Made of 440 stainless steel, the narrow blade is followed by a black and golden tone hilt.
Reminiscent of the blades held by holy medieval warriors, the Saint John Gold and White Crusader Small Sword is an inspired take on Templar weaponry. This decorative stainless steel blade features a beautiful golden hilt with a white grip.
The advantage of the sword point over the edge became increasingly evident by the end of the 16th century. The Small Sword is a rapier, with its thin profile and emphasized point, based on the popular choice in civilian self-defense.