16th Century Italian Cinquedea Short Sword

The cinquedea was a characteristic type of Italian broad-bladed short sword or large dagger, with this example in the Royal Armouries having a longer blade, dating to around 1500-1530. While cinquedeas were often carried as civilian sidearms, and some examples were highly decorated, this example could equally have been carried by a member of the gentry or as a military sidearm - more commonly by an infantryman or gunner. The impressively broad blade of 26 inches has a complex transition from three down to two fullers, with a thin and distally tapered cross-section which make this a very light and fast weapon for its size. Our replica has faithfully copied all aspects of the form and statistics, the most interesting of which is the unique hilt construction. The ingenious and iconic guard design is fabricated of various components welded together, as in the original. The heel of the blade actually extends completely through the guard and is riveted to it. The blade heel and rivet heads are then ground flush with the guard and the whole assembly is polished. This method provides exceptional strength and durability. The blade also has a full profile tang, with hardwood grip scales and decorative brass filigree inlaid rivets.