Do Swords Really Need to be Sharpened all the Way? (Controversial Opinion)

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Quite an "edgy" topic for today's video. ;)

Do sword / saber blades really need to be perfectly sharp from the hilt all the way to the point? In history most seem to be that way, but is it strictly necessary? Let's consider some reasons why it would make sense to leave the bottom third or more blunt or dull.

The reproductions shown in this video:

Albion Gallowglass
https://www.albion-swords.com/swords/...

Landsknecht Emporium Adorian (langes messer)
https://www.kultofathena.com/product/...

Relevant videos:

The Draw Slice: Test Attempt - Sword vs. Cloth
   • The Draw Slice: Test Attempt - Sword ...  

Slicing, Part 2: When it's Useful in Historical Sword Fighting
   • Slicing, Part 2: When it's Useful in ...  

How to Parry with a Sword - Edge or Flat?
   • How to Parry with a Sword - Edge or F...  

What Makes Swords & Knives Cut Well (Sharpness, Blade Geometry, Etc)
   • What Makes Swords & Knives Cut Well (...  


Museum examples:

Medieval Hand-and-a-half sword, 15th century
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collect...

Longsword, ca. 1500
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collect...

Claymore, 16th-17th century
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collect...

Cup-hilted rapier, 1650-75 (looks dull near the hilt)
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collect...

Basket-hilt sword, 1720-40
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collect...


** Music credits **

Outro:
"Highland Storm" by The Slanted Room Records
https://theslantedroom.github.io/stev...
Used with artist's permission


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