Shortswords

Shortswords are a broad category of one-handed bladed weapons whose blades are shorter than those of typical longswords. They span a range of historical forms from late medieval to early modern Europe and beyond. Blade lengths commonly lie in the range of roughly 40 to 70 centimeters, with overall weapon lengths around 60 to 100 centimeters and weights typically between 0.8 and 1.5 kilograms. The defining trait is maneuverability in close combat while delivering both cutting and thrusting strikes.

Designs vary. Some shortswords have straight, double-edged blades suited to cutting and stabbing, while others are single-edged, functioning as backswords optimized for slashing. Hilt arrangements range from simple crossguards with wooden grips to more elaborate guards; pommel shapes influence balance and handling. While most are intended for one-handed use, some form of two-handed leverage.

Historically, shortswords emerged in Europe as shorter alternatives to the longsword and were used by infantry, officers, and duelists. In the Renaissance and early modern period the line between shortsword and smallsword blurred as new fighting styles developed and fencing manuals spread. The term also covers various regional one-handed swords that served on the battlefield, in urban defense, or in dueling contexts.

In modern usage, the term is commonly applied by museums, collectors, and martial arts practitioners to describe shorter, one-handed swords. It remains a useful umbrella term for a range of historical blades and informs studies in historical European martial arts and historical weapon research.