Kirby Wise Hand Forged Rapier
Custom Itallian style, Circa 1650's swept hilt rapier is a completely hand forged, one-of-a-kind piece and comes with a nice custom leather scabbard with brass fittings.
Weight: 3 lbs 14 oz. (yes, that's right, it's good sized)
Blade length: 41.5 inches.
Ricasso length: 3 inches.
Overall length: 51.5 inches.
Cross guard width: 10 inches.
POB: approx. 5 inches in front of where the ricasso enters the hilt.
This rapier is solid, very well made and a beautiful representation of this class of weapon. Opinions vary but several would claim Kirby Wise to be the 'Ewart Oakeshott' of swordmaking revival. As in, the man was a forerunner in making swords when no one else did, or would. This is an exciting piece and definately of collector potential. Kirby states that he has tested his rapier blades by lunging --through-- doors with them. (not recommended). The edge has a 1mm rebate to it but the point is very sharp and it wouldnt take much pressure to put the point through something.
There is nothing feeble about this blade, which shows a lot of distal taper, terminating in a thick diamond cross section. Kirby Wise swords are not fragile gems, and this is no exception. A stout, gorgeous rapier.
The original owner paid $950 for this piece about 5-years ago. I'd like to get about $800 and the cost of shipping. I'll ship to the CONUS and would prefer to receive inquiries via my personal email at sceppley@comcast.net.
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