Best SWORD for modern-day self defence?
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- Опубліковано 28 вер 2024
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What sword would be best suited for modern day self defence?
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Having a free hand when using a sword for self defense is extremely important. You can utilize a shield or secondary weapon such as pepper spray. My own personal preference for a secondary weapon is a .357 magnum.
go full medieval mode with a gunsword or a gun dagger... a gungger? XD
@@LucasTheOnion full Final Fantasy VIII then xd
LOL That's a great off-hand weapon!✌😸
Wait... 🤔
Bruh this guy's living in modern day Bloodborne yharnam
The _gladius,_ if you use it in accordance with my strategy-which is walk around in full Roman legionary garb and armor, so everyone think you have the full might of the Roman army backing you, and no ruffian will be willing to f- with you. Well, doesn't work so well now, but it used to work like a charm back in the day.
The best weapon is one you dont need to use :D long live the Empire
Ah it's so nice to see fellow immortals are well. As much as I love the Gladius I believe that Filipino swordsmanship is what we are looking for in this case.
Split the difference and get a gladius machete.
XD
I also bet the gladius. Easy to use, functional in close quarters and tight spaces, versatile, and relatively light weight.
Ah yes, the classic Bolo-Machete family of swords. We widely use them here in the Philippines as tool for foraging, travelling, and defences, and my ancestors used it for their rebellion and quelling unrests. Its a super versatile weapon AND a tool, which most Fililpino Household has one, even the rich.
The bolo is synonymous with the fighting Philipine spirit.
I remembered using an old bolo for digging
I bought one to be cool when I was a teenager. As an adult, it’s my go-to tool for brush clearing and tree trimming.
We have it here in our house
Edit: our teacher that supervise us onces in one of my camping for boys scouts brougth one and its pretty useful ( really really useful )
Imagine not wanting to own a machete
The best sword is a gun. It technically uses explosive powder to send a really dull micro sword at the speed of sound.
this might actually be the best comment on anything ever
This is a great take
There's even models that fit in your pocket and have more range than even the longest two handed sword lol
Hey, this guy gets it.
That's more like a arrowhead/smooth mace xD
As someone who spent a great deal of his adult life in armed conflict there's one thing I would like to point out. Not everyone will be capable, nor willing, (Even to defend themselves believe it or not) to strike someone with a large bladed weapon. Despite believing they could. The amount of visceral feedback that results from that is enough to give most people pause for good reason. That's why most self-defense weapons (In the modern day anyhow) are either blunt weapons (That generally render someone unconscious, or do minimal 'visual' damage), SMALL bladed weapons or weapons that can be used from a distance. It's far more impersonal. Spilling someones intestines on the floor is not something most people are equipped to handle and those that are forced to never want to again. Chopping someone's arm off, or burying a 22" blade in someones neck is a pretty intense way to step into the 'self-defense' forum.
I'm not at all saying you shouldn't if you find yourself in that situation, or that it can't be done because you should protect yourself by whatever means necessary. I'm simply saying that a lot of people (In the modern day, especially in 1st world countries who have never been exposed to any type of real violence) would have difficulty using a large bladed weapon in a confrontation unless they had absolutely no other option and the threat to their life was imminent. Even in that context I'm not sure how many would actually bring themselves to do it. After all, a half of a second hesitation is usually the difference between life and death by itself.
I think this kind of thing gets glossed over a lot in discussions about self-defense and weapons in general and it should be at the very least discussed. There are two types of responses in high-stress situations. Fight. Or Flight. People like to think they're prepared for terrible, mind-bending scenarios and the fact of the matter is you don't know what kind of person you are until that type of situation occurs. A person who is more prone to flight (As opposed to fight) is going to have a considerably difficult time slashing or stabbing someone with a large blade. I guess my point is that the weapon type itself could have a considerable impact on the individuals ability to make the judgement call to actually use it and should be part of the equation.
Hm. Use a sword that hasn't been sharpened, at least not well enough to spill anyone's guts? Might be easier to hit if you know you will not see blood, or not THAT much of it (okay, getting hit on the head can spill a lot, but anyway), but a bit longer blunt sword might still break bones, and definitely should be able to cause rather painful soft tissue damage if used with sufficient force (I got permanent soft tissue damage on my leg from slipping and falling on top of a very narrow and high doorstep a couple of decades ago). Of course, it would way less effective, but better than nothing?
And if the fact that it is pretty blunt is not obvious at a glance it might scare at least some people away. If there are people here from the Society for Creative Anachronism they may have heard the old story of an SCA lady who was threatened in some city late in the evening while on her way home from either an event or some sort of practice. She was wearing a cape and carrying a long sword under it - presumably blunt - but they left when she pulled the cape aside and they saw the sword. Okay, I'm not sure if that is a true story or not, but it was always told as if true. I think there is a filk about it (it's been a few decades since I was active). If it's true I suppose one alternative is that they thought she was the dangerous type of crazy.
i would like to add that to my knowledge self defense is usually limited to the "minimal means to incapacitate" in most civilised countries. meaning that disemboweling someone because you "feel threatened" by someone is a bit over the top... defending yourself with a deadly weapon against an opponent with a club or a knife should be the last option.
so carrying a weapon that can be used better on the non lethal end (a cut that can fully incapacitate someone will likely have them bleed out if not treated) is preferable because you are less likely to be blamed of using unnecessary force if you use the weapon that is inherently less lethal
@@TheScarvig Agreed. Justin, Pohjanakka, you all bring up very real points. I honestly agree with all of you and read your replies thoroughly, wanted to comment and hoped someone would read what I had to say and landed here lol sorry.
I'm a forty year old woman with a chronic illness and in America, if you have a disability you're not allowed to own a firearm. Fortunately (somewhat) I'm part of what's now called HEMA, I'm old enough that it's actually a point of pride that folk like me helped make European "martial arts" become a thing, part of an ongoing campaign I took part in since before I graduated in 2000. Back then, we had nothing, now we have resources and science and even SCHOOLS!!! And I'm not part of it anymore due to my broken body lol!!!!!!! ........ ...... .. .
Anyway, now that I'm older (and I'm still a student of all martial arts, including Eastern) and aware of laws and legal .... things... I do genuinely recommend Professor Chad's advocacy of the "stick." There's a reason police still use it the world over, and if you're competent enough regarding your own body, training, and limitations you can incorporate ALL of your sword/longsword techniques into a good meter or 50 inch stick.
*sighs, monotone* "Branch out" in your training... LOL no seriously, seriously. I've taken to training with a rough "bokken" length stave, and intend to make my own oak bokken soon to my own specs and grip, strike points, etc. , training to use the majority of high and tail-guard strikes in hallways, close quarters, and you have the advantage of using it like a jo stave and even applying "walking stick" and akido techniques. The greatest (and it *SUCKS* that I have to say this at all) benefit is that right now " a stick" isn't considered a lethal weapon. Like thumbs, foreheads, and trachea strikes. I mean nugs, kuh nives, and hurtful feelings.
Best wishes you guys, let me know what you think? Take care and be well :)
@@wren7195 I do not want to pry or be rude, but I do not want people in the USA left with the opinion that having a disability automatically means you cannot own a firearm. In fact, there is no reason a disability resulting from physical injury would prevent you from owning a firearm, outside of any individual draconian state laws. The types of disabilities that would prevent one from owning a weapon would be mental illnesses, or severe developmental delays, that could result in a court ruling that a person is mentally incompetent, unable to care for themselves, or result in an involuntary commitment in a psychiatric facility.
I feel like most people wouldn't realize how much cutting and stabbing can do to someone and how bad it is until after they do it. If my life is truly in danger and see a sword or knife, I'm gonna swing or stab and worry about the consequences of that violence after im safe.
If Shad was a medieval sword salesman. He would have sold me a bunch already.
He starts with one, convinces you to buy it, then shows you the one that beats that one specifically.
@@shadow105720 and then shows you the one that can beat the one that you bought to beat the one you bought. And the cycle continues.
Lol
😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅😅
...Hopefully a humble tradesman, A salesman will convince you to buy snake oil.
the gladius did made a comeback in the early renaissance as the Venetian cinquedea and also in the modern day in the form of the tooth pick machete.
Those are really so different from the gladius that you could call any short sword a gladius by that reasoning.
Now, if you wanted to say the qama is a gladius, then you'd be right. They're nearly identical.
It was also the inspiration for the Nazi military dagger
Thanks, Shad. I will keep it in my miind, bro, during the post apocalyptic struggle for survival.
As he was going through the requirements/parameters I kept going straight to "Cinquedea."
@@Bacteriophagebs
Check out the four main types of the gladius that were used. They each have different blade profiles and lengths.
Also small point, of which I'm sure you're probably already aware, is that while thrusts are incredibly deadly, they often have less "stopping power" than cuts. That is to say, a thrust may be lethal, but the target may be able to fight for several seconds or even minutes before they fall down and die. On the other hand, whilst a cut may not be lethal, a severed tendon or limb can be instantly incapacitating. On the other other hand, a point is very useful for keeping an enemy at bay...
I always wonder why maces are rarely considered
@@Ilethsamael Possibly because of their limited versatility.
A mace is a great weapon when you can get a good swing in, but what are you gonna do if you only got the room for a thrust?
Besides, a mace can be quite heavy to carry.
@@darth_dan8886 while I agree with you in general Mace's do not need to be extremely top heavy to do damage, are way shorter than swords and are very lenient in how to swing them. I think they are exceptional in anything higher than 1vs1.
@@Ilethsamael Additional point! I am sorry for the tardiness.
A mace with a spike at the tip, although hard to find in some cases, will let you effectively thrust depending on the weight and dimensions of the mace.
Lmao. By what logic is a slash wound deadlier than a stab wound? A two inch hole lets out a lot more of that red stuff that a cut.
Source: I've touched grass before.
Here's the thing though - no one in their right mind would initiate a fight if you have a Greatsword on your back, even if you can't draw it... Plus its a huge confidence booster for the wearer 🙂
I imagine that you could get picked on because some thug thinks that you are clowning around and doesn't recognize a big sword as a real weapon thanks to modern standards.
Also it would make you irresistible to the opposite sex, because of the implication
Work out and wear two. >->
Funny thing is, I made this exact point in my D&D game last night. We were discussing which party member should be bait for the bandits. The bard suggested the paladin, because of course a group of rag-tag bandits will jump to attack a large man in full plate armor with a greatsword.
And it’ll make you completely unarmed against anyone not in his right mind. So you’re dead. Good job! 😃
depends on what's culturally acceptable in the area. In the modern context, your ideal self-defense weapons that aren't guns, are going to be tools, there are some double-edge blades that'd qualify as tools, though they aren't common. The other factor to consider, the more urban you are, the smaller the easy to carry and acceptable to have blades get, all the way down to pocketknives, in which case you want one with a belt or pocket clip, so you can draw it quickly,
Yeah the little raptor claw (krambit?) knives seem popular among the beardy prepper types.
Two of them rush the gap and throw the first knife from 5-8 feet away
I live in a country where all weapons are not allowed (outside the stand, hunting or shooting range), and tools only if there is a valid cause, such as to and from the workplace. What is left is a handbag with a large mobile phone in it or a keychain on a string, and a umbrella.
I live in an Australian city. Weapons are heavily regulated and lots of random searches happen in some areas.
Most security and police will look at peoples pockets to make sure there is nothing with a pocket clip in there.
My Concealed carry for the past 6ish years has been a Kabar Combat Kukri with a custom kydex sheath and a Schrade dagger with a custom kydex sheath which are both on a thin belt worn underneath my clothes.
I live in California and I can technically walk around with a sword or large fixed blade knife. But, that is if I feel like having the cops called on me and worrying about getting shot because of it. So, a big pocket knife is my safe zone.
As silly as it sounds, I like my combat shovel. I keep the edges very sharp and it handles like a double bladed hand axe which is easy to throw. Also works well as a hatchet, a canoe oar, and also as a shovel.
shovels were used in WWI trench warfare
I agree about the shovel. I've one that due to the way it was made has four edges and works well for chopping right through small tree limbs.
@@Manco65 Coincidentally, mine also has four edges and cutting small limbs is what I use mine for the majority of the time.
Not silly at all. COLD STEEL sells a replica of the Soviet Spetznatz(?) shovel. Extremely tough, well balanced, makes one helluva weapon.
@@ridermak4111 Yep, that’s exactly what I have.
Upon further review, I feel I should add that I have the shorter of the two Cold Steel shovels. I don’t think I would like the longer one very much, it seems too unwieldy to me.
I didn't even think twice when the video asked the question of, what is the best self defense sword, i immediate said gladius. My thoughts were size, double edge, good thrust. Size is important because in modern day we're typically in buildings, you want something you can swing in hallways and rooms with shorter ceilings.
Same. I immediately knew. I’d been looking at buying a new sword and Gladius was the type I decided on. I own a katana but from the time I spent with it. I learned it was beautiful but not super practical. Atleast not at the length I own.
agreed
@@brucewayne6582Agreed
Same. Was the very first thing I thought of.
Thing is, the United cutlery stuff this chap is talking about, isn't meant to be very good is it? As far as I've heard..
At the start, I really thought Shad was going to pick the cane sword as the best. Later when he asked which sword combined his specified qualities I thought gladius. Disappointed I didn't learn of a new sword, but pleased I guessed right.
Yup, pretty much went the same way. Cane Sword then Gladius, though I think the Cane Sword is far better simply because you have something in your off hand (the scabbard) that can be used to defend yourself and keep distance.
was thinking the same thing dude
yep though you'd look like a rare animal for using a decrorated cane sword in such modern days without having any visible disabilities its still better disguised than carrying machete around the city like a maniac XD
Yeah, I was waiting on Shad to pop up the nanotech, collapsible sword.
@@wizardtim8573 Cane Sword is illegal to carry in most states and could land you a misdemeanor or felony.
In Pennsylvania where I live, you can legally carry any knife that has a "common lawful purpose". There was a case where someone took an 8 inch butcher's knife out of their house and went over to threaten someone else, and it was ruled that since butcher's knives have a very common purpose, he could not be charged for carrying an offensive weapon. I assume a machete would fall under that ruling, while a gladius would not.
Yeah I’m Canada you can carry any sized knife you want as long as you don’t conceal it and it’s a fixed blades knife. ( and don’t take it out and wave it around for no reason like an idiot ) and all concealed knives are illegal regardless of size and so are and assisted opening or gravity opening knives are illegal.... soo may as well just wear a 5.25 Kbar on ur belt much better tool in every way.
But when I go into the woods hiking i always have an 7 inches kbar on my back pack strap and a 11inch on my belt and the small kbar along the small of ur back on ur belt
The only legal foldable knives you can carry need two hands to open and if you can only open it with two hands
But the cop can open it with one ur getting charged no if’s and or buts
You got to love Pennsylvania
That sounds like a legal loophole rather than legal.
Funny how people assume America is all about weapons but we have some insane regulations and stupid on damn near everything lmao. Not nearly what people misconceive it to be. "Shall not be infringed" seems to be given lots of wiggle room.
One thing with the machete is that it's very readily available for the vast majority of people, so it's popularity is justified. Having said that I'm glad that the gladius got it's chance to shine, I would have gone for that one.
I'm reminded of a story from the Society for Creative Anachronism in which a member was returning from an even and was attacked by muggers, one of which tried to stab her...but she was wearing chainmail under her cloak, which completely negated the attack. She then drew her sword and the muggers bolted.
Interesting how her carrying a sword didn’t prevent the criminals from engaging.
It seems to support my opinion that HEMA type weapons aren’t superior for self defense because of their relative obscurity to criminals. On the her hand, machetes are universally recognized, psychologically more intimidating to criminals and more likely to cause the attacker to disengage.
Oh...SCA is full of stories like these and it happens more than people realize. Rennies definitely have an advantage in these encounters, but for gods sake don't bring a knife to a gun fight. Be really certain.
@@buddymoore1543as an officer in high crime areas, i have actually gotten to witness knife v gun several times. Including in my own self defense moments.
People vastly underestimate knives and overestimate guns. In one case, two hit men were sent to kill a rival gang member. They pulled a gun, forced him into a car (don't ask me why, they usually just shoot you idk what was different here, but they tried to take him alive). Needless to say, inside the car, the victim pulls a knife and fucks them up. Stabbed the gun guy first. He fired a shot, completely missed, jumped out the car and bled out quickly from neck wounds. The second dude did get two shots off, one striking the victim in the belly, doing a lot od damage, but he too was fucked up very badly. Nearly died on scene, later died at the hospital.
Victim ended up with a severe injury, had to essentially have bowl reconstruction done, but lived.
We never got the full story. According to him it was random.
Long story short, in close ranges, think 10 feet or less like public bathrooms, cars, busses, so forth, I'll pick an edged weapon or a revolver.
What fucked those two guys up was they had glocks. If you take a glock out of battery, by grabbing it, it won't fire. The first dude, his gun got grabbed. He got one shot off before it was out of battery, dude apparently knocked it aside and it missed. Then it was knife against unarmed man clinging to a useless weapon. Second man shot the victim as he turned on him, but the victim grabbed his gun two, second shot went off, but missed. Then he got fucked up too.
There are a few other cases. But I found that to be the most interesting.
This definitely happened.
So: a sword and historic body armor are great for self defense, in most scenario's where you would realistically be walking around wearing a sword and historic body armor. I think that story sums up the discussion on swords for modern self defense quite nicely. Anything you're not realistically going to be carrying around at least about 75% of the time when you're outside your house, including all of the riskiest moments (going clubbing at night, visiting a sports match where hooligans might be present) is probably not worth considering for self defense. It's (in my opinion) much better to carry nothing than to spend a lot of time, energy and money to select the perfect weapon and then still carry nothing.
Al old housemate of mine also fended off a mugger, he hit the guy with his skateboard, because that's what he had on him.
This makes me incredibly thankful to live in the US. The idea of facing off against a person with a sword and not having a snub nose would suck, like a lot
@@Goblineng very true, situational awareness is critical. So is Profesioncy
@@Goblineng Actually, the two situations are comparable.
An idiot with a knife can be expected to run you down if they are more fit and mentally prepared than you are (which is likely the case if they are the instigator). Cops with pistols routinely die to knife wielding idiots who charge them from ~10 yards away. Yes, in theory you could outrun a knife, but you have to notice the person, turn around, and only then can you begin accelerating.
An idiot with a pistol has horrible accuracy. It takes a LOT of practice, regularly, to be able to accurately shoot someone ~10 yards away. Additionally, a single shot from a pistol is often less lethal than a single stab with a knife. The latter leaves a much larger wound. Pistols are also very loud (even if "silenced"), and are more likely to get the cops/ambulance called faster. Pistols are also harder to use in a grapple than a knife (one of the reasons cops with pistols routinely die to knives).
Both are scary, but I'd honestly be more scared of the knife. It would depend on the exact range, positioning, fitness, and sobriety of the attacker. Pistols have a higher skill floor (a low skill/intoxicated attacker will miss), while a knife is quite lethal no matter how drunk or unskilled an attacker is. Since most attackers are mentally unstable/low skilled, it stands to reason that the weapon with a low skill floor would be more dangerous.
Against a truly experienced attacker, you'd be dead no matter what.
I think a cross guard is good. If you get into tight measure (grappling even?), you can punch with the cross. Against a thick winter coat, the ability to crack ribs through the insulation is irreplaceable. Ergo, 15th century messer is my pick.
Not only that but it also has intimidation factor what robber would pick a fight with the guy who has a messer?
A guard can be grabbed though- that was his point with not using a one sided blade. Plus cross guard were primarily to defend from other blades which most people today don't carry.
@@donald347 This is true so my pick would be a one handed messer style sword with a slight reverse edge and no guard, well none other than to protect my own hand from slipping onto the blade obviously.
What about a sword size Rosario?
plus a hand guard lets you parry if the other person has a machete
I carry a self defense weapon daily. I also live in the USA, and in a constitutional carry state, so I concealed carry a 9mm pistol. I have never had to use it, and I hope I never have to. I do love bladed weapons though, and I enjoy these videos.
Surprised the historically popular swordcane got no mention, but entertaining!
MY Sensi used to make sword canes that we sold at Ren fairs. I know all about them. Ty.
The Kukri & Tomahawk have always been a favorite of mine, both are tools & a necessity for life in the Bush.
This is the trick. The only medieval weapons you are likely to use in the modern day are the ones that happen to be useful tools -- they are the only ones you'd ever have on you. Swords are dedicated weapons... If you want a dedicated weapon in the modern age you pick up a gun. Like a civilized person.
he doesn't even use it right... making this a biased review.
how is a tomahawk a basic necessary modern tool in a bush? WTF xD
@@WerewolfMaster First of all, he didn't say it was basic or modern. Second I guess you'd have to leave mom's basement to find out.
@@WerewolfMaster how is a tomahawk necessary in the bush? (THE bush is aussie for the woods or the wilderness etc) asking that simply proves you have no idea..
A buddy of mine used to always walk around with a long, thin towel hung around his neck. One day I asked him why, and he showed me. He trained with the thing a lot, and could do really nasty moves with it, disarms, dislocations, chokes, etc. The best thing about it is that he could take it ANYWHERE and no one cared. If you can train with it, it would be a great choice.
That's from Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy.
@@ctrlaltdebug That's what I told him, haha! “A towel, [The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy] says, is about the most massively useful thing an interstellar hitchhiker can have.”
A long thin towel worn around the neck sounds like what most people call a scarf.
@@TheStabwest Different material. You could look at it and tell that it was for wiping sweat off your face, not as a scarf.
I used to train with quarter staffs for fun. The average walking stick isn't too far off from a size good enough for me so I have a walking staff and no one ever questions it. I won't be doing lethal damage unless I get some very lucky shots, but it is very non descript in most areas (especially since I made it colorful like a hiking staff). I just am a person with a stick minding my business. I don't have to use much force at all to make someone regret targeting me.
A towel is definitely another good option. Similarly non descript but can be an extension of grappling. Or you can whip someone right in their eyes. My brother and I used to do that to each other and it's both painful and disorienting.
As a historical combat enthusiast, I tend to practice a lot. About a 15 years ago, I worked overnights at a hotel. One slow night, I decided to do some form work in the lobby and went to my vehicle to get a practice blade. As I was leaned over, a man snuck up on me and demanded my wallet and keys. Out of the corner of my eye, I noticed he had a knife. I happened to have a rapier within reach and turned around to face him. He quickly decided he had other places to be. Had he been carrying a firearm, I know better than to resist. But the force multiplier factor was in my favor that day.
As to practical self-defense, I live in a place where I can carry a firearm, so I do. I also carry a knife and flashlight. When I happen to visit somewhere that's disallowed, I have a large flashlight that could effectively double as a club and I've fashioned a belt holster for it. My state actually has a law against long blades on a person (even with a concealed handgun license), or I would absolutely carry a tactical gladius, or at least a larger knife.
In close combat blades work better than bullets and the intimidation factor of someone confidently pulling out a sword when you aren’t expecting it is not to be underestimated
I find it kinda hilarious that you can carry a gun but not a sword. What is the logic here?
@@jakublulek3261 It's because there is an old law on the books about carrying fixed blades above a certain length. It's largely ignored (or even chefs could get in trouble on smoke breaks), but somebody in one of my fighting groups is a cop and says that it would probably be enforced if you carried an actual sword.
@@JeremyCulbreath interestingly, a guy who told me years ago, that the difference between a sword and a gun is if you draw a sword, the situation tends to deescalate, but if you draw a gun someone is likely to get shot; tried to get a concealed carry license for a sword cane, and the sheriff where he was, ultimately decided no license was needed.
It makes sense; the best sword to use in a time of low sword proliferation would be the kind developed before their use became prolific.
I actually squeaked with happiness when you chose the gladius! I've fenced/sparred with a variety of swords over the years. When I finally discovered the combination of a gladius and small shield though, it was amazing. It's such an intuitive combination, especially as a short person. I've gotten the impression though that people don't think gladii are cool 😂 So I shall shamelessly enjoy your validation!
That being said... when it comes to realistic self defense, my go-to remains a stick. A nice hard walking stick. Because tbh while I love fencing when the opportunity presents, I don't have any desire to end someone's life. My faithful stick is good for pushing people away, whacking at them if need be, and jabbing with the end if things get really dire, but it gives them the chance to survive, you know? I *know* I'm a fighter when it comes to fight/flight/freeze, bc I've been there. But I'm also a big softie and just don't want to end a life if I don't have to.
So gladius? Totally better. But stick? Ye olde stick is what will actually be out with me, what will actually get used ❤
Love your videos, Shad! You're always such a wonderful blend of informative, entertaining, and thought provoking! Thank you for all the hard work you do!
Not only more humane, but much wiser. Killing someone is significant legal trouble in most places, as it should be.
Speaking of sticks, the Filipino martial arts is very much applicable with them, including Kali, which is otherwise known as Arnis and Eskrima.
Well you still don't have to kill them. Just the sight of having a decent sized sword would scare a reasonable perpetrator but if not, you can always aim to disarm or damage them without going for a lethal strike.
While doing earlier investigation for a home defense sword I saw an article on a katana. They had NSFW pics of the damage done to two bad guys.... it was awful with many deep slicing wounds but both of them were still alive afterwards. That's the point of all this, to disarm and disable the enemy quickly and effectively. I'd prefer not to kill to but if it comes to that...
I also like the Gladius because it can also serve as a decent machete type weapon that you could take in a forest to knock down plants, etc., due to it's size and shape
@@jared5322 How about the iconic kukri knife, that’s been famously used by the Nepalese Gurkhas? I heard numerous stories about British soldiers waking up next to their dead teammates after a night in the jungle, and even the reinforcements seeing the corpses of their men missing a limb and even cleanly decapitated, and couldn’t kill the Gurkhas even when they did have bayonets on their rifles. In the end, they decided to have the Gurkhas as allies as they both fought together.
@bastiat A scammer? Isn't this video just for fun? Nobody actually thinks a sword is a good choice for a self defense weapon in the modern day. Pistol, bear mace, stun gun, knife, baton. Pretty much everybody knows those are the practical options for everyday-carry self defense.
I've mentioned your channel on Hard2Hurt a few times. Especially his Shield/buckler videos. Self Defense is a real study and people need to take it seriously.
In my own personal opinion a cutlas or hanger style sword would be good for modern day. It is still a sword and while it doesn't give much of a reach it is longer than most knives. Also these sword have a hand guard that can remain somewhat conspicuous (at some hanger swords). On top of that a saber like weapon is simple to learn. Of course a Gladius is also a great option.
Spadrooooon. ;)
If your knives reach 24in plus then you'd be right but even the longer rennisance long daggers reached roughly 18 to 24 inches but those were for the really long alehouse and main gauche daggers. The Althouse ones were often just short swords in function.
The D guard machete he shows is most likely a coldsteel cutlass machete
@@Slavic_Goblin Go away matt easton !!!! Lol
Cutlass would be my go to "modern self defense sword". It's a medium length one handed sword with good cutting and thrusting potential. It also has the benefit of hand protection which could also be used as knuckle dusters for a less lethal option.
Agreed.
That or the messer.
Gotta say you really pulled the wool over my eyes Shad, based on the logic you layed out I thought we were heading towards a cane sword video in the last act. So because of my disappointment I request a look at the Cane sword! Does it meet enough of your modern self defense criteria and would it still be viable in a modern context or are canes just too out of style to be a good method of concealment? They’re short, concealable, double edged, good for thrusting, light weight and easy to carry. I’d love to hear your take.
I personally vote for a sword cane with a triangular smallsword blade.
People keep saying that thrusting won't stop an enemy, but the only way a slash stops an attacker is by dealing a lethal or maiming blow. Most cuts are going to be superficial, considering the close quarters and surprise scenario you'll likely fins yourself in. You need a lot of room and perfect spacing to deliver an effective cut. Stabs require much less maneuverability and are much more likely to deliver a serious wound.
People who argue against thrust are arguing against guns as self defense weapons. It really is silly.
Plus, with a sword cane you also have a big stick.
People constantly conflate cool and flashy with effective. I don't care about how cool someone thinks my weapon is. If it makes bad guys dead, it's good.
This is actually a good idea for a concealed weapon because (obviously) a person who is potentially robbing or threatening you wouldn’t expect you to have a f$cking sword cane. They’d probably assume you’d had walking issues or something so it would certainly be unexpected when it’s revealed it’s actually your weapon. Based on my logic it seems like a feasible self defense weapon
@@ARFthegodking I think that’s sound, small swords were the pinnacle of dueling weapons for a long time. I think I would still want a double edged blade so you have the option of cutting or slashing because in a modern self defense scenario if the attacker has no gun inevitably he will try to get close, possibly too close for a thrust, and if you’re in a grapple with someone you could still maneuver your blade for a draw cut. And yes slashes with that small of a blade are superficial, but in a self defense scenario killing your opponent isn’t the explicit goal, it’s to use the necessary amount of force to repel their attack. If that means cutting them enough till they drop or run away, fine. If it means running them through and ending their life to save yours, also fine. Just more options would be better from my point of view.
He has a video on sword canes
Because sword canes are typically illegal to carry
I think you've done well in your analysis Shad, good job! I'd still go with the Falcata, just because I love the look, but in actuality - the Gladius is more useful and versatile.
OK, I'm about to start the vid (paused at intro), and I've thought about this a lot. Specifically - home defense. I think a naval cutlass is it. The sword was designed for CQB in tight spaces against unarmored opponents when guns were a thing. Short blade to not get stuck in walls/ceilings (but not so short to be a disadvantage - long enough to give some reach), complex hilt to protect hand and resist disarms (and you can punch with it), curved for the slash but with a tip that can thrust. Those are all advantages in home defense scenarios. IF combined with a UHMWPE heater or rotella/targe thick enough to stop small arms (and you ensure the hilt won't interfere with the shield), you have a VERY viable modern home defense option. Especially with targe strapping partially freeing up the offhand and the spike - so many options!
I’ve thought the gladius was the best self defense sword for a long time. I’m glad my gut feeling is backed up by logic from such an esteemed expert!
When you said that the sword would have to be one-handed I immediately thought that you should be looking at the best modern day SHIELD for self defence.
flashlight to blind the enemy
Flashlight yes but a dual purpose briefcase shield could be useful as well
I was thinking of a hat that could be used as a buckler. Similar shape, inconspicuous, you can wear it anywhere.
Yes it is a design that was more optimal for bronze that limits blade length, favors rounded leaf style blades (Kopis, Falcata...). Still wouldn't want to mess with a Gurkha with a (related) Kukri though.
29:35... Took bloody long enough. The whole time I was saying "The GLADIUS! Duh!" Not too long and cumbersome to carry around like a Rapier or Long Sword. It's short enough to wear while getting in and out of a car without too much trouble, but not too short like a knife. It's got a broad double-edge blade excellent for cutting and slashing. And it's got acute in-line point making it exceptional at thrusting and stabbing. The Gladius is definitely my #1 choice for an every-day-carry self-defense sword.
I carry an hand ax and a handgun, but the gladius style machete is something I want.
I've always thought of the gladius this way myself. Its short length makes it more maneuverable indoors too, so if you're caught in a hallway in a house, you can still react and take controlled swings, along with thrusts. A rapier or longsword in that situation would be pretty difficult to use, I think.
I am personally convinced the best self defense sword would be a custom made one, based on a shorter version of the rappier, but the handle being build for more comfort, maybe a slightly curved handle and 2 of those blade guards intended to actually catch an other blade and lock it.
edit: reason being: Most people wont catch an other person having a sword, let alone be attacked with it, yet knifes are quite common, thus the most ideal sword for a modern day should be one that was designed to be used against such.
as an extra note, even better how ever would be if said sword also hid a single or 2 shot derringer
Cobra steel lakonia, very similar to the classic gladius shape and is a very cheap budget option, but is actually very VERY good quality for being a budget under $100 sword.
100% agree! I’ve been debating a machete or a sword to complement an axe for a bug out bag. Glad I watched your video to discover the gladius sword. Great video 👍 Thank you.
21:05 according to CDC & FBI statistics, most of the times a gun is used in self-defense in the US it isn't fired. The individual brandishes their weapon & their attacker flees.
Millions of prevented crimes and attacks per year.
Especially a pump action shotgun most burglars tend to flee when hearing a gun cocking a beware of dog sign also helps since they would rather pick another house rather than risk getting attacked by a large dog
@@ln7929 nothing more terrifying than the sound of a 1918 pump action shotgun cycling when you're somewhere you know you don't belong. Slam fire is a helluva deterrent.
I recently discovered that there are no restrictions on blade carry in the US state I live in, including swords. So legally I could carry a sword around. Personally I would have a smallsword in mind, but the only thing stopping me is I don't want people to think I'm crazy. XD
Before watching, I would guess that the ideal self defense sword would be something short and stabby, but still has some decent chopping power. A Gladius would be my guess.
Good call. I had a similar thought.
Idk what about seax , imean that knife the saxons and norse used
Machete! And not a cheap garden store one.
At least that would be my pre-watching guess.
It's depends on whether sword carry is broadly acceptable. If your opponent is likely to also have a blade weapon, hand protection would be a big deal. I'd guess something more like a swept-hilt small sword (24-28 in)
For the purpose of self defense? What comes to my mind is a bowie knife.
Hey, great video.. You forgot one scenario.. A frequently used modern weapon for self defense would be a club or a bat. The crossguard of a short sword (the blade could still have a gladius profile) could stop or better deflect club/bat strikes.
What we really want to know is, what Siege engine is the best for modern day self defence?
Great to have you back shad. I am very happy that you recovered so quickly .
oh what happened.??
@@JoshuaKevinPerry I heard he was ill recently from the virus . But great to see him recover..
For modern day self defense with historical weapons (instead of modern, like that updated gladius), I would think about the environments we're most likely to fight in, and then choose something used in analogous settings. Modern self defense is not going to happen on big wide-open battlefields, but will probably take place somewhere indoors. Who fought indoors? Pirates! And navy guys in general. Ships are just floating buildings, they have cramped quarters, and they all managed to kill each other when they needed to. The way they did that was with a cutlass.
A cutlass is about the same length as a gladius, has a pointy end for stabbing, but makes an excellent instinctual slashing weapon. For those who don't train regularly with swordfighting, a cutlass is going to still outclass all modern knives out there, and just by reacting to threatening movement in a natural way, it can deliver devastating cuts, or chop off limbs. I think about all the poor men and boys who were pressed into naval service at the time when the cutlass dominated the seas. They weren't noblemen trained from an early age in the art of swordfighting, but they could fight very effectively if given a cutlass. And if you do train with a cutlass you can do very well with it against anything that doesn't have more reach.
What was the reach weapon used in the age of sail? Same as it is now: the firearm. Do as the pirates did; carry a cutlass in one hand, and a pistol in the other. If somebody tries to attack you up close, slash at them with your cutlass to deflect their attack (or end it), and then shoot them directly in the face with your pistol. And, more importantly, deter the possibility of attack by owning a lot of cannons. If they do attack from long range, use your cannons.
I always had a liking for the Roman gladius, seems fast and effective.
I just hate the hilts of good reproductions. Definitely *strongly* encourage a hammer-grip, and discourage any saber-like long thrusts with extended wrist.
Me too, as well as the Spatha. Additionally I like the hilt design on them both.
I've always preferred the Celtic war sword myself. Same general design but a bit longer for better reach and a curved hilt for at least some hand protection.
@@unkownUtopia27- They weren't made for long thrusts. The intent was for the legionary to catch or block their opponent's attack, then stab vital areas up close.
@@julietfischer5056 - which works great if you've also got a shield (some shield, any shield...). Without one... the extra range for a thrust, or a snap-slash, would be golden.
Shad, I think you are forgetting a good candidate. The naval hangar/cutlass. Short, handy, cut and thrust, and if you get one with a serious robust hand guard it will protecc your digits and serve as a greah honkin' set of brass knuckles when appropriate.
Is this like the one at 5:20 ?
He's also forgetting that choosing a weapon on the criteria to be more deadly then another of the same size is absurd. The more deadly the weapon is, the bigger the chance you will kill somebody unwillingly (Or yourself if you fall on your own sword). Also, if you cause excessive damage by said weapon, in many countries you will be imprisoned for exceeding the limits of self-defence. Also, if the court finds out that you were aware that eg. gladius thrusts better than a machette, and you pick gladius to carry around, and hurt somebody, you can be convicted of attempted murder. In this sense it's legally much safer to carry something that wasn't designed as a weapon and better yet it wouldn't be expected to be used as a weapon.
That optimized self defense "sword" already exists. It's called a bayonet. Preferably the ww2 Kar98 variant. Much more concealable and handy than your Athena and every bit as deadly. But yes the cutlass did come to mind too.
I think he means something like a trench knife. It's got brass knuckles wrapped around the Tang of a knife.
@@mariaragonese2543 Naval Hanger sword
View all
A cutlass is a short, broad sabre or slashing sword, with a straight or slightly curved blade sharpened on the cutting edge, and a hilt often featuring a solid cupped or basket-shaped guard. It was a common naval weapon during the early Age of Sail.
Used by: Sailors, pirates, and privateers
Length: Mostly 28-32 inches (leadcutter cutlasses were up to 36 inches in length)
Place of origin: Europe
Blade profile 100% agree, but I would love D guard on mine.
My dad, god rest his soul, was a bit of a blade collector. He had several bayonets in his modest collection. I’d probably choose one of the more modern one of those in a truly SHTF situation.
Normal day? Blunt objects probably are a decent choice for versatility. Or a revolver all things considered.
SHTF , a shotgun is bare minimum. The revolver is the gun to get you to the shotgun.
A reliable 10mm automatic would be my first choice.
@@JustSomeGuywithEpicGrasses
Same. They are among the best melee weapons.
Epic segue-ing! Another benefit of a free hand is that you can grab random stuff and hurl it at your attacker's head. Even if it isn't a great throw or a heavy object, just having anything coming at their eyes will most likely make them flinch or duck reflexively.
The kukri knife is the best its super thick can be used for beating and blocking. Cutting and using the butt end
I agree. I've decided on a maintz gladius myself and am just waiting on funding to be there for the thing. I'm always short on cash during the winter because of the propane bill.
Now where I live, my main concern isn't humans, but dangerous animals. I don't like guns, so I carry a spear if I'm going somewhere where there are big cats, or out at night. It's a norse type hewing spear with the lugs. The spearhead is swordlike. It's a lot like a naginata, more two-handed polearm than light thrusting spear. I keep it razor sharp. I would be confident against a bear or large cat, and I'd have a chance against wolves. I use halberd techniques with it. I'm planning to get the gladius as a backup sidearm.
Machetes are super underrated. Look up the Cuban war of independence. Cubans defeated the Spaniards using machetes and charging the Spanish army on horseback. Most Cubans didn’t have muskets and so they mostly did cavalry charges with machetes.
As a rule of thumb if you're trying to conceal something, it should be no longer than your forearm at the most. Lengthwise that is generally about the size you could conceal while walking and wearing a jacket.
Also, wear baggy clothes it makes it much easier to keep the item from being obvious.
What about a cane sword?
It also depends on legalities, additionally if it's obvious & you seem able to handle it there is an intimidation factor. If you are clearly carrying a weapon & clearly can handle/use it almost any potential enemy would rather avoid you. Anyway I say bring back the Quarterstaff perhaps enhanced with a solid round head on the end & a good round spike on the end.
@@morrigankasa570 A Quarter staff would be fine for self defense, but then those legalities come into play. Self defense, at least here in the US is about 90% perception. Cool as it may be, a weighted quarter staff would probably be seen as you looking for trouble, making you potentially appear as a bad guy.
@@Neo2266. If it's legal in your area sure go for it. I've personally never seen a reason for sword canes though, they often are imbalanced and don't handle very well. You're better off with a regular cane. I'm not saying you can't or won't find a good one. I've just never found one myself.
@@8-7-styx94 I guess it could work as a deterrent, maybe
The Zulu Assagai (iklwa). Not only used for stabbing but also to slash and hack and with better reach and easier to wield.
CUTLASS: Shortish length for reality of most fights which are up close or indoors, mostly straight (for thrusting), wide blade (weight = sever and cleave)
Short also is quicker to draw
a basket hilt that's cut down/partial so as ot be not so cumbersome but still able to guard the hand and punch
my 2 cents and experiences of unpleasantness :)
Something like the Royal Navy ones I take it? Good choice. There are also manuals of arms in existence still to make it easy to upskill in their use.
Unless you live in a place where carrying a giant knife is "normal", I think that using one in a self-defense situation would be difficult to defend in court.
doesnt matter if its normal. Only matters if its legal. You're allowed to defend yourself if your life is threatened.
@@abnon-tha3088 Statistically, places that allow people to be armed for defense have far less weapon attacks.
The difference between 'legal to carry' and 'the law isn't paying attention anyway' is important, however.
Criminals will always find a way to be armed. Arming the innocent, and having them trained in effective use of their tools, creates an environment in which criminals have to weigh their odds.
They aren't afraid of the law, or lawkeepers. They must be afraid of their intended victims.
@@jeran881 Yeah but we live in a time where defending yourself with a deadly weapon will result in a "guilty until proven innocent" scenario.
@@Propane_Acccessories Correct. There is a catch 22 in most countries where defending yourself is legal yet if one does it can often land you in jail. Running is in most cases the best choice yet some times one doesn't have that choice.
@@abnon-tha3088 When seconds count, the police are minutes away.
Here in rural Wisconsin its not uncommon for men to carry a larger fixed blade knife or a folder, sometimes both. Its understood from childhood that they are primarily working tools but also combat tools if necessary. Many men also carry a pistol so the knife takes the back seat in most defensive applications.
The problem with a Gladius is that it's recognizably a sword, to the point that nobody is going to assume you're using it to clear brush(even if you can/do). This means that, in the eyes of both the law and the people around you, it will be treated much more harshly than a machete, so there will be far fewer situations where you'll be allowed to have it on you.
For that reason, I think just adding a back edge to a machete, like you initially suggested, is the better option.
If you're walking around with a machete in most populated areas you're going to get roughly the same reaction as a sword. In places a machete is considered acceptable they're just going to look at you like you're weird/stupid for the most part if you're carrying a similarly sized sword. "Yeah, Bob's the weirdo that carries a short sword rather than a machete like a normal person. Doesn't clear scrub well, but he seems to like it."
@@BulletsNBrass In Pennsylvania where I live, you can legally carry any knife that has a "common lawful purpose". There was a case where someone took an 8 inch butcher's knife out of their house and went over to threaten someone else, and it was ruled that since butcher's knives have a very common purpose, he could not be charged for carrying an offensive weapon. I assume a machete would fall under that ruling, while a gladius would not.
@@valerielastname9508 You assume wrong. Down here in Florida, it's common place to see on the news about folks who get into a machete fight. Since it's the weapon of choice of certain folks of ethnic backgrounds. As for the butchers knife, when you say "8 inches", that tends to be blade and handle as overall length. I carry a 10 inch butchers knife in my hiking kit and no one says anything. But if I carry that same knife on me when I walk down the street or to the store, damn right I'll be stopped by the police. Work blades, such as box cutters or multitools are fine to carry in a pocket, but you do not want to be concealed carrying a knife over 4 inches on your body. Even when I was a chef, carrying my knives in a soft case still ran a risk of people getting antsy, which forced me to carry them in a tool box. In Florida, we can carry fixed blades as open carry...but...again, you have to consider the current climate of a certain political faction who are trying to ban everything and won't hesitate to call the police on you. Just use common sense when it comes to weapons. Funny thing about the gladius, they sell camping versions of it, which would mark it as a tool...But would you risk it?
@@valerielastname9508 That kind of law gets interpreted differently by different judges, but you are correct. It's also been interpreted to mean that you have to BE engaged or on the way to engage in that purpose. Using it in another way changes the context enough to be significant from a legal perspective. Then you get into all the various disturbing the peace charges, awkward conversations with the police... Concealed is better all around, and not threatening your neighbor helps too. lol.
Piece of advice Shad, when you're filming outside on a sunny day again, be sure to put metal handled weapons in the shade if you can so they don't burn your hands. It was kind of funny though. Also, not sure if it could be classified as a sword but something like a Bowie knife could be a very effective self-defense weapon.
if looking for medieval weapons that would work, investigate the "Lange Messer" or long knife - popular in 14-15th century Germany. its handy to be able to draw it out one handed in a tight area - like when someone kicks in your front door and is grabbing you and trying to pull you to the ground and there is not enough room to swing anything long, just to stab or cut.
The best self defence tool is one that you can carry with you all the time.
My Personal choice is a sturdy knife 12cm blade with a seax blade.
For home defence a tramontina machete or my short spear.
The one thought I had when you mentioned a cross guard is not needed: in my neck of the woods, asps are not unheard of. Being able to trap an asp or other small club-like weapon could be useful.
so weird hearing shad prise a rapier after having read his book (shadow of the conqueror), where the main character hates them, with a passion, even if there is a good reason for him to do so (like being a really bad fit against the shadows)
Me personally, I like the rapier and the sabre the most, since the sabre can make a lot of slashes very quickly, although it cannot thrust.
I actually came to the same conclusion. In fact, my new idea for an ideal apocalypse spear is basically a Gladius-Glaive hybrid on a rectangular or octagonal shaft with a disk guard.
Agreed.
Glaive with medium length guarded-spiked handle & pointed shaft.
Strong, stout ax blade & reverse facing spike for direct armor penetration.
Having a long bladed spear with a gaurd near the base of the blade is really solid (the spear doesn't get enough love) because of its versatility. The gaurd should also stop most charging enemies and animals in their tracks, like the Wings on a boar spear, prevents their momentum carrying them into you along with their attack (in which case you both die probably). Though if you're saying the spear shaft should be octagonal/ rectangular, definitely don't agree with that, it's very uncomfortable to hold something with edges that effectively act as pressure points pushing into your hand, even if the edges are rounded. I think ideally you want a slightly oval cross section with the longest diameter in the same plane as the cutting plane, because that helps with edge alignment and gives you nice touch feedback.
Aaah to be fair some heavy polearms seem to have rectangular cross sections but I never really understood that
I love my octagonal Bo staff and spear shafts. In and out of gloves it allows me to feel point and edge orientation. Having edges on the shaft also allows the shaft to cause a little more damage while striking. Kind of like running into a corner as apposed to a rounded surface. A lot of buhurt pole weapons are hex or octagonal shafted. My opinion on oval shafts comes from my experience with brush hooks. They tend to turn in your hand more often then you might like. But that’s just my opinion.
I love how he's usually pretty specific when naming weapons and just calls a kukri a machete lol. Still, loved this video as usual. Also, with the centered tip being better for thrusting, i have a kukri with a straight back, meaning the point is lined up. So at least its decent lol. Love your videos Shad, very informative, very fun. (And i do agree that a gladius is probably among the best for this)
Also, 43:46. That was hilarious.
I also when redesigning single-edged weapons put at least the last 2-3 inches of the back bladed for a quick swipe and to improve piercing. Anyone have thoughts on that?
Jesus Christ is Lord. Please take your salvation seriously. It is all True. Read the Bible and do what it says. It is more important than you know.,
because this is kukri-style machete, the manufacturers call it a machete, its not proper kukri I think. I have the same machete in home for self-defense XDD
It honestly looks like a mix between kukri and a kopis to me
@@jamesmayle3787 nah, not true. The whole notion of salvation contradicts itself. It's got human made anthropomorphic qualities too embedded. It literally claims to get people to not go to the best place for them to be. If it's not the best place, then why would a perfect being blunder so badly to let red tape keep people from being in the best place? Why would a perfect being be bound to having to exploit a loophole to get the best thing to happen? Loopholes are for weaknesses in a law. But a law that sends people to hell if it's equally perfect to save them isn't a perfect law. It's a short-sighted law, because a perfect law would make sure to result in nothing less than the best. Being tied up by red tape is a human problem. This has human fabrication all over it.
@@roninanbu. I thought more about a mix of a machiara, falcata and kopis. And a kukri is just a strong curved baby kopis.
I came into this video thinking a Mainz Gladius. I'm half way through the video and it is looking like you might agree. Thrusting stabbing pointy tip. Hacking with weight balance point farther towards the tip than a standard sword. And double-edged.
I feel like scimitars, especially tulwars, should have had a bit more of a showing; they're dedicated one handed swords that may not be the best for thrusting, but are thin enough to permit it. They come in short enough versions still be useful in enclosed, narrow spaces. Their curve means that you can reach around objects an intruder is shielding themselves with, which a regular thrusting straight sword might struggle with. Also, the design means you can hold the the weapon in close around your body - practically against it - and still deliver powerful draw cuts.
That said, I think a gladius seems like a very strong choice, but also that a long dagger would be the optimal choice. Basically any weapon with too much length to it will risk striking walls in a narrow corridor or passage. Not only that, but the longer the weapon, the more likely an assailant will clock it. That might be good in some circumstances as it may scare them off, but in others it just makes it all the more obvious what they need to grab at to disarm you. Something concealable has an obvious benefit in that respect.
I feel like any useful modern self defense weapons is mainly bigger than an average knife but also concealable. Folding or extending blades are nice but anything that folds has a propensity to break. My preferred is a hatchet of some kind but I've considered carrying a small kukkiri
I would definitly pick the gladius with the small Shield you showed at the start. But only at home because of the narrow corridors, stairs and rooms. Outside I would use a hunter knife, a small hammer or any potentially easy to hide tool 🤷🏻♂️
Personally I would just use a gun,but not everyone is blessed with the second amendment so yea a shield would be good in close quarters though it would be a good idea to also bring it outside as well never know when you might need some defense
Looks like a co lab with hard to hurt is on the cards
I always thought kukri, but in a way there are a lot of similar properties between that and the final pick as far as versatility and weight.
Agreed, but a Gurkha with one...
I have obviously never held a gladius myself, but what I imagined I would want before you said it was a short blade that I could "hack" well and has that type of weight distribution. Something short that allows me to have good control in my hand. The gladius is kind of what I pictured, I might even go a tad bit smaller but I don't know how big it is in real life.
yea that short modern one is exactly what I was thinking
A weighted single sided blade, aka machete, would be the best thing to use. When you introduce a blade on both sides the user has to have increased awareness of the weapons position relative to them, while a single sided blade has 1 business end to worry about. Mitigate thinking by reducing variables that are harmful to yourself, so reaction time is increased.
a Gladius is typically 18-33 inches in length (Hilt / Pommel included) depending on who made them. The one used by Roman Legionnaires was typically a 20 inch blade with a 5 - 7 inch long hilt w/ Pommel and weighed approx 2 lbs making it a light weapon to wield and well balanced for combat.
This was eventually replaced by the Spatha which increased the reach of the soldier, particularly on Horseback to 20-39 Inches in length (Hilt and Pommel included) with the hilt being typically 7 - 9 inches including the pommel.
This video reminds me of those youtube ads that refuse to tell you what they're advertising, but will constantly tell you why what they're advertising is the best thing ever.
As soon as I saw the title and thumbnail my mind went right to the gladius. I used to not care for it at all and thought it was boring but I’ve come to appreciate it as one of the best designed and versatile family of swords ever. Other than the gladius I would have gone for the Cinquedea or a large Dirk as a bladed pdw. (As long as the grip is properly shaped so you can retain edge alignment)
Cinquedea, yes! Love it.
Machetes works best with a weaponry systems that utilizes its cutting mechanics. Systems like the Filipino Martai Art Kali Escrima. Machete wielding is also part of their practice along with knives, sticks, even a pen. Common things that you can find at home or anywhere.
I know that this video was specifically about what type of sword would be good for modern times however I think the collapsible batton might actually be more ideal. Easier to carry, quick to deploy, still has a reach advantage, quite usable in close quarters, and concealable. Also it's fairly easy to get training, I'm thinking specifically of Kali/Escrima. And for me I like the fact that a batton is far less lethal yet just as capable of ending a fight in your favor.
It’s always hard to thrust with an off centered tip. ~that’s what he said 💪🏽
I own guns but I got an eastwing hatchet and a ontario bush knife that's basically a short machete with 14inch blade and D guard handle, those are my back packing tools but I feel efficient enough for self defense
"The clip fell out Oz!" Lol that's a magazine Shad. Pedantic joking aside I think I find your logic sound. The gladius is a fine sword and I think your points are pretty good. It's length, cutting ability, doubled edge are certainly good arguments. I would still say if it was socially acceptable I would still rather carry a longsword/ bastard sword or perhaps a side sword. Another sword I thought of though was the Wakizashi. It's not double edge, but it is shorter and easier to carry than a katana and does have good cutting ability. It won't stab quite as well as a gladius but it's sufficient. You can even find modern tactical styles of it including a machete one. My only issue with buying those kind of swords is they do come off as kind of wanna be soldier/ mall ninja, and unfortunately finding good ones can be hard. Especially ones not made in China as I refuse to by blades from China anymore becasue I really don't feel right buying one of my favorite things from a country that uses slaves, and could very well have been made by a slave. Other than that blade material is important and lots of those taticool blades don't always use the best steel. In fact most I tend to find are made of garbage bargain bin stainless steel. I also think there is something to be said about a sword that looks traditional and from it's period. It has a sense of class. Yeah a tactical katana or longsword looks cool, but there is an elegance to a traditional one that just looks respectable to me.
We have no stand your ground law here in tennessee so basically a person has to be right up on you for you to legally shoot them so a sword is actually a pretty good option here.
Yea I had a feeling gladius would be the pick for close combat. Xiphos would probably do equally well. But it's important to remember that blades similar in shape to that smaller machete can be perfectly fine for thrusting. That one in particular, while obviously better than the bigger machete. still doesn't have that pointed tip angled quite well enough.
i would personnaly choose a messer, it is true that the crossguard is useless in this context, but it doesnt negativly afect having one. besides i think the blade profile is better for cutting and piercing
the british smatchet fits as well being I own the cold steel version and it it fits all shad's criteria, and I suggest it if you truly want a useful self defence weapon. It was used by britsh special forces and designed by the real life Q William E. Fairbairn.
P.S. would love a video on this historical masterpiece.
A Dirk could be a good option for the centred point. More of a dagger though.
Thank you Shad for yet another reason to buy a Gladius.
An artillery saber would be great too, especially with a full hand guard which is useful for close melee punching and hand protection. Plus they have a nasty point for stabby stabby. From personal experience, I've carried machetes for work for years. From that I've learned that a 20" blade machete is the longest blade before it becomes awkward and cumbersome. Also, a 24" machete is a far more wicked cutter than ab 18", disproportionate to the size and weight difference. Finally, removing an 18" machete from the sheath is possibly twice as fast as a 24" blade. Neither are "slow", but if I'm cutting a lot of small brush, and have to continually pull out the machete I'll go with an 18" or a good 16" blade. I have yet to try a gladius, but now I have an excuse.
Wouldn't you want some basic hand protection? Not a full basket or anything like that. But maybe a knucklebow?
i'd take a good wakizashi with enough tsuka for hand and a half wielding or even a otanto over a gladius any day of the week. but the gladius is also a great EDC option
I love you man. I gave you 2 subs, from my 2 channels, you are underapreciated but Please keep your head up and walk forward, you are quality, no joke.
What if the machete had a saw on the unsharpened side, both for addressing the matter of grappling, but also to potentially catch an attacker's blade, and also for the plausible deniability of it being a tool?
For me, swords are the last weapon that I would select. They require more training and effort to master, than most other weapons. Plus, if your technique isn't good, you may lose YOUR OWN opposite arm or leg on the follow-through. Some people learn quicker and are more talented. However, I'm not and swords, therefore, scare the heck out of me!
Bro a small gun that can hold six bullets is fine for me or maybe you can get teaser or pepper spray
combine the gladius with a caetra type of shield (cold steel has one) and I think you are ready for close combat in a reduced space like a home. Unless guy has a gun. Then you better be really close
25:29 Having a point off centre.... well, that's strictly not true for kukri and most kukri-shaped machetes. These are perfect for thrusting and combining slashing and thrusting movement into one. If you know how to use it - it can be a formidable weapon. The downside is that for kukri, - one needs to learn some very specific kukri techniques. And even using them as machetes for light wood cutting takes getting used to. The other downside is their shape is frankly not the easiest to sharpen, and the type of high carbon steel many of the absolutely awesome longer kukri-shaped machetes are forged from, like ones made by Cold Steel, - make sharpening additionally difficult. Having said that - they are very light and they keep their edge very well even after extended periods of use. At one point I found working with it so much a breeze that I stopped taking my small camping axe with me in favor of one. In many countries like Canada - carrying ANY weapon for purposes of self-defense is illegal, however machetes are an outdoor survival tool and any knife (if not too long) can be used for many types of work and even to fend off an animal attack, so depending on what area of the country you live and work in, or the type of work you do - it makes practical and legal sense to carry a medium size machete. Unless you're British. Your government thinks you're so dangerous that carrying even as little as a folding pocket knife for perfectly plausible reasons is seen as a threat to the public.
Living in countries where guns aren't common to have, I'd use the blunt weapons. It causes permanent damage and is more intimidating to the opponents. Especially in winter people wear multiple layers of clothes and when you self defence at home, you're looking at close-quarter combat, not much movement for long weapons and even if it's sharp it's gonna take a lot of effort to cut through multiple layers of clothes. Hammer, short mace, if you're skillful short knives are great to disable the intruders without killing them.
i choose my self defense Zweihänder with a custom back scabbard that allows me to draw it. Like who would want to mess with someone that is wearing a giant sword on their back even if you don't know if they can draw or use it?
I carry a Cold Steel Rajah 2 and have an axe in the backseat of my car 😂😂. It’s incredibly hard in my area to LEGALLY acquire and carry a handgun, but folding knives have no size limits and are required to be concealed. Also tools like axes are unrestricted, but generally frowned upon if you’re seen carrying it, and you’d definitely be stopped by police, so I keep it in the car.
If just picking a sword, I'd opt for some form of basket-hilted broadsword, most likely a schiavona. The hand protection would be invaluable, while having more versatility than the rapier.
think outside the box Razor Razor Company is way to go