Types Of Short Swords

The earliest swords that have ever been discovered were found in Turkey, dating all the way back to 3,300 BCE. The arsenic-copper alloy weapons are short swords and, since the Bronze Age, short swords have been used worldwide.

What Characterizes A Short Sword

Like long swords, a short sword can be found in a variety of styles with a variety of blade profiles. The main characteristic that defines them is that, typically, they aren’t more than two feet in overall length. Throughout history, soldiers have used them on the battlefield for close combat. They are built to be used one-handed, as many time they were paired with a shield or used with one in each hand. Different periods of time and civilizations gave them unique designs. Here are the five most notable short swords.

Medieval Short Sword

When you think of Medieval times, it’s the massive, opulent broadswords, carried by knights, that come to mind but not everyone could afford a sword of that caliber. The average foot soldier carried a simple, unadorned short sword that was most likely made of iron instead of steel. The Middle Ages Warrior Short Sword is a replica of the weapon that might have been carried by a common soldier. It has a sharp stainless steel blade so that you get the best of both worlds with display and functionality. The cross-guard and hilt are a grey metal-alloy, and the black, ridged grip is TPU. The 22 1/2” overall short sword can be stored and carried in its black scabbard, which features leather wrapping.

Tanto Sword

The tanto is a short sword that was part of the traditional Samurai daisho, which was the array of weapons that was carried into battle by the Japanese warriors. The daisho also included a katana and a wakizashi. The tanto was the last resort back-up weapon for the Samurai but it was also used as a cutting tool. The Kojiro Black Tanto Sword is a premium example of the Japanese short sword. It has a has a hair-splitting sharp, 1045 carbon steel blade, extending from a polished brass habaki and a traditionally designed tsuba. The hardwood handle is wrapped in genuine ray skin and black cord-wrap. The 17” overall tanto sword slides smoothly into a black, lacquered wooden scabbard.

Gladius Sword

Used by Roman soldiers, the gladius is a short sword with a wide blade profile that tapers to a point. As it was perfect for close-quarters combat, it was also used by the gladiators in the Coliseum games. Combat Commander has taken the traditional gladius design and given it a modern update with their Gladiator Sword. The full-tang blade is made of 1060 high carbon steel with a tough, black coating, making it a powerful weapon. The tactical TPR handle is rubberized to give you a secure grip in all environments. It comes with a reinforced nylon sheath and is exactly two feet in length. Combat Commander is definitely your go-to for tactical, high quality weapons that will back you up!

Sword Cane

Markedly different from the short swords above but considered still a short sword because of its length when drawn, the sword cane is usually underestimated. It really became a popular fashion accessory for gentlemen during the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe. This was because it was becoming politically incorrect to carry a sword out in the open. So, the cleverly hidden short sword became the “thing”. The Gil Hibben Old West Sword Cane is both traditionally stylish and fully-functional with a just under 15”, 3Cr13 stainless steel blade with diamondback file-work. The short sword can be drawn from its wooden shaft with just the push of a button. It can be wielded with a walking cane style chrome, cast metal handle that features a gold-plated inlay. With a sword cane, you’re actually getting two weapons in one because the handle can also be used as a club.