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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Cap'n Kobold" data-source="post: 6847373" data-attributes="member: 6802951">No, the Rapiers are European, same as "longswords" and such. They are from a rather different time period than the usual mediaeval range that D&D settings tend to depict however. That said: rapiers and "D&D longswords" were used in the same time periods: Rapiers were used as fashion accessories and for duelling, but generally a real sword would be used for actual combat use where you would be fighting to kill or disable, against a foe who might be wearing armour, and in a disorganised melee. Civilian in the sense that it was generally carried to be seen and to advertise your family's fencing master, and in honour duels with codified rules. Adventurers would generally use military weapons, which are designed to be used in a real fight.Of course, there are times when clanking down the street like two tons of shiny metal death looking for someone to happen to is illegal, or even worse, a social faux pas. Where rapiers are the fashion, it may be best to follow fashion. Maybe, but I'm not sure I'd consider those swords finessable. The rapier was likely used because it was very much a backup weapon after you were no longer able to use your musket/bayonet or pike and they likely owned one for civilian use.The reason that the cavalry were issued broadswords instead is that it was their primary weapon: they were expected to fight in melee using it.</blockquote>