Battle Ready
Windlass SteelcraftsSKU KOA_501409

Brandenburg Rapier

3.33 · 3 reviewsQ&A · 10

In stock

Price range: $297.96 through $349.95

Edge
  • Shipping estimated at checkout
  • Every blade inspected before shipping
Class
Battle Ready
Weight
2 lb 3.8 oz

Overview

Brandenburg Rapier

The rapier was the Renaissance swordsmith's response to demand for a light, civilian weapon that could be used in tight alleys, urban streets and duels. Though commonly associated with nobles, the rapier was used by men of all classes. It is a blade design given almost wholly to thrusting attacks - ideal for tight spaces. Long and slender, the blade in conjunction with good thrusting technique had plenty of reach to keep the foe at bay. The thrusting attack, while creating wounds not as outwardly impressive as slashing weapons, were usually the more dangerous, and fatal of the two. Even a wound of a few inches was difficult to treat and critical organs lie not far beneath the skin.

These qualities further emphasized the swordsman's need for timing and skillful strikes for little strength was needed to make a killing thrust to an unarmored enemy with the rapier - thus its contemporary swordsmanship schools emphasized these qualities. Rapier fighting however, was not just timing and distance control, for its manuals show ample evidence of more brutish grappling, kicking and hilt strikes.

This example, made by Windlass Steelcrafts, has a blade made of tempered 1095 high carbon steel with an oval cross section. The complex hilt of twisted metal fashionably protects the hand and matches the twisted wire inlaid into the similiarily twisted grip of horn. Lion and floral etchings adorn the thickened ricasso and the sword comes with a leather and steel accented scabbard.

Specifications

Every measurement that matters

Pommel
Threaded
Weight
2 lb 3.8 oz
Edge
Unsharpened
P.O.B.
4 1/2''
Thickness
4 mm - 3 mm
Width
25.3 mm
Grip Length
4''
Class
Battle Ready
Type
Rapier

Reviews

What collectors are saying

3.3
3 verified reviews
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Showing 3 reviews
  1. Mr P.

    Brandenburg Rapier I bought this back in late February, and I must admit that it was one of the greatest investments I made in a sword. I’m a long-time sword enthusiast, and I’ve primarily used sabres and longswords over the last 16 years or so, but I always wanted a rapier. When I saw this one, I fell in love with it. And now, after having it now for nearly five months, I find nothing bad to say about this sword. It’s lively in the hand and the blade is stiff, yet flexible. The only suggestion I would give to anyone interested in this sword is that you may want to wear leather gloves whilst using it, as the horn handle may become slippery with sweat. Otherwise, this is a fantastic sword and I highly recommend it.

  2. Dave
    Verified Buyer

    I dont recommend this one.

    Cons: blade is whippy, too much flex and it slightly sags under it’s own weight.

    The finish is subpar with casting marks, pits, and obvious welding. The pommel on mine is cracked. The wire wrap is loose and the etching at the top of the blade has faded.

    Pros.
    It’s a light sword similar in feel to the windlass 3 ring rapier.

    I’m pretty disappointed in this one. I own 4 windlass rapiers and by far this one is so far down in quality compared to the others. I’m scratching my head as to how this could be. This could be a beautiful rapier if you are willing to spend the time to finish t but the blade is a write off.

    If you like the value that other windlass rapiers provide, this one is to be avoided.

    This one should be in the deepeeka price range but even so, the blade completely lacks the stiffness I personally prefer.

  3. josephjakubczyk
    Verified Buyer

    First things first, this thing looks awesome. The twisted metal wire hilt and grip are an immediate eyecatcher. I paid for the additional sharpening option and it came razor sharp. The scabbard is very good for a sword in this price range.

    I only own one other rapier and its throwaway junk, so I cant really compare this with it. It feels somewhat blade heavy, in a slightly unwieldy way. I’m not sure if all rapiers are like that or if this one is unusual.

    As someone who primarily owns longswords, this might not have been the best first impression for a (real) rapier. It looks badass and is completely functional as a sword, so im happy with the purchase.

Q&A

Questions from the community

Ask a question
Q What type of sword is this and what is it designed for? Common Question
A — KOA

A Renaissance rapier optimized for thrusting, suited to civilian dueling and tight urban spaces.

Q How does it handle and where is the balance point? Common Question
A — KOA

It has a light, thrust-centric feel with a point of balance about 4 1/2 inches from the guard.

Q What materials are used in the blade and hilt/grip? Common Question
A — KOA

Tempered 1095 high carbon steel blade with an oval cross section; complex twisted metal guard, a twisted horn grip with inlaid wire, and a threaded pommel.

Q Is the edge sharpened from the factory? Common Question
A — KOA

It is supplied unsharpened; optional sharpening may be offered by some retailers.

Q Does it include a scabbard? Common Question
A — KOA

Yes. It comes with a leather scabbard accented with steel fittings.

Q What are the key dimensions and weight? Common Question
A — KOA

Overall length 44 1/4 in; blade length 38 in; blade width 25.3 mm; thickness tapers from 4 mm to 3 mm; grip 4 in; weight 2 lb 3.8 oz.

Q Is it appropriate for cutting practice? Common Question
A — KOA

Primarily a thrusting rapier; cutting performance is secondary and depends on sharpening and technique.

Q Where is it manufactured? Common Question
A — KOA

Made by Windlass Steelcrafts in India.

Q Any care tips for the blade and grip? Common Question
A — KOA

Keep the high-carbon blade clean and lightly oiled to prevent corrosion; avoid moisture on the horn grip and wipe it dry after use.

Q What visual features distinguish this model? Common Question
A — KOA

Twisted bar guard and twisted horn grip with wire inlay; etched ricasso with lion and floral motifs; steel-capped leather scabbard.

Video

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The Maker

Windlass Steelcrafts

Windlass Steelcrafts not only creates props, clothing, and accessories to customers and popular TV productions, but also military supplies to governments across six continents – a testament to their expertise and quality. Their weapons, armor, shields, clothing and accessories are top notch quality for a price you can’t beat.

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