Side Swords and Main Gauche

!!< <p>The Side Sword was a military sword of the 16th and 17th century Renaissance period that also achieved popularity among civilians, due to its relatively light weight and quickness. It also had an advantage over its contemporary, the rapier, in having the ability to cut efficiently as well as thrust. Side swords were often the weapon of choice for sword and buckler fighting. Our side sword, based on a German original, is a beautifully proportioned piece that balances very well. The “swept” hilt affords excellent hand protection and the blade geometry makes for outstanding performance in both the cut and the thrust. </p> <h3>Practical Side Sword</h3> <p>The Practical Side Sword uses the same hilt as the sharp version (SH2203), but carries a sparring blade designed for safety. Side sword sparring, in both sword and buckler and sword and dagger modes is becoming increasingly popular with many proponents among the ranks of the various Renaissance societies. </p> <h3>Trident Main Gauche</h3> <p>The Main Gauche or left-hand dagger was used in conjunction with the rapier, providing an added dimension in both offense and defense. Replicating a 17th century museum piece, our Trident Main Gauche (SH1031) illustrates the skill and ingenuity of the bladesmiths of the period. Worn as a straight dagger, the weapon becomes a highly effective Main Gauche at the touch of a button, when the spring-loaded side pieces of the split blade fly open to become blade trappers. At the same time the offensive capability provided by the point is retained. Surprisingly, many examples of this ingenious system have survived and may be seen in European museums.</p> >!!