The "Venetian T" Sidesword Trainer

The "Venetian T" is the trainer model of the "Venetian" and shares the nearly the same balance and weight as the sharp counterpart. These types of swords emerged in the 15th and 16th century, coming in a variety of styles such as those seen above at the Doges Palace.

Essentially, sideswords are the halfway point between the medieval arming sword and Renaissance rapier. Most, though certainly not all, are longer than an arming sword, but shorter than a rapier. The hilts have a tendency to be more complex than arming swords, but less than rapiers. There are many exceptions however. A famous style of sidesword called the "Munich" or "Town Guard" style, features a hilt with several more rings and bars than this model. An example of one is seen in the Wallace Collection.

 

As a trainer, the "Venetian T" is a blunt. The edge is rounded and the tip is rolled back to make thrusting safer. Wire wrap handles are often seen on 16th century swords. In this case the Turks-head knots have been omitted for simplicity's sake, however the result is no less durable or attractive.

 

 

Unlike the sharp version and most artefacts, the trainer model is ambidextrous and features quillions and two rings on each side, rather than a single ring and an s-guard. This can allow the user to use either hand or one in each hand for Marozzo style fencing.

Price Estimate

• A base model trainer cost about $700.
• The addition of the wire wrapped is and extra $100
• Customization can be made upon request though may affect the price.