Arms and Armour: Swords

The sword is a unique weapon in that its sole purpose is to kill. As such, it is a specialist. It remains the most favored weapon in Fastheld, especially by the Imperial Watch and Nobility.

Shortsword
The short sword is the most popular weapon in Fastheld, and has been standard issue to just about every military Fastheld has ever seen. Short and light, it is not a burden to carry and can be used very easily with a shield. Double-bladed with a point, it can be used to slash and stab. It is predominantly a stabbing weapon. The blade of the shortsword ranges from 20-30 inches, although the standard weapon of the Imperial Watch measures 27 inches.

Scimitar
Whereas the short sword is predominantly for stabbing, the scimitar is for slashing - and thus functions for an entirely different style of fighting. The need to slash makes it more difficult to fight in formation, as an individual needs more room. While pointed, the curved nature of the blade makes it more difficult to stab. While not unknown, the scimitar is a relatively rare weapon inside and out of Fastheld. Although normally longer than a shortsword, the blade measuring 25-35 inches with a 28 inch average, the blade tends to be thinner and lighter because it does not need as much reinforcement for stabbing.

Rapier
The rapier is a stabbing weapon, having a very thing blade. Rapiers typically have a sharpened blade that is not often used. It is a weapon of the nobility or those attempting to adopt the air of nobility, a ceremonial and dueling weapon more than a tool of war. That is not to say that it cannot be used in a serious fight, should the need arise. It typically measures 30-35 inches, and a length of 34 inches is standard.