Sideswords

Blades from a time of war and peace.

History

The sidesword was a popular and versatile weapon used during the late Middle Ages and Renaissance periods in Europe, roughly from the 15th to the 17th centuries. It was named for its distinctive characteristic: a straight, single-edged or double-edged blade, often with a sharp point, typically measuring around 75 to 90 centimeters (30 to 35 inches) in length.

It was popular among civilians, soldiers, and duelists across Europe, used in both military engagements and personal combat, particularly favored by fencers for its agility and adaptability in various fighting styles.

Unlike the longer two-handed swords of the period, such as the longsword or greatsword, the sidesword was designed to be wielded primarily with one hand, sometimes accompanied with other weapons like a dagger, cloak or an other sidesword. In combat, it was versatile, capable of delivering both cutting and thrusting attacks with precision and speed and was effective for both offense and defense, allowing for quick parries and counterattacks.

The hilt typically featured a complex guard designed to protect the hand, with variations including swept or curved guards, knuckle bows, and finger rings. The grip was often wrapped in materials such as leather or wire for improved handling and comfort.

As firearms became more prevalent and warfare evolved, the sidesword gradually fell out of use, replaced by newer weapons and military tactics. However, its legacy endured in the development of modern fencing techniques and martial arts, with many historical treatises and manuals documenting its use still studied by enthusiasts today.

Swords

Trainers

Sideswords

Our sideswords are available with three distinct blade options — blunt stiff, blunt flexible, and sharp — giving you the freedom to tailor your weapon to your specific training or cutting needs.

Blunt stiff blades are ideal for technical drills and controlled light sparring, offering durability and a solid feel.
Blunt flexible versions provide greater give on thrusts, making it better suited for free-fencing and safety-focused training environments.
Sharp blades are crafted for cutting practice, historical demonstrations, or collectors seeking an authentic edge.

Whether you’re preparing for HEMA tournaments, honing your technique in a club setting, or looking for a historically accurate sharp sword, you’ll find a configuration that matches your style.

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Firenze Sidesword
From: € 280,00 (Exc. VAT)
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Bologna Sidesword
From: € 280,00 (Exc. VAT)
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Verona Sidesword
From: € 300,00 (Exc. VAT)
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Venesia Sidesword
From: € 320,00 (Exc. VAT)
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Meyer Sidesword
From: € 285,00 (Exc. VAT)

Sidesword Trainers

These trainers are based on the design of our sideswords, with the goal of preserving their original handling characteristics, balance, and proportions as closely as possible.

We aimed to retain the same feeling of responsiveness and precision that makes sideswords such versatile weapons in historical fencing.

However, to make them more suitable for modern HEMA practice, we made key adjustments — most notably a modified blade geometry and increased edge thickness. These changes enhance durability and reduce the risk of edge damage during repeated contact, making the trainers reliable tools for daily use, intensive sparring, and even competitive fencing environments.

Whether you’re drilling solo forms, practicing partnered techniques, or stepping onto the tournament floor, these trainers offer the control, safety, and authenticity that HEMA practitioners demand — without sacrificing the essence of the original weapon.