The Christus Imperat Rapier

Circa 1600 Elizabethan Rapier

This style of Rapier is very elaborate in design and would have likely been used sometime between 1580-1620 during or shortly after the Elizabethan period. A rapier of this identical form and proportions is currently housed in The Royal Armouries, formerly known as the Tower of London. The dimensions of the sword fall within Elizabethan law where it had been outlawed by Queen Elizabeth herself to carry a rapier with a blade length over 40.5 inches. The blade has is etched on both sides of the ricasso with the Latin phrase CHRISTUS IMPERAT which translates to "Christ Commands".

How it is Made

The flamboyantly formed hilt is both beautiful, functional and a testament to the sword makers ability at the Windlass Steelcrafts forge.. Its' forward steel plates are pierced creating lavish birds amongest foliage. The “S” guard quillions and knuckle guard are slender for both defending the hand and having an upward loop to catch an opponent’s blade. The heavy pommel pulls the weight back into the wielders hand allows for a more balanced feel and tip control for fighting. The long slender blade is hand forged and expertly tempered to the perfect flex so it can absorb the shock of a powerful thrust without breaking. This rapier comes with a scabbard and can be used for historical fencing or WMA, HEMA.

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