17th Century Spanish Cup Hilt Rapier

⚔️ Spanish Cup-Hilt Rapier – 17th Century Elegance, Forged for the Modern Duelist

Looking for a real 17th-century Spanish cup-hilt rapier replica? This is it. Inspired by the legendary blades of the Golden Age of Spanish fencing, this sword is a faithful, functional reproduction designed for historical fencers, collectors, and students of La Verdadera Destreza.

This rapier is not a wall-hanger—it’s a weapon built to be wielded.

🛡 What Is a Cup-Hilt Rapier?

The cup-hilt rapier was the pinnacle of Spanish sword design in the 17th century. With its iconic hemispherical guard and long, narrow blade, it became the signature weapon of Spanish nobles, military officers, and fencing masters. This design offered superior hand protection without sacrificing agility or thrusting accuracy—perfect for the La Verdadera Destreza school of fencing.

📏 Specifications

• Overall Weight: 1050 grams (2.3 lb).
• Blade Length: 101 cm (39.7″).
• Grip Length: 9 cm (3.5″) or 7 cm (2.75″)
• Cup Hilt Diameter: 14 cm (5.51″).
• Tip: Spatulated or Rolled (tournament friendly).
• Crossguard: 30 cm (11.81″).
• Distal: 5.5-2mm.
• Blade Width: 2cm
• Flex Strength: around 5 kg (11 lb)

🎯 Ideal For:

• Practitioners of La Verdadera Destreza and HEMA.
• Historical fencing enthusiast.
• Collectors, and reenactors.
• Those seeking a functional, historically accurate Spanish rapier.
• Cosplayers and performers portraying 17th-century Spanish nobility or soldiers

Customize your rapier with a 7 cm or 9 cm grip, choose between a regular blade or one with a central groove, and decide whether you want a classic knuckle bow for added hand protection—or prefer the sleeker, bow-less style.

Pair it with our HEMA Cloak 350N and Spanish type pantalones for an outfit worthy of any noble.

❓ What makes a Spanish rapier different from Italian rapiers?

A Spanish rapier typically features a solid cup-hilt and supports circular, geometry-based fencing like La Verdadera Destreza. In contrast, Italian rapiers often have swept hilts and are used in linear styles like those taught by Capo Ferro. The Spanish blade emphasizes control and hand protection, while the Italian favors speed and thrust precision.

❓ What is the best Spanish cup-hilt rapier replica?

The best Spanish cup-hilt rapier replica combines historical accuracy, full-tang construction, and fencing-ready balance. Our 17th-century Spanish cup-hilt rapier is forged for practice and display, using high-carbon steel, spatulated tip, and a hand-protective cup guard—making it ideal for La Verdadera Destreza practitioners and collectors alike.

❓ What rapier should I use for Destreza?

For practicing La Verdadera Destreza, you need a rapier with a cup-hilt, straight quillons, and correct proportions. This model is designed exactly for that.

❓ Is the Spanish cup-hilt rapier better for hand protection?

Absolutely. The cup-hilt design offers superior 360-degree protection for the hand compared to swept-hilt or complex-hilt rapiers. That’s why it became the standard in Spain during the 17th century. It’s ideal for fencing styles like Destreza, where hand security is critical.