The Ricasso - Parts of the European Sword

The ricasso is at the base of the blade where it meets the guard. This area is often un-sharpened and as thick as the thickest portion of the blade or the tang. The ricasso is used on the rapier for certain techniques where the wielder may wrap their pointer finger over the basket and around the ricasso for increased control. Some medieval swords would have a large enough ricasso where you could grip it with your entire hand for increased leverage for some maneuvers. This section is not blunt on all swords; many are sharpened all the way to the guard however, “Ricasso” is still correct for referring to this section of blade next to the guard.

Ricasso Photos

These are some photo's of several different Ricasso found on the European swords that we offer.

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