Simple question regarding US officer's swords

[James Brazas]

Anthony Camacho,

I wasn't thinking of using a Naval Officer's sword as my preferred melee/fencing weapon. Obviously, longswords, sideswords, spears, etc. are better suited for that.

I was just thinking that if I were to buy an officer's sword, I would prefer to get one designed such that it is an actual weapon rather than a mere ceremonial "sword-like object."

I was also curious as to whether it should be wielded more like a rapier or a sidesword.

From what I here, it's probably a spadroon. But I'm not familiar with spadroon or modern sport fencing, so I'd rather think of it as a short rapier or a thin sidesword. Yet I'm not sure which is more accurate.

[Jonathan Hill]

short rapier, without the hand protection (which is an integral part of the rapier...) If CS makes them too heavy like they usually do it will probably behave like a side sword but may not have the heft to really work like one. It will be interesting to see how it comes out.

[James Brazas]

That makes sense.

I agree. It would be interesting to see what the result is. I'm curious to see if Cold Steel's rendition will be worth buying.

As long as it is functional, handles well, and is within military specs, I'll probably get it.

According to their website, the weight is supposed to be 25.4 oz.

[Stacy Clifford]

If you doubt the utility of the edge then the best advice would be don't rely on it too much. I think Di Grassi would be a good resource for you because he describes swords that are designed mostly for thrusting, but still retain some cutting ability (though not much in his estimation). Cuts are mostly for distraction and bringing the point back around when it gets knocked offline, giving them a useful place in an otherwise thrust-heavy style. Seems to me that would fit the sword you describe pretty well.

[James Brazas]

That sounds like a good idea. If I get the Cold Steel US Naval Officer's sword, I just might try it with Di Grassi's sidesword techniques.

Thanks.