During the Renaissance of Europe, the infantry used a type of war sword commonly known as the side sword. The term was coined from the Italian phrase spada da lato, which literally means “sword from side”. They were ideal for handling the mix of armored and unarmored enemies. This sword design eventually led to the creation of the modern-day rapier.

Early versions of the side sword looked more like an arming sword with an ornate hilt. Much later, a technique of improving one’s grip on the sword was discovered, which led to the design and production of hilts with finger guards. These weapons could be used for cutting and thrusting. Side swords used with bucklers became so popular that the term “swashbuckler” was coined.