Castille Armory Late Renaissance Dueling Rapier c.1650-1700
A couple of years ago I was able to examine a matched set of mid to late 17th century dueling rapiers. Wickedly sharp from 12″ from the needle-like tip, these were light and balanced for nimble tip work making these rapiers a joy to hold. I planned on building a sparring safe replica since that day and finally, they are here.
Our version is a deeply inspired simulator of the originals that can be considered the lightest sparring true renaissance rapier on the market today. At 600 grams (like the original), it moves quickly and effortlessly without feeling floppy.
The 40″ blade boasts a narrow diamond distal taper with a very tall spine, thus making them rigid and robust enough to hold their own with conventionally weighted rapiers and side swords. While rigid, this blade is a true F3 flex and can parry with decent presence in spite of the light mass. *This blade is unlike any of our class of rapier blades as it mounts in front of the cup and tapers through the ricasso section to a second shoulder at the cross. It will not fit our conventional rapier guards.*
The guard is small but not uncomfortably so. The ricasso is still able to accept two fingers and the twist profile grip is our standard 3.5″ length. The 4.5″ diameter cup is 1.5″ deep and has a rolled edge for burr and damage management and is made from 16 ga 1018 steel. There are a few different pommel profiles by which to personalize the sword.
The true value of this rapier is in its ability to help those with wrist, elbow or shoulder damage or those with disabilities to stay in the game. When you add the confidence in quality and reputation that Castille builds, it’s a game changer.
~Sam
