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Spada da lato

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Replica of a Spada da Lato

The spada da lato (Italian) or side-sword is a type of sword popular during the late 16th century, corresponding to the Spanish espada ropera. It is a continuation of the medieval arming sword and in turn the predecessor of the rapier of the Early Modern period. Its use was taught in the Dardi school of Italian fencing, influential on 17th century rapier fencing. [1]

They were ideal for handling the mix of armored and unarmored opponents of that time. A new technique of placing one's finger on the ricasso to improve the grip (a practice that would continue in the rapier) led to the production of hilts with a guard for the finger. This sword design eventually led to the development of the civilian rapier, but it was not replaced by it, and the side-sword continued to be used during the rapier's lifetime. [2] [3] [4]

Although this particular type of sword is referred to in modern times as a side-sword, the name was not used contemporaneously to the sword in question (according to the current research of ancient fighting manuals). Although some early Italian sources use the term spada da lato, they are only talking about the sword that is at one's side, and not just this particular type of sword. [5] [6]

Also of note is that as rapiers became more popular, attempts were made to hybridize the blade, sacrificing the effectiveness found in each unique weapon design. These are still considered side-swords and are sometimes labeled sword rapier or cutting rapier by modern collectors.

See also

  • Arming sword – The medieval one-handed straight sword that the sidesword (spada da lato) evolved from

References

  1. ^ "The Weapon Arts - Sidesword". academieduello.com. AcademieDuello swordfighting school. Retrieved 17 September 2017.
  2. ^ "Differences about swodsmanship of arming sword and side sword". TheArma.org Research and Discussion Forums. The Association for Renaissance Martial Arts. Retrieved 17 September 2017.
  3. ^ "Fencing: Medieval arming sword to renaissance sidesword and rapier". scholagladiatoria (YouTube channel). Schola Gladiatoria swordfighting school. Retrieved 17 September 2017.
  4. ^ "Spotlight: The Schiavona and its Influences". myarmoury.com. MyArmoury.com (article author Nathan Robinson). Retrieved 17 September 2017.
  5. ^ "Is it a Sidesword? The Sword with Far Too Many Names". TheArma.org Research and Discussion Forums. The Association for Renaissance Martial Arts. Retrieved 17 September 2017.
  6. ^ "Review of a Venetian sidesword replica". myarmoury.com. MyArmoury.com (article author William Goodwin). Retrieved 17 September 2017.
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