Kingston Arms sidesword
The immediate predecessor of the rapier, sideswords (spada da lato in Italian) were popular from roughly 1560-1630. They also co-existed with the rapier, which always makes nomenclature a question, but since there are differing schools of use most sword scholars are relatively okay with the distinction. Ideal for handling the mix of armored and unarmored opponents of the time, a new(ish) technique of placing one's finger on the ricasso to improve the grip led to the production of hilts with a guard for the finger. This design eventually led to the development of the civilian rapier, and the sidesword continued to be used during the rapier's lifetime.
This wonderfully fast and sharp sword is by Kingson Arms, and features a 5160 blade that tapers from 5.5mm at the guard to 2.5mm near the tip. The ngrip is leather wrapped over hardwood with steel fitting; as is the matching scabbard.
Also available is a similar blunt
(The original can be seen in The Wallace Collection, sword A356)
length: 41 1/4"
Price: $320
blade: 34 3/8"
ricasso: 2"
blade width: 1 1/4" at foreguard
blade width: 5/8" at 2" from tip
grip and pommel: 6 1/2"
guard: 11"
main ring: 4 1/4" x 2"
balance point: 2 1/2" from foreguard
weight (sword): 3 lb 0 oz
weight (sword and scabbard): 3 lb 7.0 oz
