Renaissance Noble Deschaux Rapier with Bone Grip
1xAre you searching, skilled fencer and collector, for a sidearm that seamlessly merges the deadly elegance of the Late Renaissance with historical craftsmanship? The Deschaux Rapier will enchant you with its slender 1080 high carbon steel blade and a three-ringed swept hilt offering formidable hand protection. The hilt is anchored by a genuine natural bone grip wrapped in twisted wire for a remarkably secure hold. Complete with a leather scabbard featuring steel mountings, we recommend this classical rapier for historical reenactment, forms drill, or as a centerpiece in your private armory. Further product information ...
Renaissance Noble Deschaux Rapier with Bone Grip and Swept Hilt
History, Typology, and Battlefield Usage
The historical design of this rapier dates back to circa 1590, bridging the Late Renaissance and Early Baroque eras. During this period, European gentleman sidearms evolved from heavy medieval cutting swords into long, agile, thrust-oriented rapiers. Worn by nobles and officers as a symbol of status and refined taste, the rapier served as an indispensable civilian sidearm and lethal dueling weapon.
Typologically, this piece features a classical three-ringed swept hilt engineered for swift thrusts, parries, and counter-attacks. The grip is carved from genuine natural bone; as bone is an organic material, colors naturally range from off-white to warm tan tones, giving each individual rapier unique character. The twisted wire wrapping over the bone provides optimal traction in hand during drills.
Significance of the Name Deschaux
This rapier carries its honorary name Deschaux in tribute to celebrated French fencing lineages and masters who refined dueling arts at the French royal court in the late 16th century. Naming this weapon honours the French school of fence, which emphasized geometric precision, speed of the pass, and fluid grace.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Metric Value | Imperial Value |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | approx. 1162 mm / 116.2 cm | approx. 45.75 in |
| Blade Length to Basket | approx. 941 mm / 94.1 cm | approx. 37.05 in |
| Guard Width (Quillon Span) | approx. 252 mm / 25.2 cm | approx. 9.92 in |
| Basket Dimensions | length approx. 190 mm, depth approx. 135 mm | length approx. 7.48 in, depth approx. 5.31 in |
| Threaded Pommel Dimensions | length approx. 57 mm, diameter approx. 32.3 mm | length approx. 2.24 in, diameter approx. 1.27 in |
| Blade Material | Tempered 1080 High Carbon Steel | Tempered 1080 High Carbon Steel |
| Steel Hardness | 48–52 HRC | 48–52 HRC |
| Grip Material | Natural bone with wire wrapping | Natural bone with wire wrapping |
| Point of Balance (POB) | approx. 100 mm / 10.0 cm from basket | approx. 3.94 in from basket |
| Edge Thickness | approx. 1.0 mm (blunt edge) | approx. 0.04 in (blunt edge) |
| Rapier Weight | approx. 1196 g | approx. 2.64 lbs |
| Included Accessories | Leather scabbard with steel throat and chape | Leather scabbard with steel throat and chape |
| Intended Purpose | Collecting, display, forms drill, costume wear | Collecting, display, forms drill, costume wear |
Care and Safety Instructions
The 1080 high carbon steel blade is not stainless. After handling or practice, wipe all metal components clean with a dry cloth and apply a thin coating of protective mineral or gun oil (such as Ballistol). Never store the rapier inside a damp scabbard. Clean the natural bone grip gently with a soft dry cloth only.
SAFETY WARNING: Although the edge is blunt (approx. 1.0 mm / 0.04 in), this rapier features an acute thrusting point. For safety reasons, it is a decorative and drill item NOT intended for full-contact HEMA sparring, high-impact fencing, or theatrical swordplay! The rigidity of the blade could cause injury during thrusts. Use strictly for solo forms practice, costume wear, and display at your own risk.
Recommended Accessories
To complete a late 16th-century gentleman impression, we recommend pairing this rapier with a matching main gauche parrying dagger, a period leather rapier baldric or frog, a velvet doublet, and a wooden sword display stand for showcasing it in your home.
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