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16th Century Italian Cinquedea, Royal Armouries Collection
Step back into the vibrant and dangerous world of 16th-century Italy. We are proud to present to you this faithful replica of a Cinquedea, based on the original artefact held in the Royal Armouries Collection (object number IX.148). The term "Cinquedea" translates to "five fingers," referring to the impressive width of the blade at the guard. While many surviving examples are ornate civilian status symbols, this particular piece represents a more utilitarian, workmanlike weapon. It is the sort of sidearm you might have seen carried by an infantryman or a crossbowman in the streets of Verona or Venice around 1520. If you are looking for a piece of history that combines flamboyant Italian style with deadly practicality, this is it. Further product information ...
Italian Cinquedea Short Sword – The Renaissance Broadblade
Design and Craftsmanship
This replica faithfully copies the complex geometry of the original. The blade, forged from 1075 high carbon steel, features a distinct transition from three fullers down to two. This, combined with a significant distal taper (thinning towards the tip), makes the sword remarkably light and fast in the hand despite its size.
The hilt construction is historically accurate and robust. The arched guard consists of various components welded together, just like the original. The blade's tang extends through the guard and is riveted directly to it, ensuring exceptional durability. The grip features hardwood scales secured with decorative brass filigree inlaid rivets. The accompanying scabbard is wood-cored, leather-wrapped, and finished with an ornate brass chape.
History and Usage
The Cinquedea was unique to Northern Italy during the High Renaissance. It was designed as a heavy civilian sidearm for self-defence in narrow alleyways and tight spaces. Its broad blade could deliver powerful cuts and the acute point was devastating in the thrust. The flat surface was also ideal for parrying incoming attacks.
Safety and Usage Note: While crafted from high-quality carbon steel, this sword is supplied with an unsharpened edge (approx. 1mm thick) for safety. It is primarily intended as a collector's item and for decorative use. It is excellent for historical display, costume completion, or non-contact drills. We advise against using it for full-contact heavy sparring, as this may damage the historical finish or the brass fittings.
Care Instructions
To keep your Cinquedea in museum-quality condition:
- Prevent Rust: High carbon steel is susceptible to rust. Wipe the blade clean and apply a light coat of oil (such as mineral oil or gun oil) after handling.
- Storage: Do not store the sword in its leather scabbard for long periods, as leather traps moisture which can corrode the steel.
- Maintenance: Treat the leather scabbard and wooden grip with appropriate wax or polish occasionally to prevent drying and cracking.
We suggest pairing this sword with a period-appropriate belt to carry it horizontally across the small of the back, as was the fashion of the time.
Specifications
| Overall Length | approx. 80.5 cm (31 11/16") |
| Blade Length | approx. 65.7 cm (25 7/8") |
| Blade Width at Ricasso | approx. 8.5 cm (3 11/32") |
| Distal Taper | approx. 2.4 mm (3/32") |
| Weight | approx. 1 kg (2 lbs 3 oz) |
| Blade Material | 1075 High Carbon Steel |
| Edge | Double-edged, unsharpened |
| Balance Point (POB) | approx. 11.7 cm (4 5/8") from guard |
This is an Official Royal Armouries Licensed Product, manufactured by Windlass Steelcrafts. Includes a certificate of authenticity.
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