Skallagram looks at some historical sources for their opinions on what is the ideal sword length, and provides some analysis. Like most things, though, the answer is "it depends." On factors like the type of sword, the size and strength of the person wielding it, what you are using it for (e.g., in war, for dueling, for self-defense), whether it will be used in confined spaces such as cramped streets and alleys or in more open fields and roads, and so on. And, as the second video below illustrates, it might even depend on how you travel or transport the weapon.
VIDEO: "What is the Perfect Sword Length?"
Skallagrim (8 min.)
In the second video, below, a group of people--who I presume who enjoy fantasy roleplaying games--try carrying various swords through the types of terrain that fictional characters in a TTRPG or fantasy novel might traverse in their adventures and learn some important lessons about sword length. As you might have already guessed, if you are having to push through undergrowth or move along a narrow forest path, longer weapons (great swords, long swords, rapiers, and so on) are problematic, while shorter swords will be easier to carry and move around with. You will note that the guy with the katana (the shortest sword of the bunch) had the easiest time of it. In other words, the longer swords might be fine on maintained roads and streets, or if you are riding a horse, but are probably not the best for someone slogging through a forest or jungle.
VIDEO: "What is the BEST SWORD for adventuring?"
Apperceptive_Swordsman (15 min.)
I carry a handgun. It doesn't get hung up as easily on undergrowth, and it has a range greater than even a long sword. :-)
ReplyDeleteYeah, but a sword never runs out of ammo! ; )
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