Spada da lato

The Seitschwert ( v. Italian Spada da Lato ), often equated with the riding sword, is a product from Italy sleek one-handed sword, which forms an intermediate form in the development of the medieval sword towards the engraving optimized Rapier.

In military use, held the useful through its ability Seitschwert bat (or often referred to herein as a riding sword or Feldrapier ) long parallel next to the Rapier, which primarily represented a civilian weapon.

The Seitschwert is characterized by a comparatively slim blade and a medieval sword in comparison to more complex parry from. Normally you will find here with the obligatory cross bar various combinations of additional elements such as finger rings, Pari -rings, blade iron fist and ironing. In comparison to the later rapiers the vessels are still significantly less complete. The blade is not as long, narrow and engraving optimized as in the Rapier. A Seitschwertklinge is sharpened and still good for the chop.

Beiwaffen are also known from Rapierfechten accessories. So above all, the Main Gauche, but also Buckler, Targe, Rotella and coat was used.

Extremely rare was also with two Seitschwertern - one in each hand - fought. Formative fencing master regarding the Seitschwertes were mainly Achille Marozzo ( Opera Nova, 1536) and Antonio Manciolino ( 1531). The fencing system described by the Strasbourg Freifechter Joachim Meyer, designated by him as " Rappir " can be classified as Seitschwert also still.