According to most historians the Rapier first appeared on the sword scene in the late 14th century and held sway in most of Europe until the late 16th century except in Spain where it endured clear into the 18th century. The reason for its long reign as the civilian weapon of choice for self-defense and dueling can be tied to its two major advantages. First its long, slim, double edged blade was ideal for delivering point oriented blows at a great distance while still being able to deliver a stinging cut. And secondly, its continually evolving hilt of rings, bars, quillions, shells, and eventually, an intricately chiseled cup offered excellent protection (especially now that the armored gauntlet had been abandoned) and shed, caught or deflected blows at the sword hand and forearm with great aplomb. Sadly, while never proven ineffective or obsolete, the rapier eventually succumbed to the dictates of fashion and gave way to the emerging small sword. Happily Cold Steel has chosen to re...