Western swords have been the stuff of legends for as long as there has been a western world. The usual weapon that we picture is the English long-sword. Around 4 feet in length, made of steel, and perfectly straight, it was used throughout the middle ages by almost every European country with various levels of success. There is some record of the highly sophisticated techniques developed for the use of this weapon and in the hands of a master it could surpass most weapons of it's day.

There was also the short-sword, a holdover from the Roman era and lethal in close quarters. And the broadsword, used by knights on horse back and anywhere up to 6 feet long. This weapon required a great deal of strength to use and was very unwieldy for the average man. Later development lead to the claymore, a broader short-sword and a favorite in Scotland.

Finally we have the Rapier. This was one of the greatest swords of all time. A little shorter than the long-sword and much thinner, it required skill and dexterity but allowed much more agility to it's user than anything created in the western world. It usually was slightly curved and well decorated as it was a favorite of gentlemen.

A Long-sword

A Roman Short Sword

A Rapier