Toward the end of the 17th century, a sophisticated, shorter and lighter version of the Rapier emerged as the tool of choice for personal carry and defense - the Small Sword. Its stiff, lightweight blade was forged in a triangular cross section, and the hilt was both simple and smartly functional, consisting of no more than an elliptical plate, or two shells and a knuckle guard. Cold Steel's modern version duplicates the best features of many historical examples, but uses 1060 carbon steel, heat treated to a tough spring temper. The hilt features two shells with functional finger loops and a light, but exceptionally strong, knuckle guard. Each Small Sword also comes complete with an attractive leather scabbard with an intricately decorated throat and chape.