This is a "what if" duel that was historically possible, and it's essentially a match of polar opposites.

The rapier has superior reach and quick, agile thrusts, while the katana delivers more powerful cuts and has the upper hand at close distance. Overall quite a high-risk fight.. assuming an unarmored duel. A battlefield scenario or an unexpected self-defense encounter on the street would be a different story.

What are the strengths and weaknesses of each, and what would happen if the fighters swapped swords? Lots to cover, so let's delve right in!

The reproductions shown here:

Shirasaya katana by Hanwei
https://www.kultofathena.com/product/...

Tizona - 17th century Spanish cup-hilt rapier by LK Chen
https://www.kultofathena.com/product/...

Saxony German rapier by LK Chen
https://www.kultofathena.com/product/...

Munich Town Guard sword by LK Chen
https://www.kultofathena.com/product/...


Video credits:

How Would a Katana Swordmaster Fight with a Rapier? by @letsasksekisensei
   • How Would a Katana Swordmaster Fight ...  

Katana vs Rapier Sparring - Burak vs Nick by @AcademyofHistoricalFencing
   • Katana vs Rapier Sparring - Burak vs ...  


Related videos:

Can a Rapier Defeat Mail Armor? - Let's Test and Find Out!
   • Can a Rapier Defeat Mail Armor? - Let...  

Why Some Rapiers are "Too" Flexible... (Are They?)
   • Why Some Rapiers are "Too" Flexible.....  

The Most Expensive Sword I've Ever Reviewed!
   • The Most Expensive Sword I've Ever Re...  

Katana VS Longsword... The Truth Ain't so Sad!
   • Katana VS Longsword... The Truth Ain'...  

Stabby Time! - Straight vs. Curved Swords on Ballistic Gel
   • Stabby Time! - Straight vs. Curved Sw...  


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** Music credits **


Outro:
"Highland Storm" by The Slanted Room Records
https://theslantedroom.github.io/stev...
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