Comparing Smallswords With Historic Originals

Today we take a look at two smallswords we've just completed for orders, one blued and one bright, and compare these to two original smallswords from the Oakeshott Institute collection. Smallswords are an early modern civil weapon from the 18th century. They were one of the last type of civilian sword in widespread use in Europe and the Americas. In fact, a small sword was in many ways an obligatory part of gentleman's fashion from around 1700 right through the American and French revolutions.

The small sword derived in many ways from the earlier rapier, retaining much of the form of these iconic swords, but in a much reduced size and weight, making them faster, more nimble, and much easier to carry about. These smallswords sacrificed reach and cutting ability when compared to rapiers, but the increased availability and reliability of firearms probably made this rather a moot point. Smallswords were for dueling, and they were ideal for brawling with their relatively short blades that could be drawn and used in confined spaces, from taverns to the interiors of carriages.