Rapier Dagger, 17th Century

Specifications:

Blade material: C60 carbon steel (not stainless), with blunt edges and a sharp point

Blade hardness: Approx. 48–50 HRC (Rockwell)

Handle material: Wooden core wrapped with metal wire; steel pommel and guard

Overall length: Approx. 47 cm

Blade length: Approx. 30.8 cm

Maximum blade thickness: Approx. 5 mm (cutting edges approx. 1 mm)

Handle length: Approx. 16 cm (grip section approx. 10 cm)

Maximum blade width: Approx. 3 cm

Includes: Leather scabbard with steel fittings and a leather carrying strap

Weight without scabbard: Approx. 700 g

Weight with scabbard: Approx. 760 g

The parrying dagger, primarily used as a secondary bladed weapon, first appeared in the late Middle Ages. It became particularly popular during the Renaissance and continued to be used, albeit to a lesser extent, until the 18th century. It was generally wielded in the non-dominant hand (hence the term Main Gauche, French for “left hand”) and used in combination with a primary weapon, such as a rapier or smallsword, in a two-handed fighting style.

Thanks to its distinctive guard, which protected the forward hand and came in a variety of forms (straight, S-shaped, curved downwards, and sometimes equipped with additional rings or a plate guard), this secondary weapon was primarily intended for defence. It was designed to parry, deflect, block or trap an opponent’s blade while the dominant hand, holding the rapier or sword, delivered the attack. This two-weapon fencing technique had a significant influence on the development of swordsmanship in Renaissance Europe. However, the weapon was also effective offensively, being perfectly capable of striking and thrusting at an opponent.

The Main Gauche, or left-hand dagger, was particularly widespread in Spanish, French and Italian fencing schools. Embodying precision, timing and elegance—essential qualities in close-quarters combat at the time—it was not merely an effective weapon but also a status symbol. For nobles and wealthy citizens, carrying finely crafted and richly decorated daggers was an elegant way to display their wealth and high social standing.

The fine-quality weapon offered here is inspired by 17th-century models. This attractive and affordable reproduction features a robust, double-edged carbon steel blade that is rigid and resistant to bending. The blade has a diamond-shaped cross-section, a ricasso measuring approximately 1.5 cm and a sharp point. It is forged as a single piece extending to the pommel, where the tang is peened over at the end of the handle.

The handle has a wooden core firmly wrapped in twisted steel wire. The assembly is completed by an elongated spherical steel pommel and a straight steel crossguard measuring approximately 25.5 cm in width. The guard ends in rounded, button-shaped terminals.

The most distinctive feature of the hilt, however, is the large steel knuckle guard, which resembles a sail. As seen on many surviving historical examples, particularly Spanish originals, this guard has a roughly triangular profile and a reinforced, folded edge. It curves outwards from the crossguard towards the pommel, providing sufficient space for the hand and effective protection. Its pierced decorative pattern, alternating circles and crosses, immediately catches the eye.

The Rapier parrying dagger comes complete with a stitched leather scabbard fitted with a leather cord. Matching the crossguard, both the throat and the chape are made of steel and decorated with pierced cross motifs.

This dagger is intended as a collector’s item or decorative piece. It is also ideal as a stage or costume accessory, for example, to complete a historical outfit.

The specifications given above may vary slightly from one example to another.

The steel used is not stainless and may show slight traces of corrosion. Regular blade maintenance is recommended, for example, using Ballistol, an excellent multi-purpose oil for the preservation of steel objects.