Cold Steel Cavalier Rapier,Black

I have some experience with saber and spadroon but this is my first rapier. Yes, I understand that it is more of a transitional rapier than a traditional one... but it is a fine weapon regardless.I cannot speak as to how it compares to other rapiers but it IS as described, meaning it's length, weight, and balance point. I was honestly surprised at it's well balanced build and the point is nimble as a result. It appears well crafted and there were no loose fitting pieces. The wire wrapped handle is sound and didn't have any hot spots poking into flesh. All around, I am very impressed with the good quality for such an affordable price point.Some people complain about the size of the finger rings but they always state that it is because they cannot fit their fencing gloves covered finger into them. Well... This is not a practice weapon and not designed to accommodate bulky fencing glove. It is a combat ready weapon with a stiff enough blade that it can pierce easily. The rings are more than adequate size for either bare fingers or leather gauntlets such as were traditionally used.If you want a sparring sword then buy an epee, this is a weapon and not a toy.

I bought this for a friend, who grew up being into swashbuckling movies like The Three Musketeers and Zorro. The edges are not razor sharp but the tip is crazy sharp. The rapier fits well in the hand, feels balanced, no rough edges. There are large rings inside the cup hilt above the cross guard that you can place your index finger into for a fencer style grip.We practiced thrusting the blade through refilled plastic water bottles, and the point glides through with ease. It feels like a well built, serious weapon, not just a wall hanger.

Smaller than I thought it would be but is such an amazing item and beautiful!

Great quality and arrived quickly. Sharp as well. Good Job Cold Steel!

It's built very solidly, and very attractive! Feels a bit heavy...., but ,maybe just for me...Anyway , i am impressed !!!

Mine came not sharp on the blade section at all. Even cold steel website says it comes sharpened. I know its a rapier but it is cold steel and was supposed to come sharpened. Would not cut paper. I could run my hand all up and down it without fear of being cut in the slightest. The point was needle sharp however. The marbled finish on the guard was incomplete in several spots at the blades base and looked unfinished. Also there was a small glitch in the wire wrap that caused one coil near the base around the pinky finger grip area to protrude further then all the rest. These 3 things caused me to send it back and 3 star it. If not for those things it would be 5 stars all the way. A really fantastic rapier if you get a flawless one I'm certain.

It came new in original Cold Steel packaging, covered in a light coat of oil. It is well-made sharp as it needs to be.The leather sheath is a little snug at first, but loosens up perfectly. It is a beautiful sword made by a fantastic company.

Distal taper is a little less than I was expecting, but the balance is still perfect for a rapier.