Swept Hilt Rapiers trace their origins to early 17th century Europe, where swordplay with the Rapier was considered an essential part of a gentleman's education and was often used in resolving gentlemanly disagreements. Blades typically originated in Toledo or Solingen and would be hilted by regional smiths, resulting in many hilt styles. The 1092-GT has a high-carbon steel blade and a very attractive solid steel (not plated) basket with a genuine bone grip. A rigid leather-covered scabbard is included. Either of our rapier belts (Models 1039-GT or OK-H60) is ideally suited to this rapier.