The "rapier" is a thin long bladed single handed sword used primarily as a civilian weapon from the mid-16th century into the 2nd half of the 17th century. It was essentially a thrusting weapon but its edges could be sharpened and the historical treatises included cutting actions. In the early 17th century, the blades were often 40 inches or longer in length (compared with the later 30 inch Smallsword or 35 inch sport fencing blade) with a weight of 2 1/2 to 3 pounds. The rapier could be used by itself to provide both defense and offensive actions but the non-sword hand, daggers and cloaks were often put to use.

There were a number of regional schools of rapier fencing during this period, including German, French and English, but perhaps the most influential was the Italian. There also were Spanish schools that differed from the others - off-line vs. linear footwork, fewer hand and guard positions, and greater use of cuts than the Italian and other schools.

The term "rapier", as is the case of many of the words now used to describe swords, seems to be largely a modern construct. The origins of the word are not clear, with variations in a number of the early European languages, and which seems to have been rarely used historically. There is no universally-accepted definition of the term, so there is a wide variation among weapons called rapiers. Early rapiers of the late 16th century had simpler hilts and shorter blades vs. the more complex hilts and longer blades of the early 17th century - the way they were used varied a lot as well.

At the club, we use weapons with a variety of hilts mounted with practice rapier blades. There are trade-offs in all practice weapons but we seek to use equipment that promotes historic accuracy when we fence - sport-fencing swords are not appropriate.

We wear modern fencing jackets, masks and a pair of leather gloves. A gorget to protect the throat as well as breast protectors for women and cups for men are highly recommended.

Our usual mode of play is non-competitive and with our minimal "armor", we exercise care when thrusting and especially when cutting. We allow the use of the non-sword hand, daggers and cloaks as well as techniques for grasping the opposing blade or hilt to the point of a disarm, some wrestling moves and simulating strikes with pommel or knuckle-bow (just mimed and no contact with fists, elbows or knees).

The whole body is valid target and if one receives a thrust in the head, neck or torso, that could immediately end the fight whereas cuts or hits to the arms or legs may allow it to continue.

As with all historical fencing, it is most important that you do not get hit - even after making a successfully attack, it is essential that you protect against a counter strike from your opponent.

Period sources include works by: Meyer and Di Grassi (late 16th c.)
Fabris, Giganti and Capo Ferro (early 17th c.)
Di Mazo (late 17th c.)