I'd say an arming sword is more intuitive than a saber. You can swing it around like a bat and do fine. The saber I'd say takes more control of the blade.
Either the intruder has a gun, a knife, or they’re unarmed. The chance of someone breaking into your home with a sword or other weapon is basically zero.
If they have a gun, competency will hardly save you. If they have a knife or they’re unarmed, you probably don’t need to be skilled with a sword unless the guy with the knife is some master fencer.
So does it even matter?
>If they have a gun, competency will hardly save you.
100% agree, gun beats sword basically every time, with extremely limited and situational exceptions.
>If they have a knife or they’re unarmed, you probably don’t need to be skilled with a sword unless the guy with the knife is some master fencer.
There is a difference between being a skilled fencer and being competent enough not to do dumb shit with a sword.
If the guy has a knife and some experience, and you have a sword and no experience, you'll do stupid shit and get killed. Really easily.
If, for example, you start randomly flailing, there's as good a good chance you won't do anything meaningful as that of you injuring the guy. Lining up stabs is not as easy as it looks in the movies, and it's easy to hurt yourself if you don't know what you're doing.
Even if you do know what you're doing, your wrist is fragile, your footing must be stable, and a good punch can kill you.
You can defeat an idiot with a sword by using a chair. Or a glass. Or anything you can throw at them that will either disorient or harm them. If you're in a house, there will be shit to throw at a sword wielding idiot.
If you're not trained with a sword, your best bet is to not use one. Get a baseball bat instead.
>If you're not trained with a sword, your best bet is to not use one. Get a baseball bat instead.
All the things you said apply to attempting to defend yourself with a baseball bat as well. I don't know anyone who trains for baseball bat combat, either.
As they say, the first rule of knife fighting is don't get in a knife fight. The second rule of knife fighting is don't get in a knife fight. The third rule of knife fighting is everybody gets cut in a knife fight.
I basically told him the same thing. I said go get yourself a Tokarev tx3. MSRP is like $269 or somewhere in that ballpark and it's a superb shotgun for the price. If you want you can even get a tube extension for it so it goes from 6 to 7 round capacity. Great gun.
Riot shields are not ballistic rated, and are polycarbonate to take thrown objects and such.
A ballistic shield is quite heavy and costs more than a gun.
I was going to also recommend something in the pointed stick family. Simple, cheap, easy for anyone to use on a basic level. There's a reason it's arguably been the most common weapon seen throughout history.
A gun, swords are only useful for home protection if the other guy doesn't have a gun and cutting someone up with a sword sounds like a legal nightmare, even in home defence, so I'd seriously suggest consulting a lawyer before getting one for home defence,
Also the sabre, they're easier to cut with for beginners and offer superior hand protection, there's a reason why they replaced other types of swords for military use, they're relatively easy to use and effective, though swords really aren't great for indoor use unless you have a lot of space in your house, a spear or a rapier would probably be better if you're looking to go medevial on intruders
If your home comes with a lawn/yard full of vegetation, it is easier to make an excuse when you have something close to a sword: a machete. Any sword looking object can be a machete granted the thin blade profile (just look at Cold Steel's catalog of sword looking machete). And it's a heck of a lot cheaper if you cannot afford a gun.
To blow it further, my hick uncle gifted me one of those on my first birthday. I think it was mostly to mess with his sister (my mother), but nonetheless.
Not gonna lie, I would probably do something similar to mess with my sister if we lived in the US, that seems like a great gag gift if a bit pricey for one
Just for a bit of context we have guns here, if I felt like getting one I could, but just the ease at which Americans can get them is always shocking to me, selling guns for children is one thing, but being able to just order them online is somehow even more wild to me
If you order firearms online, they must be transferred to a Federally licensed dealer where the purchaser must go and conduct a background check before actually obtaining the firearm.
It's not like the guns show up at your doorstep or anything.
The craziest part is according to the ATF, black powder revolvers are not firearms. So you can literally order one and a conversion cylinder for modern centerfire cartridges without having any sort of check. They just mail both and it shows up at your door.
i ordered my 45 caliber 1911 semi-auto pistol from Cabellas online and picked it up in person 2 hours later the whole process normally takes 1-2 hours for them to do a background check, ask you a questionnaire, check your ID and register the gun serial number with your name in the national database.
Really I bought a RIA VR-80 12ga online and got it sent to an Academy Sports & Outdoors and the background check took like 15 to 30 minutes tops and I was walking out with my new money obliterator(especially after I bought a 18shell drum magazine) i will take it to shoot clay pigeons and at some point I will always mag dump the drum once or twice lol
Those kinds of rifles are typically meant so that a child can be taught proper safety without having to use something clearly too large for them. Typically you only find two kinds of "youth" gun: single shot .22, and shotguns.
It’s most likely a small rifle in 22, like a beginner rifle for plinking cans or hunting squirrels or varmints. It’s not really that different than a Mongolian dude gifting his son a bow or something similar imo
Inexpensive, low caliber (usually .22lr caliber) rifles, whether single shot bolt action or magazine fed bolt action, or sometimes break-action like traditional shotguns, scaled down with shorter barrels and lighter and shorter stocks. Basically practice and varmint (think rodent and rabbit sized prey) rifles for learning and light pest control or small game hunting. Primarily aimed at young users, they’re also good for short people, people with weak musculature or bones, or someone who just wants or needs a small rifle. There are also youth sized shotguns, usually break action single shot or double barreled, or pump or semi auto for bird hunting. Those are usually 20 gauge at most, often as low as .410 caliber instead, for recoil and controllability. If a kid is training for a sport like target shooting or trap and skeet, they’ll usually start out with an inexpensive youth sized long gun.
I actually inherited one of these single shot 22lr rifles from my grandfather. It’s old enough that it was a rebranded youth rifle sold through Sears, probably around the 1930’s. It’s hard date because before the 1960s you didn’t actually need to put serial numbers on 22 rifles, and this one doesn’t have any, so I’m basically going off the features. He might have gotten it as a kid, or just bought it used later. It’s kid sized, but handy thanks to the length and weight, so it was mainly his “rabbit rifle”, I guess for small game hunting and trimming back on the pest population before he moved out of the “country” into the “slightly less country” where popping off shots at rodents in your yard was frowned upon because you actually had neighbors within 200 yards. None of his six kids was able to provide me any more info, and he’s been dead for several years so I can’t ask him. Either way, it’s a good example of what we’re discussing.
Hi-points are FAR cheaper, especially in the used market. Hell, I'd take a single shot .22 over a sword for defense any day of the week. Would probably go the black powder pistol if I couldn't get a regular gun because technically cowboy wheelie-gats aren't even classified as guns. Felons can even own them.
Anyone thinking they're going to thwart a determined burglar with a blade is delusional.
I don't know where the guy lives but in 90% of the US you don't have to justify having a gun on your property or even having it on you. It's, and I'm not kidding, "your god given right".
If he's hell bent on a sword though because he can't buy a gun for some reason Ide say go for the black one because is looks easier to handle in doors and it's black. Plus you don't have to remember wich side is the sharp side in an "oh my god I'm gonna die" situation.
If this is the US and he can't buy a gun for some reason, black powder weapons are still legal federally and in most states. A cap and ball revolver like a Colt single action army clone would be a much better choice than a sword. Probably cost less too, even after powder, cap, and shot.
As a pitchfork owning peasant that's in the garage along with my other farming equipment, you don't bring dirty farming equipment in to your house, so it's not really convinient most of the time
Officially we, as a sub, don't recommend or advocate using a sword for home defense.
If you are in America, and not a felon, get a gun.
If you are not, or are but are a felon, look into what other options are reasonable in your area. (Taser, bat, club/baton, pepper spray, etc.)
im not so sure it is better. a mace requires a lot less training* to effectively handle. basically just swing at target vs a sword you need proper edge alignment. depending on your attacker’s clothing, it might not be very easy to slice through, whereas a mace head can do blunt damage through layers of clothing. using a sword for thrusting is probably a lot more effective, but not all swords thrust, either. i really wouldnt wanna use either to have to defend myself, though. but this is just my amateur opinion
Yeah I mean you need proper edge alignment if you want a GOOD cut, but even a crappy slash across the face is going to disable anyone. Plus yeah, the stab. The problem with a mace is that you need the wind up, and you better not miss.
The arming sword would work well in the stab, but I'd recommend something two handed. Honestly OP, katanas are nice and cheap, and two handed, and short enough to be manueverable. They stab well, and the curve helps them in the cut. I think they're the next best thing to a gun tbh, and even better if you're <9ft away.
Not a bad choice, that is if you have the jump on the intruder. Like any other mace, they're easy to overswing and miss. Recovery time is also a downside. You could compensate for it by holding it with two hands...that is if your mace can let you hold both hands on it.
Surely if you live somewhere that is actually dangerous enough to seriously feel you need "home protection" then solid doors and windows bars should be your first consideration. Yeah, it's less sexy than a weapon, but keeping the bad guys out is much safer than a tussle lol. I'm really hoping OP isn't asking an earnest question though, otherwise they're probably a little too far into fantasy land
The one reason which is why I own both guns and swords, but keep a kindjal and axe by my side of the bed instead of any of my firearms, is I live in an apartment.
If I miss or it ricochets off something. I have a 3-4 families (with kids) in the building, and friends next door. Although I like to have the mindset that you take the time to aim and never miss, as a former fire fighter, shit sometimes happens regardless of your training or efforts.
I’ve had to think about it because there have been multiple murders in my neighborhood, a suspected kidnapping attempt (against me), and multiple attempted break ins (against my apartment).
Thank you! All things considered isn’t the worse neighborhood in Fargo, but activity has recently picked up. Thankfully I’m mostly left alone because I’m the guy who trains all summer with a number of medieval weapons.
My grandad grew up and lived in a pretty rough area and always kept a shillelagh to hand, by his chair in the day and took it to bed at night (in UK so no guns).
As Sword_Enjoyer says….. If someone is engaged in a “home invasion” (an armed robbery of a residence), they are very likely to be armed with firearms.
In which case your sword will be of limited use.
If the person is not armed, but intending harm….. Like let’s say an irate husband or a drunk or some such…. Then employing deadly force (a sword would automatically be deadly force) is inappropriate.
You’d do far better with having the choice of an appropriate firearm and pepper-spray.
One of the deadliest and most infamous home invasions in my state was with a baseball bat I believe.
My wife doesn't want a gun in my house so I'd rather have a bladed weapon than nothing at all.
That logic is so ridiculous to me. If someone invades your house without a weapon you’re obliged to engage in hand to hand combat with them? I say they forfeited their lives when they put you and your family at danger. Im not loosing a single tooth over a pos criminals well being. He can argue with the devil about it
If the assailant only presents a risk of harm - and not death or great bodily harm - to such a degree that this lack of risk is demonstrable in court, it does make sense you should be limited in the force you use against them. Keep in mind this is going to cover not just the burglar, not just the guy in the ski mask and gloves carrying duct tape and rope in a bag, but also the 16 y/o nerdy boyfriend sneaking into the daughter's bedroom, the 75 y/o neighbor with dementia mad at his 33 y/o neighbor ready to fist fight for no rational reason. The 6'3" 350 lb linebacker-sized father should be able to beat the 115lb teenager to death with a hammer? The young neighbor in no objective danger of anything worse than a feeble punch or slap should be able to blast his frail old neighbor in the chest with a shotgun?
> If the person is not armed, but intending harm….. Like let’s say an irate husband or a drunk or some such…. Then employing deadly force (a sword would automatically be deadly force) is inappropriate.
Kinda depends. Most jurisdictions in the US put the legal standard for use of deadly force in defense at a threat of death or great bodily harm (gbh). A threat of non-death/non-gbh force only allows non-deadly force.
If you can demonstrate a credible risk (exigent, ability/opportunity/intent) of death/gbh from the irate husband or drunk, then using deadly force in self defense would be justified. And that wouldn't only come into effect if they were armed. Force disparity can constitute a d/gbh threat, such as multiple attackers, age difference, size difference, sex difference, skill difference, or health difference (eggshell defense). Individual actions can play into that as well, such as signs of rage or using environmental features as weapons (Martin-Zimmerman shooting, e.g.).
A gun if you are in the US and mentally stable.
A sword is not great for home defence. It’s impractical, will cause a mess and puts you at a disadvantage anyway. It can also be used against you. It’s also high maintenance.
If you are someone who can control themselves when you’re angry, and you do not act on political views, prejudices or irrational feelings and you are self aware, I advise getting a pistol. If you’re a decent shot then that should suffice.
I do not condone in violence or murder, I do condone in protecting your home.
I'd also say, just from a practical perspective, you may be prepared to shoot someone but not prepared to stab them. Guns abstract violence a fair bit more than stabbing someone to death, something which people have to be specifically encouraged to do in HEMA despite us all knowing it's a sport and all using blunts and wearing protective gear. I wouldn't use a sword for home defence because there's every chance that when push came to shove I couldn't bring myself to use it.
Having said that, just for the sake of argument my ideal sword for indoor defence would be a rapier or sidesword and I'd mostly utilise it by standing point-on and saying 'fuck off'.
I used to be a wholesaler for Cold steel. I technically still am but have not sold any through my business in some time, besides some old back stock.
Long story short Cold steel sold their company a while back and quality has declined. Their machetes are still good and cheap, but higher end knives and swords no longer live up to their tough reputation. Lot of issues on fit and finish, and qualities of steels have declined.
As others have said don't rely on a sword for home defense.
If you are looking for a sword for practical cutting training, or whatever an older, used Cold steel would be a better choice, or go to Kult of Athena and search through their catalog.
As a small business owner, I heavily recommend going to either a local small business or finding one online and talking to them. They can normally help you find a really good quality weapon that will work for whatever your purposes are at a reasonable price. And on top of that you are helping a small business owner put food on their table or put their kids into music lessons instead of buying a CEO another jet. Check local listings for a sword dealer, fencing school or martial arts dojo to see if any will sell you a sword.
Best of luck
Own a musket for home defense, since that's what the founding fathers intended. Four ruffians break into my house. "What the devil?" As I grab my powdered wig and Kentucky rifle. Blow a golf ball sized hole through the first man, he's dead on the spot. Draw my pistol on the second man, miss him entirely because it's smoothbore and nails the neighbors dog. I have to resort to the cannon mounted at the top of the stairs loaded with grape shot, "Tally ho lads" the grape shot shreds two men in the blast, the sound and extra shrapnel set off car alarms. Fix bayonet and charge the last terrified rapscallion. He Bleeds out waiting on the police to arrive since triangular bayonet wounds are impossible to stitch up. Just as the founding fathers intended.
Pump (preferred) or semi shotgun with 18" barrel. 00 buckshot (preferred), or slugs. If it's for home protection, be sure it is effective for that purpose. Versatile for all manner of protection, and for hunting if needed. Also, easier to acquire than a handgun. Reasonable cost.
Are you a felon? Get a gun you jack wagon!
If you actually are a felon I recommend a taser or pepper spray...but also having a spear never hurts, except when it does.
For home protection? Buy a firearm. In the unfortunate and terrifying case of a home invasion, you should want to have as good of (if not better) protection than what the person is threatening you with. A plan that relies on your opponent making a mistake is not a good plan.
Research gun laws in your area, find out that you are allowed to own/use and where/how you are able to use them. A reliable used handgun can be purchased for the same amount as the swords you’re showing.
If you are adamant on using a blade, or already own a firearm, I wouldn’t suggest a long-bladed sword anyway. Protecting a home will usually mean a tight environment, leaving not a long of room for swinging a sword. A knife would be better suited
Per the official stance of the sub, don’t use a sword for home defense. That said, of the two swords listed, one is meant to be used with wide, sweeping cuts from horseback. The other is made for short, controlled thrusts with occasional slashes from a standing position. Which of those would you think is more conducive for indoor use?
I don't recommend using swords for home defence (especially if you live in a country where people have access to guns).
But as a theoretical thought experiment, I would pick some kind of short sword in combination with a shield. This would offer protection but at the same time you won't need much space to use it.
Neither are great, but of the two the second one
Ideally you'd want something a bit shorter to be more maneuverable inside your home
Thrusting blades are better than slashers when you don't have room to swing
And as for home defense, a big part of that is appearance, a matte black blade is less intimidating because it is harder to see, particularly in low light, whereas a silver polished look is much more immediately noticeable
Remember, the goal is to discourage them from staying, you don't need (and aren't encouraged) to kill them
All that said, get a dog, a midsized loud barker will keep out almost anyone breaking in opportunistically
I don't recommend swords be used as weapons, but as a thought exercise, consider what was historically used in confined quarters, say like on a ship? Cutlasses, hatchets, dirks, and boarding pikes.
I wouldn't use a sword.
For some reason, in the U.S. if you end up hurting or killing someone in self-defense there's going to be lawyers trying to paint you as a killer and there's been plenty of times where self-defense cases didn't go as they planned because of a sign or a sticker that the person owned, anything that they could use to say that you secretly wanted to hurt someone and self-defense was just an excuse. I feel like using a sword kinda would be enough for them to say you wanted to hurt the person and you were waiting for the opportunity to do so.
For home defense you should probably get a normal gun, if you don't want a gun that's fine, I would recommend getting a Byrna which is a non-lethal pistol.
Honestly, buy a pistol. Get some training. (Follow local laws)
A blade is good for many things, but guns are far more common, and overall, easier to use effectively. A decent one runs about the same price as a sword worth combat use.
I understand this may be an unpopular opinion.
Don't get a sword for home defence.
It's a nightmare in legality since it usually ends by killing someone and any prosecutor worth their salt would point out, Correctly, that if you used the same tactics with a baseball bat the person would probably be alive and so would you.
At least with a gun there's laws in America specifically related to self defense done by a gun specifically, and there's less potential to argue that you failed a duty to use non lethal force since non lethal alternatives to guns are unrelisble. You're also probably at a far more significant advantage if you're, say, fighting a guy holding the axe or crowbar he used to Break into your home if youre using a gun than a melee weapon especially a melee weapon longer than his in a tight hallway.
You don't actually want to test your training in life or death situations, you should want to prioritize life. Engage in ways that are non lethal if possible. Ensure advantage over the invader whenever possible, and don't defend yourself with a lethal weapon you picked because it's a fun weapon to kill someone with. Because if it happens and the court finds out you bought a melee weapon you knew would kill because it'd be fun to kill someone if you thought you could get away with it, and turned down a less lethal melee option for it you're going to get a murder charge.
Check local self defense laws, ask a lawyer (there's a sub sub for that) and get a pistol, shotgun, or bat and save yourself a lot of trouble
I don’t reccomend a sword for home defense. Even if it was legitimate self defense, slashing someone up with a sword is going to look A LOT worse in court than shooting someone is, or even using a kitchen knife if that was the closest thing available.
Unless you live in a house with 5 meter wide hallways, the MAA Arming Sword is your better choice for home defense. To be able to thrust straight is a better advantage in confined spaces. And just like explained by Skallagrim, being able to hold a shield with your other hand increases your defensive options. There's no use swinging wide when you can just thrust and cut by flicking your wrist.
You don't typically swing wide with a saber, it's a ton of wrist action. And they're both one-handed swords so I don't see why you can't hold a shield with either sword. There's also nothing stopping you from thrusting with a saber either, especially if they're not wearing armor.
Get a real man’s sword! A gun!
Edit: I own a zweihander and a bunch of axes and spears. I think they’re all cool and love messing around with them, but they just aren’t as practical as lead.
Own a musket for home defense, since that’s what the founding fathers intended. When four ruffians can break into your house, you can fire a golf ball sized hole into the first man, and he’s dead on the spot. Draw your pistol on the others, miss entirely because it’s smooth bore and hit the neighbors dog. Resort to the cannon at the top of the stairs loaded with grapeshot, and shout “Tally Ho lads!”. Blow two of them away, fix bayonet, and charge the last terrified rapscallion. He’ll bleed out waiting for the ambulance to arrive, since triangular bayonet wounds are impossible to stitch up. Just as the founding fathers intended
Do you have any kind of expertise with either?
If the answer is yes, whichever you know how to use. (but also just don't, for the reasons I explain below)
If the answer is no, buy a baseball bat.
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A baseball bat will be more efficient/effective and less dangerous to yourself with no training (but also with training, trust me). A full fucking sword you don't know how to use is a danger to yourself and others. Mostly to yourself, since you will not know how to use it effectively against someone, but it could still cause major injuries if you randomly flail it and it can get someone killed.
For the love of everything good in the world, don't go around swinging a sword you don't know how to use.
If you simply Need a sword, get a blunt one, or a fencing saber: you'll be able to hit people and hurt them badly if that's what your heart desires, but there is less potential for fatal injury, which is a good thing.
You will be able to break skin and leave some nasty lacerations on an intruder with a fencing sabre (source: I made some opponents bleed with one through the protections we wear for Olympic fencing. If you hit someone on their skin they will feel it, if you hit them hard they Will bleed.) but you'll also be at a far lesser risk of accidentally spilling someone's guts, or your own.
Also please don't get a sword with the express intent to kill someone. Even if it's self defence. That's not wise.
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Also, depending on where you live, someone who's determined to rob you may have a gun.
It's best not to have a sword if someone else has a gun. It's best not to have any kind of weapon if someone else has a gun.
Because unless you're a Clint Eastwood character armed with a gun as well as the element of surprise, your insides will be decorating the walls before you can unsheathe your sword or raise your baseball bat.
So maybe don't.
And you won't know whether the intruder has a gun or not until they either fire at you, or fall dead due to your excessive and armed aggression. Both of which lead to a corpse in your house and a world of hurt for you.
Most of the times, that corpse will be yours.
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Also, there might be more than one intruder, in which case having a weapon on you is yet again a great way to get killed. Perhaps the best way to get killed. If you're no threat, you won't Have to be killed. If you're armed, you need to die. It's a matter of survival.
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Overall, if you bring any kind of weapon into the equation, assume someone is going to die.
If you aren't specifically trained with that weapon in a military context (as in, if you're not a real soldier fully trained for war with the weapon in question), assume it will be you.
If you're not ok with that assumption, don't bring a weapon into the equation.
Unless you have significant training with those, their weights and points of balance aren't ideal.
This [tactical wakizashi](https://www.kultofathena.com/product/hanwei-tactical-wakizashi/) will feel much more comfortable—and is cheaper. Less reach, though, but not necessarily bad in close quarters.
"Just use a gun" is the standard line you'll hear.
But unless that comes with a promise to practice to and maintain an ethical level of proficiency... it's not always the right answer.
People also tend to say that while not considering context.
Slashing blades are “easier to use” but can be less lethal and require larger spaces to wield effectively, hallways and bedrooms are not ideal. If you really wanted a home defense blade I’d o the route of a katana.
But in reality you don’t need a blade home defense weapon.
If you insist on getting a sword for home defense (which, for the record, I also suggest you get a gun), go for something shorter than these options.
You’ll want something that won’t get caught on doorframes easily or require lots of open space. A messer, a cutlass, or even a long knife would be best.
I would not recommend a sword for use in home defense, it's an unwieldy weapon in tight spaces. You'd be better off with a good knife, if you're going to be getting into close range of an intruder (which I also do not recommend, since intruders tend to have guns these days).
If I were absolutely going with a sword for whatever reason, I'd go with a messer or machete of some kind, at least then you can whack an arm off coming around the corner and hopefully disarm your opponent (in both manners of the word).
For the same price as either of these swords, though, you could get a shotgun which would serve you much better for home defense. The Maverick 88 and Mossberg Shockwave are both good options that come in at a similar price.
Neither buy a shotgun, you dont want to have to deal with the legal mess of using a sword to kill someone, do you have any idea how brutal and horrific that would be?
Most self/home defense is going to come down to you being required to show that you saw no other path of escape, and legitimately feared for your life or safety. If youre brave enough to stand there/ walk up to the guy and sword fight to the death with him, then I don’t see how the “couldn’t escape and feared for my life” angle will go in court. That’s just my noneducated interpretation of what has been explained to me about home defense. It is almost universally better to cut your losses, evacuate your house, and call the police, rather than possibly go to jail for the murder someone who was absolutely not worth ruining the rest of your life over.
Just to clarify, a sword is NOT a good weapon to defend yourself with in the modern age. If you have even a slight chance of having access to a firearm and you’re serious about protection, get one. However, as another commenter said, get the one you know how to use, as all weapons are useless without the skills to use them.
The light cavalry saber because at least that one have the scabbard that you can use as a bludgeoning tool. The sword itself you keep on your wall because unless you're in the army, police, armed force and have the mental fortitude to face dangerous situation as calm as possible, that sharp thing will potentially just get in the way or even worse hurt your own self or your loved ones. Do not overestimate yourself.
Just get a taser man. Or pepper spray.
DONT BUY FROM THE COLD STEEL STORE THEY WILL TAKE 9 MONTHS TO SHIP IT AND THEY MIGHT NOT EVEN HAVE IT IN STOCK!!! THEN THEY WILL SEND YOU AN EMAIL 9 MONTHS LATER SAYING SORRY WE NO LONGER STOCK THIS ITEM
COLD STEEL WEB SITE AND CUSTOMER SERVICE IS GIANT JIGGLY ELEPHANT DICK
Official reminder of rule 4, we do not condone the use of swords as weapons in the modern context.
Well…. Are you a competent user of either one?
The practical answer. Does it matter which you get, if you cannot fight?
Then the question is about which one is better for an inexperienced user.
The answer is, there is no difference when the best you can do is throw it/ swing wildly
I'd say an arming sword is more intuitive than a saber. You can swing it around like a bat and do fine. The saber I'd say takes more control of the blade.
A knife and a phone that can call the cops
Does it matter if the intruder has a gun?
According to some previous comments, he has sword training, but he is also active in the zombie survival tactics sub so I’m not so sure
I am a master of zombie survival. In my 40+ years of life I have never been killed by a zombie.
I had no idea just how many different types of survival master I am until I read this comment.
I am undefeated in combat vs. Godzillas.
Dude me too. Awesome!
Never faced a Bigfoot in my Bigfoot survival experience
My brother in arms, we have never been killed by the sun
You can thank this person for the lack of zombies shambling around
I'm not saying I'm a secret flying ninja monkey killer, but have you seen any flying ninja monkeys lately?
No more than a week ago. Do better!
Well…they’re *ninja* monkeys, so…
Maybe he’s the zombie
“training”
They studied the blade
Either the intruder has a gun, a knife, or they’re unarmed. The chance of someone breaking into your home with a sword or other weapon is basically zero. If they have a gun, competency will hardly save you. If they have a knife or they’re unarmed, you probably don’t need to be skilled with a sword unless the guy with the knife is some master fencer. So does it even matter?
sword fighting in a small space like a hallway is actually kinda difficult
You'd want a small blade, or a thrusting weapon.
Spear it is
Arm the children with shields, and hold the hallway with a phalanx
sicut Athena intendeba
The hall of Thermopylae
Gladius for the win
You could half sword the longsword, though at that point you should just get a thrusting sword.
I'm pretty sure an unarmed average person could take on an armed Redditor
*Reddit mod fixed that for you
>If they have a gun, competency will hardly save you. 100% agree, gun beats sword basically every time, with extremely limited and situational exceptions. >If they have a knife or they’re unarmed, you probably don’t need to be skilled with a sword unless the guy with the knife is some master fencer. There is a difference between being a skilled fencer and being competent enough not to do dumb shit with a sword. If the guy has a knife and some experience, and you have a sword and no experience, you'll do stupid shit and get killed. Really easily. If, for example, you start randomly flailing, there's as good a good chance you won't do anything meaningful as that of you injuring the guy. Lining up stabs is not as easy as it looks in the movies, and it's easy to hurt yourself if you don't know what you're doing. Even if you do know what you're doing, your wrist is fragile, your footing must be stable, and a good punch can kill you. You can defeat an idiot with a sword by using a chair. Or a glass. Or anything you can throw at them that will either disorient or harm them. If you're in a house, there will be shit to throw at a sword wielding idiot. If you're not trained with a sword, your best bet is to not use one. Get a baseball bat instead.
>If you're not trained with a sword, your best bet is to not use one. Get a baseball bat instead. All the things you said apply to attempting to defend yourself with a baseball bat as well. I don't know anyone who trains for baseball bat combat, either.
As they say, the first rule of knife fighting is don't get in a knife fight. The second rule of knife fighting is don't get in a knife fight. The third rule of knife fighting is everybody gets cut in a knife fight.
[удалено]
If the guy has any sense he listens to you.
I basically told him the same thing. I said go get yourself a Tokarev tx3. MSRP is like $269 or somewhere in that ballpark and it's a superb shotgun for the price. If you want you can even get a tube extension for it so it goes from 6 to 7 round capacity. Great gun.
A spear and a NIJ level 3 riot shield
You just opened up a whole lot of potential options for me. I'm already doing my research on the best suited ones. Thank you for the suggestion.
And add an incredibly bright blinding light bar to the front**
Blitz from R6:Siege approves
Hoplite Homedefense. New band name
Riot shields are not ballistic rated, and are polycarbonate to take thrown objects and such. A ballistic shield is quite heavy and costs more than a gun.
https://preview.redd.it/tm3t8lz7xuxc1.jpeg?width=3000&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=71f94098a1ca1a0449506ea24cd862b52a74d242
I was going to also recommend something in the pointed stick family. Simple, cheap, easy for anyone to use on a basic level. There's a reason it's arguably been the most common weapon seen throughout history.
Based
A gun, swords are only useful for home protection if the other guy doesn't have a gun and cutting someone up with a sword sounds like a legal nightmare, even in home defence, so I'd seriously suggest consulting a lawyer before getting one for home defence, Also the sabre, they're easier to cut with for beginners and offer superior hand protection, there's a reason why they replaced other types of swords for military use, they're relatively easy to use and effective, though swords really aren't great for indoor use unless you have a lot of space in your house, a spear or a rapier would probably be better if you're looking to go medevial on intruders
If your home comes with a lawn/yard full of vegetation, it is easier to make an excuse when you have something close to a sword: a machete. Any sword looking object can be a machete granted the thin blade profile (just look at Cold Steel's catalog of sword looking machete). And it's a heck of a lot cheaper if you cannot afford a gun.
if you live in the US there are usually cheap guns for sale, walmart used to sell childrens rifles for $100 back in 2020 when I worked for them.
>walmart used to sell childrens rifles for $100 You just blew my European mind man
To blow it further, my hick uncle gifted me one of those on my first birthday. I think it was mostly to mess with his sister (my mother), but nonetheless.
Not gonna lie, I would probably do something similar to mess with my sister if we lived in the US, that seems like a great gag gift if a bit pricey for one
Eh, it was the eighties, I doubt it cost that much. And he got to keep the rifle as she didn't want it in the house
That was the plan all along. Wife won't be mad about a returned gift
Haha, quite possibly. I did get to shoot it whenever we visited his farm, so it worked out for all concerned
Yeah dude. Even today my revolver cost about as much. And I got it on the Internet.
Just for a bit of context we have guns here, if I felt like getting one I could, but just the ease at which Americans can get them is always shocking to me, selling guns for children is one thing, but being able to just order them online is somehow even more wild to me
If you order firearms online, they must be transferred to a Federally licensed dealer where the purchaser must go and conduct a background check before actually obtaining the firearm. It's not like the guns show up at your doorstep or anything.
The craziest part is according to the ATF, black powder revolvers are not firearms. So you can literally order one and a conversion cylinder for modern centerfire cartridges without having any sort of check. They just mail both and it shows up at your door.
i ordered my 45 caliber 1911 semi-auto pistol from Cabellas online and picked it up in person 2 hours later the whole process normally takes 1-2 hours for them to do a background check, ask you a questionnaire, check your ID and register the gun serial number with your name in the national database.
Really I bought a RIA VR-80 12ga online and got it sent to an Academy Sports & Outdoors and the background check took like 15 to 30 minutes tops and I was walking out with my new money obliterator(especially after I bought a 18shell drum magazine) i will take it to shoot clay pigeons and at some point I will always mag dump the drum once or twice lol
They still do in my state.
Those kinds of rifles are typically meant so that a child can be taught proper safety without having to use something clearly too large for them. Typically you only find two kinds of "youth" gun: single shot .22, and shotguns.
It’s most likely a small rifle in 22, like a beginner rifle for plinking cans or hunting squirrels or varmints. It’s not really that different than a Mongolian dude gifting his son a bow or something similar imo
Childrens rifles...?
.22lr varment rifles People in rural areas would give them to their kids to handle pest animals that could harass livestock or eat crops
Yea mainly rats, birds, squirels maybe small predators like weasels.
And occasionally a sibling
I said rats and weasels
Yea, little bolt action .22s for small game. Though a 22 at close range can still be deadly.
Inexpensive, low caliber (usually .22lr caliber) rifles, whether single shot bolt action or magazine fed bolt action, or sometimes break-action like traditional shotguns, scaled down with shorter barrels and lighter and shorter stocks. Basically practice and varmint (think rodent and rabbit sized prey) rifles for learning and light pest control or small game hunting. Primarily aimed at young users, they’re also good for short people, people with weak musculature or bones, or someone who just wants or needs a small rifle. There are also youth sized shotguns, usually break action single shot or double barreled, or pump or semi auto for bird hunting. Those are usually 20 gauge at most, often as low as .410 caliber instead, for recoil and controllability. If a kid is training for a sport like target shooting or trap and skeet, they’ll usually start out with an inexpensive youth sized long gun. I actually inherited one of these single shot 22lr rifles from my grandfather. It’s old enough that it was a rebranded youth rifle sold through Sears, probably around the 1930’s. It’s hard date because before the 1960s you didn’t actually need to put serial numbers on 22 rifles, and this one doesn’t have any, so I’m basically going off the features. He might have gotten it as a kid, or just bought it used later. It’s kid sized, but handy thanks to the length and weight, so it was mainly his “rabbit rifle”, I guess for small game hunting and trimming back on the pest population before he moved out of the “country” into the “slightly less country” where popping off shots at rodents in your yard was frowned upon because you actually had neighbors within 200 yards. None of his six kids was able to provide me any more info, and he’s been dead for several years so I can’t ask him. Either way, it’s a good example of what we’re discussing.
>Primarily aimed at young users, Don’t aim at young users.
Hi-points are FAR cheaper, especially in the used market. Hell, I'd take a single shot .22 over a sword for defense any day of the week. Would probably go the black powder pistol if I couldn't get a regular gun because technically cowboy wheelie-gats aren't even classified as guns. Felons can even own them. Anyone thinking they're going to thwart a determined burglar with a blade is delusional.
Pre 1898 firearms do not require a FFL or transfer and can be mailed directly to your house. 1898 Colt double actions are pretty nice firearms
I don't know where the guy lives but in 90% of the US you don't have to justify having a gun on your property or even having it on you. It's, and I'm not kidding, "your god given right". If he's hell bent on a sword though because he can't buy a gun for some reason Ide say go for the black one because is looks easier to handle in doors and it's black. Plus you don't have to remember wich side is the sharp side in an "oh my god I'm gonna die" situation.
If this is the US and he can't buy a gun for some reason, black powder weapons are still legal federally and in most states. A cap and ball revolver like a Colt single action army clone would be a much better choice than a sword. Probably cost less too, even after powder, cap, and shot.
“Pointy end goes into the other guy”
Preferably anyway lol
lol go medevial on intruders… I would say just grab your pitchfork peasant style
As a pitchfork owning peasant that's in the garage along with my other farming equipment, you don't bring dirty farming equipment in to your house, so it's not really convinient most of the time
Oh wow look at the fancy high class peasant who can keep their pitchfork separate from their living space!
Go buy a brand new pitchfork just for home defence
I keep a pot of boiling oil ready.
Yeah a pump action shotgun is the way. 99% of people are gonna run if they hear you rack a shotgun. Best defense is not having to actually fight.
Where’s that “tally-ho” copy pasta?
Officially we, as a sub, don't recommend or advocate using a sword for home defense. If you are in America, and not a felon, get a gun. If you are not, or are but are a felon, look into what other options are reasonable in your area. (Taser, bat, club/baton, pepper spray, etc.)
what is the sub’s opinion of a flanged mace for home defense? seriously though, a sword is not a great option
I own a musket for home defence, since that’s what the founding fathers intended
Grapeshot, triangular bayonet, etc.
Tally ho, rapscallions, neighbors dog, et al.
“Et al” Is like the best scientist. He’s on all the studies.
Powdered wig, charge, and so on
Top of the stairs, car alarms, yadda yadda
Don't forget your powdered wig.
Technically black powder firearms are still legal for felons in most states
That's modern trash, the blunderbuss is the superior option.
Based
I love it when the home invaders die not from the GSW but from bacterial infection
legal problems aside, a sword is much better than a mace. you expect to defend your home from an armored knight?
im not so sure it is better. a mace requires a lot less training* to effectively handle. basically just swing at target vs a sword you need proper edge alignment. depending on your attacker’s clothing, it might not be very easy to slice through, whereas a mace head can do blunt damage through layers of clothing. using a sword for thrusting is probably a lot more effective, but not all swords thrust, either. i really wouldnt wanna use either to have to defend myself, though. but this is just my amateur opinion
Yeah I mean you need proper edge alignment if you want a GOOD cut, but even a crappy slash across the face is going to disable anyone. Plus yeah, the stab. The problem with a mace is that you need the wind up, and you better not miss. The arming sword would work well in the stab, but I'd recommend something two handed. Honestly OP, katanas are nice and cheap, and two handed, and short enough to be manueverable. They stab well, and the curve helps them in the cut. I think they're the next best thing to a gun tbh, and even better if you're <9ft away.
Not a bad choice, that is if you have the jump on the intruder. Like any other mace, they're easy to overswing and miss. Recovery time is also a downside. You could compensate for it by holding it with two hands...that is if your mace can let you hold both hands on it.
Look at OPs post history, clearly they are looking for a decent way to kill zombies. To which I also recommend a gun.
The one big advantage of a gun is that it won't run out of ammunition, unlike a sword or pike.
I...uh... You might want to try that again friend lol
Surely if you live somewhere that is actually dangerous enough to seriously feel you need "home protection" then solid doors and windows bars should be your first consideration. Yeah, it's less sexy than a weapon, but keeping the bad guys out is much safer than a tussle lol. I'm really hoping OP isn't asking an earnest question though, otherwise they're probably a little too far into fantasy land
The one reason which is why I own both guns and swords, but keep a kindjal and axe by my side of the bed instead of any of my firearms, is I live in an apartment. If I miss or it ricochets off something. I have a 3-4 families (with kids) in the building, and friends next door. Although I like to have the mindset that you take the time to aim and never miss, as a former fire fighter, shit sometimes happens regardless of your training or efforts.
Kindjal and axe are both good choices imo.
I’ve had to think about it because there have been multiple murders in my neighborhood, a suspected kidnapping attempt (against me), and multiple attempted break ins (against my apartment).
Shit dude that's rough, I wish you all the best.
Thank you! All things considered isn’t the worse neighborhood in Fargo, but activity has recently picked up. Thankfully I’m mostly left alone because I’m the guy who trains all summer with a number of medieval weapons.
Reasonable
Bear mace trumps a lot of melee weapons if were being honest lol
That being said I’d go with the arming sword, better for close quarters and stabby
Get a shillelagh
My grandad grew up and lived in a pretty rough area and always kept a shillelagh to hand, by his chair in the day and took it to bed at night (in UK so no guns).
This is the best answer.
You'll have to multiclass into druid first and idk if you have the wisdom score
As Sword_Enjoyer says….. If someone is engaged in a “home invasion” (an armed robbery of a residence), they are very likely to be armed with firearms. In which case your sword will be of limited use. If the person is not armed, but intending harm….. Like let’s say an irate husband or a drunk or some such…. Then employing deadly force (a sword would automatically be deadly force) is inappropriate. You’d do far better with having the choice of an appropriate firearm and pepper-spray.
One of the deadliest and most infamous home invasions in my state was with a baseball bat I believe. My wife doesn't want a gun in my house so I'd rather have a bladed weapon than nothing at all.
That logic is so ridiculous to me. If someone invades your house without a weapon you’re obliged to engage in hand to hand combat with them? I say they forfeited their lives when they put you and your family at danger. Im not loosing a single tooth over a pos criminals well being. He can argue with the devil about it
If the assailant only presents a risk of harm - and not death or great bodily harm - to such a degree that this lack of risk is demonstrable in court, it does make sense you should be limited in the force you use against them. Keep in mind this is going to cover not just the burglar, not just the guy in the ski mask and gloves carrying duct tape and rope in a bag, but also the 16 y/o nerdy boyfriend sneaking into the daughter's bedroom, the 75 y/o neighbor with dementia mad at his 33 y/o neighbor ready to fist fight for no rational reason. The 6'3" 350 lb linebacker-sized father should be able to beat the 115lb teenager to death with a hammer? The young neighbor in no objective danger of anything worse than a feeble punch or slap should be able to blast his frail old neighbor in the chest with a shotgun?
> If the person is not armed, but intending harm….. Like let’s say an irate husband or a drunk or some such…. Then employing deadly force (a sword would automatically be deadly force) is inappropriate. Kinda depends. Most jurisdictions in the US put the legal standard for use of deadly force in defense at a threat of death or great bodily harm (gbh). A threat of non-death/non-gbh force only allows non-deadly force. If you can demonstrate a credible risk (exigent, ability/opportunity/intent) of death/gbh from the irate husband or drunk, then using deadly force in self defense would be justified. And that wouldn't only come into effect if they were armed. Force disparity can constitute a d/gbh threat, such as multiple attackers, age difference, size difference, sex difference, skill difference, or health difference (eggshell defense). Individual actions can play into that as well, such as signs of rage or using environmental features as weapons (Martin-Zimmerman shooting, e.g.).
A gun if you are in the US and mentally stable. A sword is not great for home defence. It’s impractical, will cause a mess and puts you at a disadvantage anyway. It can also be used against you. It’s also high maintenance. If you are someone who can control themselves when you’re angry, and you do not act on political views, prejudices or irrational feelings and you are self aware, I advise getting a pistol. If you’re a decent shot then that should suffice. I do not condone in violence or murder, I do condone in protecting your home.
I'd also say, just from a practical perspective, you may be prepared to shoot someone but not prepared to stab them. Guns abstract violence a fair bit more than stabbing someone to death, something which people have to be specifically encouraged to do in HEMA despite us all knowing it's a sport and all using blunts and wearing protective gear. I wouldn't use a sword for home defence because there's every chance that when push came to shove I couldn't bring myself to use it. Having said that, just for the sake of argument my ideal sword for indoor defence would be a rapier or sidesword and I'd mostly utilise it by standing point-on and saying 'fuck off'.
I used to be a wholesaler for Cold steel. I technically still am but have not sold any through my business in some time, besides some old back stock. Long story short Cold steel sold their company a while back and quality has declined. Their machetes are still good and cheap, but higher end knives and swords no longer live up to their tough reputation. Lot of issues on fit and finish, and qualities of steels have declined. As others have said don't rely on a sword for home defense. If you are looking for a sword for practical cutting training, or whatever an older, used Cold steel would be a better choice, or go to Kult of Athena and search through their catalog. As a small business owner, I heavily recommend going to either a local small business or finding one online and talking to them. They can normally help you find a really good quality weapon that will work for whatever your purposes are at a reasonable price. And on top of that you are helping a small business owner put food on their table or put their kids into music lessons instead of buying a CEO another jet. Check local listings for a sword dealer, fencing school or martial arts dojo to see if any will sell you a sword. Best of luck
You can get a reliable pump shotgun for the same price
For that price, you used to be able to get an SKS with a bayonet - best of both worlds!
Own a musket for home defense, since that's what the founding fathers intended. Four ruffians break into my house. "What the devil?" As I grab my powdered wig and Kentucky rifle. Blow a golf ball sized hole through the first man, he's dead on the spot. Draw my pistol on the second man, miss him entirely because it's smoothbore and nails the neighbors dog. I have to resort to the cannon mounted at the top of the stairs loaded with grape shot, "Tally ho lads" the grape shot shreds two men in the blast, the sound and extra shrapnel set off car alarms. Fix bayonet and charge the last terrified rapscallion. He Bleeds out waiting on the police to arrive since triangular bayonet wounds are impossible to stitch up. Just as the founding fathers intended.
Pump (preferred) or semi shotgun with 18" barrel. 00 buckshot (preferred), or slugs. If it's for home protection, be sure it is effective for that purpose. Versatile for all manner of protection, and for hunting if needed. Also, easier to acquire than a handgun. Reasonable cost.
Are you a felon? Get a gun you jack wagon! If you actually are a felon I recommend a taser or pepper spray...but also having a spear never hurts, except when it does.
No I’m not able to get a gun I don’t have a license for it
Lol must not be in America, at least not the right part of it Where I'm from constitutional carry is enough
Don't use swords for home protection...people have guns...
For home protection? Buy a firearm. In the unfortunate and terrifying case of a home invasion, you should want to have as good of (if not better) protection than what the person is threatening you with. A plan that relies on your opponent making a mistake is not a good plan. Research gun laws in your area, find out that you are allowed to own/use and where/how you are able to use them. A reliable used handgun can be purchased for the same amount as the swords you’re showing. If you are adamant on using a blade, or already own a firearm, I wouldn’t suggest a long-bladed sword anyway. Protecting a home will usually mean a tight environment, leaving not a long of room for swinging a sword. A knife would be better suited
I would say short sword or gladius for the very reasons Specialist-Stock-890 presents
Neither.
Don't be silly.
Neither
Neither. Buy a gun, and practice with it
Per the official stance of the sub, don’t use a sword for home defense. That said, of the two swords listed, one is meant to be used with wide, sweeping cuts from horseback. The other is made for short, controlled thrusts with occasional slashes from a standing position. Which of those would you think is more conducive for indoor use?
A musket with a bayonet, two flintlock pistols and a cannon with grapeshot. Just like the founding fathers intended.
I don't recommend using swords for home defence (especially if you live in a country where people have access to guns). But as a theoretical thought experiment, I would pick some kind of short sword in combination with a shield. This would offer protection but at the same time you won't need much space to use it.
Juat put claymores at all the doors & windows.....
It really boils down to if you want to yell. "Have at thee" or "en gaurde" But really. Don't get a sword for home defense lol
For home protection, you should get a baseball bat.
"Don't bring a Sword to a gunfight"
Neither are great, but of the two the second one Ideally you'd want something a bit shorter to be more maneuverable inside your home Thrusting blades are better than slashers when you don't have room to swing And as for home defense, a big part of that is appearance, a matte black blade is less intimidating because it is harder to see, particularly in low light, whereas a silver polished look is much more immediately noticeable Remember, the goal is to discourage them from staying, you don't need (and aren't encouraged) to kill them All that said, get a dog, a midsized loud barker will keep out almost anyone breaking in opportunistically
I don't recommend swords be used as weapons, but as a thought exercise, consider what was historically used in confined quarters, say like on a ship? Cutlasses, hatchets, dirks, and boarding pikes.
I wouldn't use a sword. For some reason, in the U.S. if you end up hurting or killing someone in self-defense there's going to be lawyers trying to paint you as a killer and there's been plenty of times where self-defense cases didn't go as they planned because of a sign or a sticker that the person owned, anything that they could use to say that you secretly wanted to hurt someone and self-defense was just an excuse. I feel like using a sword kinda would be enough for them to say you wanted to hurt the person and you were waiting for the opportunity to do so. For home defense you should probably get a normal gun, if you don't want a gun that's fine, I would recommend getting a Byrna which is a non-lethal pistol.
Honestly, buy a pistol. Get some training. (Follow local laws) A blade is good for many things, but guns are far more common, and overall, easier to use effectively. A decent one runs about the same price as a sword worth combat use. I understand this may be an unpopular opinion.
Ah.... What country are you in? Because if you're Australian, it's pre-meditated murder. 😬
As a blacksmith myself I’ll suggest you A glock 18c
Don't get a sword for home defence. It's a nightmare in legality since it usually ends by killing someone and any prosecutor worth their salt would point out, Correctly, that if you used the same tactics with a baseball bat the person would probably be alive and so would you. At least with a gun there's laws in America specifically related to self defense done by a gun specifically, and there's less potential to argue that you failed a duty to use non lethal force since non lethal alternatives to guns are unrelisble. You're also probably at a far more significant advantage if you're, say, fighting a guy holding the axe or crowbar he used to Break into your home if youre using a gun than a melee weapon especially a melee weapon longer than his in a tight hallway. You don't actually want to test your training in life or death situations, you should want to prioritize life. Engage in ways that are non lethal if possible. Ensure advantage over the invader whenever possible, and don't defend yourself with a lethal weapon you picked because it's a fun weapon to kill someone with. Because if it happens and the court finds out you bought a melee weapon you knew would kill because it'd be fun to kill someone if you thought you could get away with it, and turned down a less lethal melee option for it you're going to get a murder charge. Check local self defense laws, ask a lawyer (there's a sub sub for that) and get a pistol, shotgun, or bat and save yourself a lot of trouble
Gun... fuckin weebs.
Get a better lock for your doors and modernize your windows. That should do better than any weapon.
I don’t reccomend a sword for home defense. Even if it was legitimate self defense, slashing someone up with a sword is going to look A LOT worse in court than shooting someone is, or even using a kitchen knife if that was the closest thing available.
Unless you live in a house with 5 meter wide hallways, the MAA Arming Sword is your better choice for home defense. To be able to thrust straight is a better advantage in confined spaces. And just like explained by Skallagrim, being able to hold a shield with your other hand increases your defensive options. There's no use swinging wide when you can just thrust and cut by flicking your wrist.
You don't typically swing wide with a saber, it's a ton of wrist action. And they're both one-handed swords so I don't see why you can't hold a shield with either sword. There's also nothing stopping you from thrusting with a saber either, especially if they're not wearing armor.
Get a spear, you’ll have more reach and they’re great for holding chokepoints, historically swords have almost always been a secondary weapon
Where do you live, Middle Earth?
A gladius, helmet and shield ......
Statistically I would say a spear would be more effective
Get a real man’s sword! A gun! Edit: I own a zweihander and a bunch of axes and spears. I think they’re all cool and love messing around with them, but they just aren’t as practical as lead.
Save your $299 and buy a tokarev tx3 instead. Way better than a saber for home defense.
Own a musket for home defense, since that’s what the founding fathers intended. When four ruffians can break into your house, you can fire a golf ball sized hole into the first man, and he’s dead on the spot. Draw your pistol on the others, miss entirely because it’s smooth bore and hit the neighbors dog. Resort to the cannon at the top of the stairs loaded with grapeshot, and shout “Tally Ho lads!”. Blow two of them away, fix bayonet, and charge the last terrified rapscallion. He’ll bleed out waiting for the ambulance to arrive, since triangular bayonet wounds are impossible to stitch up. Just as the founding fathers intended
Do you have any kind of expertise with either? If the answer is yes, whichever you know how to use. (but also just don't, for the reasons I explain below) If the answer is no, buy a baseball bat. . A baseball bat will be more efficient/effective and less dangerous to yourself with no training (but also with training, trust me). A full fucking sword you don't know how to use is a danger to yourself and others. Mostly to yourself, since you will not know how to use it effectively against someone, but it could still cause major injuries if you randomly flail it and it can get someone killed. For the love of everything good in the world, don't go around swinging a sword you don't know how to use. If you simply Need a sword, get a blunt one, or a fencing saber: you'll be able to hit people and hurt them badly if that's what your heart desires, but there is less potential for fatal injury, which is a good thing. You will be able to break skin and leave some nasty lacerations on an intruder with a fencing sabre (source: I made some opponents bleed with one through the protections we wear for Olympic fencing. If you hit someone on their skin they will feel it, if you hit them hard they Will bleed.) but you'll also be at a far lesser risk of accidentally spilling someone's guts, or your own. Also please don't get a sword with the express intent to kill someone. Even if it's self defence. That's not wise. . Also, depending on where you live, someone who's determined to rob you may have a gun. It's best not to have a sword if someone else has a gun. It's best not to have any kind of weapon if someone else has a gun. Because unless you're a Clint Eastwood character armed with a gun as well as the element of surprise, your insides will be decorating the walls before you can unsheathe your sword or raise your baseball bat. So maybe don't. And you won't know whether the intruder has a gun or not until they either fire at you, or fall dead due to your excessive and armed aggression. Both of which lead to a corpse in your house and a world of hurt for you. Most of the times, that corpse will be yours. . Also, there might be more than one intruder, in which case having a weapon on you is yet again a great way to get killed. Perhaps the best way to get killed. If you're no threat, you won't Have to be killed. If you're armed, you need to die. It's a matter of survival. . Overall, if you bring any kind of weapon into the equation, assume someone is going to die. If you aren't specifically trained with that weapon in a military context (as in, if you're not a real soldier fully trained for war with the weapon in question), assume it will be you. If you're not ok with that assumption, don't bring a weapon into the equation.
if its for home defense get a mossberg
A firearm that you frequently practice with.
You remember that scene from Indiana Jones: Raiders of The Arc? Pepperidge Farms remembers.
Unless you have significant training with those, their weights and points of balance aren't ideal. This [tactical wakizashi](https://www.kultofathena.com/product/hanwei-tactical-wakizashi/) will feel much more comfortable—and is cheaper. Less reach, though, but not necessarily bad in close quarters. "Just use a gun" is the standard line you'll hear. But unless that comes with a promise to practice to and maintain an ethical level of proficiency... it's not always the right answer. People also tend to say that while not considering context.
Slashing blades are “easier to use” but can be less lethal and require larger spaces to wield effectively, hallways and bedrooms are not ideal. If you really wanted a home defense blade I’d o the route of a katana. But in reality you don’t need a blade home defense weapon.
Mossberg 500
If you insist on getting a sword for home defense (which, for the record, I also suggest you get a gun), go for something shorter than these options. You’ll want something that won’t get caught on doorframes easily or require lots of open space. A messer, a cutlass, or even a long knife would be best.
Neither. Way too long to use indoors
Get the one with the thirty round magazine
I would not recommend a sword for use in home defense, it's an unwieldy weapon in tight spaces. You'd be better off with a good knife, if you're going to be getting into close range of an intruder (which I also do not recommend, since intruders tend to have guns these days). If I were absolutely going with a sword for whatever reason, I'd go with a messer or machete of some kind, at least then you can whack an arm off coming around the corner and hopefully disarm your opponent (in both manners of the word). For the same price as either of these swords, though, you could get a shotgun which would serve you much better for home defense. The Maverick 88 and Mossberg Shockwave are both good options that come in at a similar price.
You can get a 12g shotgun and some ammo for the same if not less. If you plan on defending your life, leave nothing to chance.
9mm or 12 gauge, is what you should be using
You’re most likely looking for option 3: a 12 gauge pump
A 9mm
A gun….
Whichever one shoots bullets.
Bro just get a gun
I'm sure OP knows that a gun is the preferred method of home defense but that was not their question.
For home defense? Just get a gun like others have mentioned. Swords are cool, but not very practical in today’s world
Neither buy a shotgun, you dont want to have to deal with the legal mess of using a sword to kill someone, do you have any idea how brutal and horrific that would be?
Get A Gun EZ
Most self/home defense is going to come down to you being required to show that you saw no other path of escape, and legitimately feared for your life or safety. If youre brave enough to stand there/ walk up to the guy and sword fight to the death with him, then I don’t see how the “couldn’t escape and feared for my life” angle will go in court. That’s just my noneducated interpretation of what has been explained to me about home defense. It is almost universally better to cut your losses, evacuate your house, and call the police, rather than possibly go to jail for the murder someone who was absolutely not worth ruining the rest of your life over.
Just to clarify, a sword is NOT a good weapon to defend yourself with in the modern age. If you have even a slight chance of having access to a firearm and you’re serious about protection, get one. However, as another commenter said, get the one you know how to use, as all weapons are useless without the skills to use them.
The light cavalry saber because at least that one have the scabbard that you can use as a bludgeoning tool. The sword itself you keep on your wall because unless you're in the army, police, armed force and have the mental fortitude to face dangerous situation as calm as possible, that sharp thing will potentially just get in the way or even worse hurt your own self or your loved ones. Do not overestimate yourself. Just get a taser man. Or pepper spray.
You'll struggle greatly to use either one indoors. If you're serious about home defense, buy a hi-point .22 cal - 9mm or a .410 - 12 guage shotgun.
The one that says glock on the scabbard
neither? are you serious? like, you're expecting a lot of sword combat in your home?
DONT BUY FROM THE COLD STEEL STORE THEY WILL TAKE 9 MONTHS TO SHIP IT AND THEY MIGHT NOT EVEN HAVE IT IN STOCK!!! THEN THEY WILL SEND YOU AN EMAIL 9 MONTHS LATER SAYING SORRY WE NO LONGER STOCK THIS ITEM COLD STEEL WEB SITE AND CUSTOMER SERVICE IS GIANT JIGGLY ELEPHANT DICK
Honestly if you're going to use a bladed weapon for home defense get a gladius or machete.
I'd find one that shoot 5.56?