Out of rapiers, side swords, zingers, and sabres, which would you prefer and why?

Some questions I have about each of these types of swords:
- Which holds an edge the longest
- Which can take the hardest beating
- Which delivers the most effective cuts
- Most effective thrusts?

Thanks in advance.

I'm no expert, but when you consider that there can be vast differences in swords of the same class (rapier, saber, etc), the best you can get here is going to be complete generalization.

For example, some rapiers, particularly the earlier ones, have decent cutting edges, while others are solely about the thrust. Both rapiers, but with different blade profiles and capabilities. Thus you may find X rapier to be better than Y side sword at whatever, but W rapier to be worse than Y side sword.

I have to ask, for what? The question is beyond vague without more context. I might prefer any one of those depending on what I wanted to do with it. Also, even within a given type of sword, there is a great deal of variation.

Assuming that we’re talking about some kind of fantasy scenario like in Heinlein’s Glory Road, where I can pick a weapon I like to take with me on all kinds of adventures, I’d probably take the side sword for sheer versatility. And I actually own a nice one made by A&A, so I'm good to go there.

But if that wasn’t what you were getting at, it might help if you explained more what you’re looking for. :)

What is a "zinger"?

Edge holding depends on the hardness of the blade, the hardness of the target, the edge geometry, and the abrasiveness of the target.

What can take the hardest beating is more a question of how much you are willing to compromise on handling. I could find you a 35lb piece of metal that is sword shaped that would take one hell of a beating but you wouldn't be able to defend yourself with it.

Cutting and thrusting is more about the practitioner than the weapon.

When I started becoming interested in swords, I wanted to know what the "best" sword would be, but they are designed to do different things. Even, as has been mentioned, individual swords in the same category are very different.

The best thing would be to handle as many swords as possible, preferably actual historic weapons. I know this can be difficult to impossible, I have handled exactly one sword from the early 15th century. The next best thing would be to go to a blade show where Arms and Armor, Albion, or Atrim, are selling and handle some high quality reproductions.

Its like whats the best type of car? and the answer is, are you trying to race or haul lumber. If you are racing will the course have long straights of will it be tight and curvy? Is the track brand new and glassy, or is it older with frost heaves and cracks?

All these conditions effect the answer, and we haven't even touched on personal preference. The car I am most comfortable in might feel twitchy and unstable to someone else. And there favorite car might feel slow and lumbering to me.

One sword might be perfect for use on horseback, but not so much for use on foot. Or one is more suited for a chaotic battlefield while another is better for self defense.

Maybe guns are a better analogy than cars, a target rifle would be the thing for competitive shooting, but you wouldn't want it in a muddy battlefield where the tight tolerances needed for that accuracy would be easily locked up by dirt.

Sorry if I got a little long winded but its a question with a huge amount of variables.

I would suggest looking into some historic fencing classes in your area and see if one style speaks to you, then find a sword that best fits that style.