Short Sword: Types, History, and Modern Uses
Key Highlights:
- Short swords range between 18–30 inches, balancing speed and power.
- Used in ancient warfare, now prized in martial arts and collections.
- FWOSI’s hand-forged blades reflect true craftsmanship and authenticity.
-
Perfect for reenactments, decorative displays, and serious collectors.
- Combines historical design with modern durability and artistry.
A short sword is a compact, double-edged blade ranging from 12 to 30 inches (30–76 cm) in length. Designed for agility and control, it served warriors who needed speed over reach - balancing power and precision for close combat and tactical versatility.
In this guide, you’ll discover the origins of short swords, how they evolved across cultures, their design traits, and the modern hand-forged replicas by FWOSI that preserve their historic essence.
What Is a Short Sword?
A short sword bridges the gap between a dagger and a longsword - compact enough for agility, yet long enough to deliver powerful strikes. Historically, it was the preferred weapon for close-quarters combat, prized for speed, balance, and ease of use.
In general, the average short sword length ranges between 12 and 30 inches (30–76 cm). This made it ideal for tight formations and self-defense, where longer weapons were impractical.
Is 85 cm in Total Length Considered a Short Sword?
At 85 cm (33 inches) in total length, a blade sits on the upper edge of short sword classification, often overlapping with the smallest longswords. Functionally, however, it’s still used and balanced like a short sword.
In ancient and medieval warfare, short swords were trusted sidearms - quick to draw, easy to maneuver, and suitable for both military skirmishes and personal protection.
A Brief History of Short Swords
The short sword has evolved through centuries of warfare, craftsmanship, and symbolism - from the disciplined ranks of Roman legions to the hands of modern collectors.
Early Roots - The Gladius and Xiphos
The origins trace back to ancient civilizations such as Rome and Greece. The Roman gladius, with its balanced, double-edged blade, was the legionary’s standard weapon - efficient for thrusting in tight battle formations. The Greek xiphos, slightly longer and more tapered, offered both slashing and thrusting capability in phalanx warfare.
Medieval and Renaissance Use
As armor and combat styles evolved, short swords became essential for knights, soldiers, and travelers. They served as backup weapons when lances or larger blades were impractical. Their size made them versatile, useful for both defense and daily survival.
Symbolism and Decorative Significance
By the Renaissance, short swords began taking on ceremonial or decorative roles, representing honor, rank, or craftsmanship. Ornate hilts and engraved blades turned functional weapons into symbols of prestige.
Modern Interpretations
Today, short swords are appreciated for their historical and aesthetic value. Collectors and martial artists prize them for reenactments, training, or display, where the legacy of ancient gladius-like blades still endures.
Also read: Different Types of Swords
5 Types of Short Swords (FWOSI Picks)
Each short sword design represents a different civilization’s ingenuity and FWOSI’s handcrafted recreations bring that legacy to life through authentic forging, balance, and detail.
1. The Legionary Gladius Short Sword — The Blade of an Empire
A faithful homage to Rome’s most iconic weapon, the Gladius features a double-edged blade perfect for thrusting and precision strikes. Known as the weapon that built an empire, this short sword excels in close-range efficiency and historical accuracy.
👉 Ideal for collectors and enthusiasts of classical military craftsmanship.
2. Spartan Broadsword (Lakonia Sword)
The Lakonia short sword, favored by Spartan warriors, was built for agility and lethality. With its straight, compact blade and minimalist design, this broadsword exemplifies balance and control, hallmarks of Greek warfare discipline.
👉 A stunning display piece echoing ancient valor.
3. Kopis Truck Leaf Spring Sword
This curved, forward-weighted sword draws inspiration from the Greek kopis and early scimitar blades. Its distinct shape allows for powerful chopping and slashing, making it as functional as it is beautiful.
👉 A perfect fusion of ancient form and modern forging precision.
4. Xiphos Viking Sword
Blending Viking craftsmanship with Greek-inspired blade geometry, this hybrid short sword delivers tactical utility and visual impact. The full-tang build ensures strength, while the shorter length enhances maneuverability — ideal for modern survivalists or collectors.
👉 A cross-cultural tribute to historic design evolution.
5. Viking Gladius-Style Sword
Compact yet commanding, this hand-forged short sword merges Viking artistry with Roman influence. The leather sheath adds a rustic finish, while its balanced weight and clean edge make it a standout collectible.
👉 An excellent choice for decorative display or reenactment.
Short Sword Design & Length Explained
A short sword usually measures 18–30 inches in blade length about 70–85 cm overall and is built for speed, agility, and control. Balanced between a dagger and a longsword, it delivers close-range precision without sacrificing reach.
Standard Short Sword Length
Most historians and collectors define a short sword by its blade length of roughly 18–30 inches (45–76 cm) and an overall length that rarely exceeds 85 cm.
This size allows a fighter to maneuver in tight spaces ideal for infantry formations or modern martial-arts reenactments.
Core Design Traits
A true short sword blends balance, symmetry, and versatility:
- Double-edged blade for both thrusting and slashing.
- Straight or subtly tapered profile to enhance reach and penetration.
- Weighted pommel that centers the sword’s balance near the guard for rapid directional changes.
- Compact grip for one-handed control perfect for soldiers who paired it with a shield.
These traits make shorter swords extremely responsive compared with larger two-handed weapons such as a broadsword or scimitar sword, which favor reach over agility.
Read more: How Long is Guts Sword?
Short Sword vs. Dagger vs. Longsword
|
Feature |
Dagger |
Short Sword |
Longsword |
|
Length |
Under 12 in (30 cm) |
18–30 in (45–76 cm) |
35–45 in (90–115 cm) |
|
Grip |
One-hand |
One-hand |
Two-hand / hand-and-a-half |
|
Purpose |
Concealed defense |
Close-quarters combat |
Battlefield reach & power |
|
Speed |
Fastest |
Balanced |
Slower, heavy strikes |
|
Modern Role |
Utility / knife art |
Martial arts & collectibles |
Historical reenactments |
More on: Broadsword vs. Longsword
Modern Uses of Short Swords
1. Martial Arts & Historical Reenactments
Short swords remain a favorite in HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts), Kali, and Japanese kenjutsu-inspired systems where precision footwork and blade control are essential.
Reenactors also rely on them for Roman legionary or medieval soldier portrayals, since their lighter weight ensures safe choreography without losing realism.
2. Decorative & Ceremonial Collections
For collectors, decorative swords embody artistry as much as history. Hand-forged pieces often feature etched blades, engraved guards, or symbolic hilts representing ancient empires or mythic heroes.
Ceremonial short swords are used by military units, fraternal orders, and traditional ceremonies as marks of honor or heritage.
3. Display Pieces & Collector Gifts
Many enthusiasts buy short swords for sale as centerpiece items in homes, studios, or offices. High-finish blades such as FWOSI’s Gladius or Xiphos variants make impressive conversation pieces — blending authenticity with decorative value.
4. Survival, Bushcraft & Practical Training
Compact yet powerful, short swords also attract outdoor enthusiasts. Their manageable length and strong tang make them suitable for light chopping, camp use, and defensive training scenarios.
See also: Different Parts of a Sword
Where to Buy Authentic Short Swords?
If you’re wondering where to buy short swords, FWOSI offers authentic, hand-forged blades crafted by skilled artisans. Each piece combines historical design with modern durability, perfect for collectors, martial artists, and anyone seeking a genuine short sword for sale.
FWOSI’s Craftsmanship & Heritage
Every FWOSI short sword is individually hand-forged, not mass-produced. Using carbon-steel blades, full-tang construction, and traditional forging methods, FWOSI ensures each sword carries both functional balance and artistic detail.
Their designs draw inspiration from legendary weapons like the Roman Gladius and Spartan Broadsword, honoring centuries of craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The short sword blends agility, strength, and heritage, a timeless weapon that connects history with craftsmanship. FWOSI’s hand-forged short swords stand out for their authenticity, making them perfect for collectors, martial artists, and enthusiasts who value real artistry.
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FAQs on Short Swords
Is a short sword a dagger?
No. A short sword is longer than a dagger, usually 18–30 inches, designed for combat reach and balance. Daggers are smaller and made primarily for stabbing or close defense.
Is a smallsword a good weapon?
Yes. The smallsword, a later European evolution of the short sword, was prized for its speed and precision—ideal for dueling and formal defense in the 17th–18th centuries.
Is it legal to own a sword?
In most regions, owning decorative or collectible swords is legal as long as they’re used responsibly and not carried in public. Always check local weapon laws before purchase.
What’s better, a longsword or a shortsword?
It depends on purpose. Longswords offer reach and power; short swords excel in speed and close combat. Collectors often prefer short swords for balance and versatility.
How long is a typical short sword?
A typical short sword measures 18–30 inches in blade length and about 70–85 cm overall, depending on design and style.
Are short swords used in modern combat or reenactments?
Yes. They’re popular in HEMA training, stage combat, and historical reenactments. Enthusiasts use them for skill practice, ceremonial display, and martial-arts exhibitions.