What is the BEST SWORD for modern day self defense?

[@LordAfrocious]

"I kinda want to be longer than this, but this is certainly adequate." Every time I step out of the shower and look in the mirror.

[@penmaster003]

I love the idea of modern day self defense with a sword. It would definitely have a shock factor that would deter wrongdoers.

[@ronaldskeet9880]

If sword carrying was legal then the bad men would also carry swords, which is what happened in the past.

[@scottishwarrior3547]

Swords and machetes are not illegal, in Utah. but they are subject to tight restrictions and regulations in the interest of public safety. You may be required to obtain special licensing or permits to carry a sword or machete. There are also places to avoid carrying a large blade even if you have valid permits. Criminal charges related to dangerous and deadly weapons are very severe, and you should be extra careful when carrying a sword or machete.

[@scottishwarrior3547]

Basically, always look up the law of your state or providence

[@dalebarrs297]

​@ronaldskeet9880 Bad people are always going to carry weapons. Just because you outlaw something doesn't mean criminals will follow that law. It's why gun control also doesn't work. The only thing that is accomplished by gun and sword control is the removal of tools from good men so that they cannot defend themselves

[@BobT36]

@@ronaldskeet9880 They already do. Haven't you seen London, UK?

[@alistairbolden6340]

The Romans knew exactly what they were doing when the made the gladius its a fantastic short/medium range weapon. Something to really consider is an axe, not only is it a lethal defensive weapon but doubles as a very useful tool.

[@King.Leonidas]

War axes are really different than tool axes

[@BreandanOCiarrai]

well, to be perfectly fair the Romans stole the gladius from the Celtiberians, just like Alexander stole the falcata from them (which may well have spawned the kukri according to some). So, the Celts of Spain and Portugal were the origin point for some of the best swords of the ancient world

[@sevenproxies4255]

Except for one thing... That damn rounded handle that some gladii had. Not good for making edge alignment easy.

[@m.h.6470]

I watched all the original videos on Shadiversity, but to feed the algorithm and to support you, I gladly rewatch the content here. 😊👍

[@christianraymond9966]

Same for me

[@Nathan-vt1jz]

I also enjoy the short topical versions.

[@АйбулатИсхаков]

@@christianraymond9966 was going to say the same

[@sandwitch61762]

Imagine somebody who doesn't know the history behind the Shadlands just seeing Shad's age jumping around between videos.

[@m.h.6470]

@@sandwitch61762 true, that is a little bit weird, but it does at least say, that it is a super cut in those older videos...

[@TheHornedKing]

Sting from LOTR is such a sword. Get a functional replica, and now you got style too.

[@Nathan-vt1jz]

I was thinking the same thing.

[@jarlnils435]

Gladius Hispaniensis would be my take. It's longer than most gladii and it can chop like a machete or stab like a dagger. But a long seax would be great, too.

[@whywatt733]

What's great with proper swords of any variety is that they can bypass Canada's laws on what you can have on your person. They are considered antiques no different to a chair. Carry it around and say it's just an aesthetic:)

[@marckoolwijk2913]

Why would one carry a chair around? 😂

[@tenshimusouka5820]

@@marckoolwijk2913 You never know when you’ll find yourself in a situation where you have no choice but to sit.

[@malcolmrowe9003]

That wouldn't fly in the UK.

[@JP-ff8xt]

@@marckoolwijk2913 In the event you're attacked by a wrestler

[@whywatt733]

@@marckoolwijk2913 legally a fancy old chair is the same as a sword. That's what I meant lol. Carry a sword around as you wish in Canada. It's an antique

[@UPTAUT]

I can't go past a tomahawk or viking axe. Together with a spear, the zombies don't stand a chance

[@Brobobobobobobo]

I prefer a butterfly knife are a switchblade both of which are legal in my home state.

[@RepressedObeseCat]

@@Brobobobobobobo U lucky bastard (no offense intended).

[@VindicatorFSX]

Go algorithm Go! :) when you said two sided machete, I knew what was coming lol

[@marcelosilveira2276]

my penal law professor, who also happened to be a police inspector, once said that the best self-defense weapon is that which you can justify carrying out to the judge. A karambit knife have become popular enough in the public mind as a knife for pilling oranges that you could get away with usin it for self defense, but any sort of sword short of a replica for theater use is sure to have your carriage of a weapon questioned, and might even have you jailed for initiating an attack you defended against because "if you were not looking for trouble, why did you left home armed?" (this conveniently ignores that the State I live have a monthly death-by-violent-causes rate higher than some warzones around the world, since the judicial system here seens to be on the bandits side, as a general rule). This same reasoning automatically disqualifies anything announced as a self-defense WEAPON from the list, including pepper spray and tasers. It must be something you can reasonably explain to have improvised as weapon while totally having no intentions at all to ever use such objects in combat whatsoever... as a side note, if you car gets robbed, you can demand your tribute for having a car back, as it is understood that part of the reason you pay tribute over owning a car is because the state is protecting your property, so you are entitled to get x/12 out of your tribute back if the state fail to fulfil their part of the bargain. This is valid only for losing one's car though. X=the month you lost your car + the months left in the year. It is understood that the state did fulfil their role on each month in which you didn't got your car stolen.

[@benkayvfalsifier3817]

Obviously, the best modern-day melee weapon is a cane. A sword and knife would be deadlier, but it's also obvious. An effective knife needs to be at a specific length, and, unfortunately, at least in the USA, it's illegal to carry in public. A cane is noticeable, but neither illegal nor immediately obvious. Plus, it gives you reach. You can hide a simple spike on the bottom using a rubber knob and a hard, heavy, metal handle is just for "looks."

[@sternonisoil]

What's illegal to carry in public in the USA? Do you mean in a specific state?

[@benkayvfalsifier3817]

@@sternonisoil Tbf, I may be mistaken. But what I've researched is that many knives exceeding a certain width and/or length and special mechanisms are not legally allowed to be carried on your person in public, neither hidden nor visible. I am fairly sure it's most states, if not all, the USA because there seems to be no form of license to carry one legally. Some examples are a switch blade, bowie, cleaver, stiletto, dirk, various daggers, tanto, etc. Edit: Okay, it seems to vary between states, so you're right, but the one thing I noticed at a glance is that A: they *can not* be hidden and 2: the only exceptions are military, law enforcement, and certain government occupations. So basically, either everyone gets to know or you don't get to carry it at all. Edit dos: Oh, and there's a special exception for when you're hunting. Still can't be hidden, though.

[@JP-ff8xt]

@@benkayvfalsifier3817 No, it depends on the state. In NC, where I live, you can open carry any type of knife, including large daggers and Bowies. And there's a handful of states where you can carry absolutely anything either open or concealed.

[@benkayvfalsifier3817]

@@JP-ff8xt Nice. 😓 Unfortunately, my state is a bit more strict.

[@PeregrinTintenfish]

An umbrella. You can even buy fighting umbrellas.

[@MrHws5mp]

LMAO - I've ALWAYS said the Gladius is the ideal "modern" sword. In the Traveller sci-fi tabletop RPG, there's a weapon called a "blade" which is much favoured for spacecraft boarding actions (close quarters & delicate environment that "doesn't respond well to bullets"). It evolved from early improvised use of bayonets and hunting knives, and is basically a Gladius-style blade with a slim basket or knuckle-duster style grip to protect the user's spacesuit glove. It might be single or double edges (the single edge is favoured by some since it won't cut your own spacesuit if it's pushed back against you, but guys in armour don't care), and they often have glass-breaker style points on the pommel to smash suit helmet face plates.

[@brandonhughes179]

My gut instinct would've been the cutlass. It's got decent length, it's sturdy, it cuts well, it thrusts effectively, it's not too long so it won't be hampered in tighter spaces, and it has a dish guard for good hand protection and face-smashing

[@blasterbrain1443]

Almost exactly the blade I was thinking of, except I’d prefer a wider flared ‘leaf-shaped’ tip, to perhaps better allow machete-like chopping and still accommodate thrusting. I’m sure there’s a name for the design, but I don’t know it.

[@nathanbeverley247]

I think that's the "fulham" or "mainz" blade profile, if I recall correctly.

[@theriddler1168]

This is much better after watching both videos. This one had more clarity. Easier to follow and overall more enjoyable

[@enoughothis]

The Khopesh! It's shorter and thus easier to use in cramped situations. It's versatile, the curved shape can hook other weapons away. Single edged means you can non-lethally hit with the back. The point is in line with the hilt so you can thrust and stab. It's weighted like an ax so you can generate significant force on a swing.

[@WhimsicalPacifist]

2:16 Obviously the "Other Weapon" is another +3 Kukri for dual wielding. Will need to take Exotic Weapon and 2-Weapon training though.

[@Cassandra112]

hard to argue. it'd beat knives, it'd beat machetes in stabbing, and cutting. it can be easily accessed and uses in cars, and office spaces, hallways, elevators. the only things that would really compare are long daggers. What about trench knives/knuckle knives? the ability to break windows, etc might have value too.

[@benm5913]

Comment for the algorithm. Also, before watching, a short cut and thrust blade. Messer, Gladius, a good cane sword.

[@Sunstreaker2k5]

I'd think a Main Gauche would also fill the requirements you mention, and be lighter and easier to carry. Not quite as much chopping power but there are certainly variations that are double edged and razor sharp and thrusting would also not be an issue.

[@robertspencer5219]

A cane is a great weapon as you can even go through a security checkpoint with it.

[@baka_monogatari3389]

There is a type of machete that does have good thrusting capability: the spearpoint machete. The back edge, while not coming down as far as the front one, would still make it far more dangerous to grapple than a standard machete type as well.

[@angushay4549]

Scotland actually has some weapons that might be great for self defense. One of these that comes to mind is the sgian-achlais/mattucashlass, which is a large dagger worn under the armpit. Easy to conceal, and deadly. There is also the scottish dirk, which is very similar to the gladius actually and could be a good alternative.

[@asahearts1]

Before watching, I'm gonna say a large dagger or very short sword would be best. One with the ability to cut or thrust adequately. Either a large bowie knife, bolo knife, or a steel mainz gladius. I would shy away from the machete due to its thickness, weight, edge shape, and in most cases lack of thrusting power.

[@gronkgrunk]

Love what you're doing on this channel, Shad. Great to revisit all your older vids too.

[@ModernDayKnight03]

I didn't realize you're halfway to 100k on this channel! That is really cool!

[@Tzarina8472]

I wasn't sure what to write here today, so I just wrote this. Here's to Shad!

[@trfinley7076]

Another advantage of the gladius sized sword that was not mentioned is ease and speed of draw. A longer sword is a handicap if you are surprised and have a limited time and/or limited maneuvering room for reacting. It's also better in confined spaces such as indoors. I actually own a combat commander. The quality of the blade is light-years ahead of some of the very cheap machetes I have owned, i like how it feels in the hand, and it has a skull cracker short nub on the end of the pomel. It is also much more concealable and convenient to carry and maneuver with in the modern environment. Minus having access to a gun, it would be my first choice for most scenarios I can foresee the need to defend myself given my lifestyle and what would be convenient for me. Sure, if I can conveniently get more room, I will grab my katana (i sadly don't own any other swords or a spear), or even my bow.

[@RepressedObeseCat]

You've pointed out the limitations as to why longer blades aren't suitable for dealing with surprise/unprovoked attacks, i.e., self-defense. This is the first Shadlands video that didn't do justice to the original full length video - the situation isn't clearly spelled out, except for when Shad briefly mentions close range grappling.

[@scientoakuilusakuilar]

I would never have guessed you'd say a gladius. Those Romans sure knew how to pick effective weapons!

[@jierdareisa4313]

I love ALL THE SHADLANDS videos!!!! ❤

[@CreepyMF]

Congratulations on 50000 subs, that's some really nice growth.

[@acerpg]

I saw this when you originally aired it. And I agree with your conclusion. I actually would like to pick me up something decent like that just for my own self-defense if I cannot get my firearms.

[@JJP8XIV]

My best advice to people when they're concerned with crime. 1st always try to be observant keep in mind if you're surroundings. 2 train practice if you can I know not everyone can find places to practice and train. 3rd probably the biggest one group up if the area has higher crime rates group up strength in numbers. Great discussion Shad.

[@ZttackFrmBhind]

In studies it's been shown that in a gun vs. knife fight, the knife occasionally wins if it starts closer than 7 meters. Edit: "occasionally" replaced "usually"

[@ellnino]

No, not really... it was shown that it was possible to win that fight, but really not likely.

[@RainMakeR_Workshop]

That's not a study, its a misquote of a common law enforcement guideline. The 21-foot rule (6.4m). Which says that someone wielding a knife can cover 21 feet in the time it takes to draw and fire a gun from a standard issue holster. Its also based on several assumptions. The attacker already being running, it being flat ground, the officers gun being in the holster, the officer having an average draw speed, the attacker being average athleticism. There is a LOT more nuance to it than simply distance. Also its not that knives "win" in that scenario. Its that the attacker can already be on the officer by the time the gun is drawn. Doesn't mean it isn't still drawn and used or that the officer won't defend themselves in other ways. So basically if the gun is already drawn, or the officer is a quick draw, or the attacker is unfit, or uneven ground, or more than 21' away. The knife loses.

[@Ph03nix1]

@@RainMakeR_Workshop if I remember correctly, it also assumes you’re standing your ground. If someone with a knife is sprinting at me, I’m immediately backpedaling while drawing to get myself an extra second or two of time To be fair, there is reaction time to factor in. Cops are generally expecting, and regularly deal with people being hostile on a regular basis. Your average civilian generally isn’t going to be expecting some dude rushing them with a knife, and may take a couple of seconds to register what’s happening if it comes out of nowhere. In general though, if both parties are aware that there’s a threat, the gun will always win if the person practices their draw.

[@nuclearmedicineman6270]

That's with the knife already out, and the gun in a holster. I'm a competition shooter, I can draw and put two shots center mass, within a couple of inches of each other, in just under a second. How fast can you sprint 7 meters?

[@Scientist_Salarian]

@@nuclearmedicineman6270 Agreed. I’m not a comp shooter, but I’m very well trained. 1 second draw-to-shot times are not uncommon at my experience level. John Lovell can put 3 rounds onto 3 separate targets from the draw in 1.3 seconds. Don’t get me wrong, knife wounds can be VERY devastating (that’s why I carry a Clinch Pick, as well as my Shield 9), but I’ll always choose a gun as my first line of defense.

[@Avod_Grim]

I'd probably pick a spada da lato (or sidesword). It's got quite good hand protection, plenty of reach and it's double-edged. Might be a bit awkward to carry around, but i chose it because it's one of my favorite swords.

[@PeregrinTintenfish]

And fashionable

[@sevenproxies4255]

Before he says which popular sword it is, I'll just take a wild guess: A Gladius. Now I'll press play and see if I was right.

[@sevenproxies4255]

Me after Shad's reveal: 🤓

[@jamesbrown4092]

The gladius: The perfect weapon for when you're attacked by some maniac wielding a piece of fresh fruit. (Take THAT algorithm!)

[@happybirthdaypaulie8584]

5:05 I know how you feel, Shad

[@Señor-Donjusticia]

That’s not a noif! THIS! *pulls out Titan Sword* is a NOIF!!!

[@newtypehuman]

Crocodile Dundee said ‘that’s not a knife, that’s a knife . Mandela effect

[@Over_It]

Can I make an argument for a Roman Gladius in a modern setting? Good stats for both Slash & Pierce, small enough to work in close quarters, etc. Edit: that's what I get for commenting halfway through, lol. Sorry I was impatient. 😅

[@jierdareisa4313]

Called it, it's a gladius-like weapon!

[@Scientist_Salarian]

Timeless classic! There are several companies which make modern tactical gladius swords- well worth looking in to. Another option, though not a sword, is a tactical tomahawk. Tomahawks are still widely beloved by modern special forces. They’re my go-to non-firearm weapon.

[@ALavaPenguin]

I have often thought of a Gladius on my own when thinking about this question. One of the big advantages of that sort of sword size compared to a longer is you probably are very likely having to consider a situation in tight hallways of a house for home defense with that.

[@MATTesticle]

Son. Get me the gladius, I’ll go check it out.

[@Narsuitus]

The Gladius is my favorite sword for self-defense. A 12-inch Arkansas Toothpick is my favorite long knife for self-defense. A six-inch dagger is my favorite short knife for self-defense.

[@RoaADDW]

Teh Aul Gor Rit Hym. Great video

[@monsuta-666]

Commenting for the algorithm

[@John_Conner222]

First thing that popped in my head immediately was the Gladius, but you had me off guard there for a second while you held the Kukri. I know you where holding a Kukri but I was like in a self defense situation you want to stab, not swing and slice. Slicing is a bit trickier and can tire you out quickly plus deflection is easier and some garments like a leather or heavy denim jacket may be harder to cut into than to thrust. I know the Greek Xiphos leaf blade is basically a double edged Kukri and I believed the Greeks which eventually became the Romans evolved the Xiphos into tthe Gladius. The Gladius was developed as a self defense weapon for more thrusting and less slashing, when the Pilum was used or failed. However I still think its a bit clunky and wide. I think a large dagger or dirk (same length as a short Gladius but vastly thinner) would do the trick, like a Bollock or Rondel. Same concept but thinner. I think that's exactly the reason they evolved that way too in the later centuries. There is a good chance your opponent is not going to have a sword and you don't need alot of metal to parry. At most the other person is going to have a knife, bat, stick, or metal rod like a tire iron.

[@kosta5769]

Great video

[@Demmon98]

Hello Shad. I'll leave a comment for ya! And to be honest, a tactical gladius would be crazy!

[@cobbwebster]

Lmao. The build up to your favorite weapon

[@Leif3GHP]

Sword carrying is legal in my US state and I work in security, so I've been thinking about this for a few months now. Self defense laws are really top notch here, but in a lot of places, it's actually really hard to find what's called a "good shoot". Your target needs to be free of bystanders in the immediate vicinity. Whether getting mugged or shooting to defend someone else, crowds are a big problem. Therefore, I think I will carry a Spadroon. I could get into the practical reasons, but it tends to make some people uncomfortable, so I won't unless asked.

[@SaUl95954]

Imagine security personal with lances and kevlar suit

[@Leif3GHP]

@@SaUl95954 😂

[@wangusbeef86]

Imagine if you would be allowed to carry a billhook or poleaxe lol, but I like the idea of a compact bladed weapon that can be used to cut rope or chop wood as well for people who work security

[@Leif3GHP]

@@wangusbeef86 I'm gonna have to make a pitch to the state board that governs it.. Haha

[@ryanwalker8843]

For a home invasion I'm definitely choosing my gladius over any of my arming or longswords. Short swords are for sure the way to go in confined spaces. Hallways in particular I'm thinking of, but even in the more open spaces longer blades would be an issue. There is a reason I dont go swinging around my swords indoors. I'm gonna end up smashing them into something.

[@philipstehno1495]

I wish this video had the weapon table in the video frame so when Shad is gesturing over it we can see what he is looking at.

[@besteger]

The Kriegsmesser, gurkha & cutlass all saw use in claustrophobic environments like personal or home defense. Both are basically tuned-up machetes. The gladius is a tuned-up machete. I guess all roads really do lead to Rome.

[@maxpowers9129]

I have heard that a rapier was a sword designed for self defense. Thats why it offers more protection for the hand, since its meant for daily life and not for situations where you would normally be wearing armor.

[@RepressedObeseCat]

I think the rapier is superior to other sword designs and fighting styles when it comes to unarmored self defense, but it was largely used in dueling which was regulated and not (usually) spontaneous and therefore not a defensive weapon. In the age of dueling when 1v1 fighting was legal and surprise attacks not really necessary when you could hire someone to duel for you, rapiers proliferated. Shad described close-quarter grappling in his scenarios, so we are looking at extra-legal situations. In a no-warning first strike wins type scenario, which has become the norm, the reach, hand protection and speed advantages of the rapier may not have a chance to come into play.

[@jonh8790]

Got a mystery bundle of united cutlery and cold steel blades. That gladius was in the bundle, it is as lightweight and maneuverable as Shad claims.

[@caelcomito8557]

"No, it's not the katana" 🤣Sting from LOTR wouldn't be too bad. Beautiful craftsmanship, and a good dagger on the side. As much as I agree with what Shad is saying, I also think that it is best to use what you have the best training in. I have over a decade's training in fencing (Renaissance and Olympic), and I would prefer a small sword and a dagger or a cloak (a real cloak with spikes at the end) because that is what I know so well.

[@Burbund]

Machete has also a legal advantage where in some places it's clasified as a gardening utencil But that depends on the country

[@RepressedObeseCat]

And that's the problem. Can you wear it to the supermarket and shopping mall where you live?

[@vavoo4971]

Before watching: I'd say a larger tanto would do well.

[@RepressedObeseCat]

Seax - cheaper. Bowie knife - more intimidating.

[@BreandanOCiarrai]

I'd say longer coustiles would also work just as well

[@Daecoth]

In Texas, it's only natural to have a trusty boomstick for defending one's home, but a solid blade is a good fall back option.

[@ROMANTIKILLER2]

A modern self-defense swrod in my opinion should meet three criteria: 1. ease to be carried around; 2. practical and easy to use in confined spaces; 3. versatile. If we considered bladed weapons in general, my choice would fall on a bayonet, hunting dagger, or wakizashi. If we only talked about SWORDs, to shock of many my choice would be a (well-made) spadroon: quite light and nimble, it has some reach but it's not cumbersome, it can cut and thrust decently, and coming with a steel scabbard could be also used as a blunt non-lethal object. But the gladius is also a good choice, since technically still counts as a sword.

[@cory6266]

I have to go with a smallsword. Not as good at cutting, but lighter and faster, and with a buttressed blade so you don't have to worry about it breaking easily.

[@kanrakucheese]

"It's not the katana... but it may be the Katana's little brother."

[@jedisentinal353]

Great video ❤

[@williamgaspari626]

A Honshu Gladiator Sword review please!!! 🙏🙏🙏 I love the gladius swords and i love the Honshu Line!!! Thanks man, your channel is awsome!!!

[@frankbauerful]

Those swords from the Romeo&Juliet movie with DiCaprio and Danes look super effective for self defense.

[@RepressedObeseCat]

Only when honor was observed. Many nobles never cleared their sheathes before they got taken out by shorter blades at close quarters, by surprise. Dueling is dueling, but self-defense is dealing with an unprovoked attack.

[@oaksparoakspar3144]

We have the same discussions in concealed carry firearms here in the free states. The best firearm to have for self defense is the one that you actually have with you when you need a firearm for self defense. The gun you leave at home doesn't save your life. Thus, while there are plenty of discussions about stopping power, capacity, accuracy, etc - all things that tend to favor bigger and heavier firearms - for self defense (when out of your home) it is always limited by what you will actually carry. If you won't carry anything bigger than a .22LR, you are certainly in a TERRIBLE firearm for self defense that is a billion times better than the 9mm you leave at home because it is uncomfortable to carry on that one random day you actually need it. The sword issue is the same. Obviously you would have something different for home defense, but the real issue is what you would actually carry. There is a reason, historically, that even when swords could and would be carried, it was always more common for most people to just carry convenient knives that would be vastly inferior for self defense, but could still do the job while being convenient to carry. So, just like today a "serious" self defense person is in 9mm or larger, spare mag, good HP rounds, etc - but lots of actual people have pocket 9s, .380's, .38sp revolvers, and even .22LRs in their pockets, purses, and glove compartments - if we were all in swords, serious folk about self defense would be carrying small, useful swords (gladius, messar, smallswords, machete, etc) while most who carried something would be carrying a large knife (Rambo, kukri, wakizashi or tanto, military, bowie, etc). Again, consider how many cultures were just "large knife" cultures historically when swords existed and could have been carried, but the burden of sword carry wasn't worth it.

[@SmithsAndSons]

Personally, I'd take my kindjal. Sharp on both sides, light, curved just enough to slash but not enough to damage my thrusting. Gladius is still a solid choice, however.

[@facundomanuelsaravia9794]

I knew you would chose the gladius Shad.

[@somerando1073]

Another consideration which you didn't touch on, but does support your choice... Defending yourself in your home can lead to fighting around corners, narrow hallways, in the bathroom... Too long of a sword would be way too awkward in those situations.

[@richardh9828]

Add the hilt of a Trench Knife to get serius hits even in close range

[@joeyvanhaperen7715]

I honnestly would pick a messer or falchen instead. Most people aren't sword fighters and wouldn't know how to use a false edge anyway. Just having a tiny bit of edge at the tip like a lot a falchens and messers have would be enough to keep people from trying to grab it. Also don't underestemate how much damages a crossguerd can do in a close up fight.

[@CowCommando]

Gonna have to go with Joerge Spave's switch blade machete on this one.

[@--Sama-]

Well, I suspose it depends of the context of the situation. It is not the same if you live in a rural area or in a city.

[@Bjorn830]

Langmesser, wakizashi, hanger, flyssa, bowie knife, they're all single edged slashing weapons with good thrusting ability that fall in length between 12 and 24 inches. Our ancestors knew what they were doing.

[@ellnino]

I think just having those really loud alarm bombs would help more than any cold weapon. You want your attacker to run away, not getting him in the survival mode.

[@nuclearmedicineman6270]

I carry a .40, because I want my attacker to be in the non-survival mode.

[@adama1294]

I was thinking the leaf blade like "Sting" would be great. Seems like I was pretty close.

[@АйбулатИсхаков]

Good old Boromir is much less beaten and withered here than in the actual timeline

[@karistasogare]

nice pick however I might recommend the Kukri (Gurkha knife) as an alternative.

[@7tengery950]

I would put a basket on that, so that would protect my hand and I could also use it for punching. So basically I prefer the cutlass as a close combat weapon.

[@RepressedObeseCat]

But that interferes with the ease of daily carry. I would love some kind of pop-out hand protection that folds flat when the blade is sheathed, but that is fantasy.

[@nyanbrox5418]

Bit of a controversal take, in D&D, I often play wizards, and I actually think the best self defense weapon is actually a dagger (for when you're out of magic) Edit: once or twice I used a shortsword because it has a bit more reach (or in D&D logic it translates to about 20% more dpr) Edit 2: The gladius is my favourite "shortsword", again, D&D term, not sword term, actually... I have just thought of a really fun Roman soldier type build that would make really good use of one...

[@MrRLP402]

Bought myself a modernized gladius about a month ago.

[@josuesepulveda6850]

The gladius seem like the perfect every day weapon for civilians outside and especialy for indoor use and if you use it in combination with a buckle,it would be deadly🏰⚔️

[@RepressedObeseCat]

Works for Goblin Slayer.

[@HyuLilium]

What if you're against a baseball bat?

[@laokon]

Warpike, gladius, scaramax

[@arnoldmarcus3634]

Any modern tactical shields? I’d like a big ass Roman shield like a riot shield, and a pistol.

[@raphlvlogs271]

what about a complex hilted Gladius? 1 with a knuckle bow or side rings

[@salihburakisik501]

Ooooh holy dooly just a idea magnetised armour? So like a goalkeepers you go into it the attack like deterrence as you close the gap and stuff. Like the same tech guy who made thors hammer tech. I dont know if im explaining this. Best offence is deffence?

[@samueldegelder2647]

I'm remembering your back scabbard video, and I recall that a big issue was length, especially for a longsword, I wonder if the short size of a gladius would make it easier to attatch to the back perhaps making it a good candidate for a concealed self defense weapon???

[@AlaricAchos]

rapier pair with dagger (only if you train) Gladiolus types are best with low or unskilled (or if you say 'with dagger' is two weapons) 🤪

[@nicholasking6066]

Greek leaf blade but of spring steel and of same length has all the plusses of that gladius but also better in the cut like a kukri and far better in the thrust.

[@Irmarinen]

Pro Tip: gladius works Supremely well with riot-, or rather, ANY kind of shield - that is an ideal combo - Gladius+Shield for self defense, IMO.

[@TalesForWhales]

I'll throw in the cane sword since the tool will always start in your hand, and mandates a proper dress code.

[@longrider42]

Yep, the United Cutlery Combat Command Gladiators Sword, is just the right size. I keep one in my office. Seems to be very well made. But, you never even mention the Wakizashi. With a 18 inch blade, and decent stabbing point, it would also be good. I keep one in my bedroom. I also have the Gustav Messer, single edged, 18 inch long blade, hands on the wall of my bed room. It is heavy enough, that if I whacked some one with the side, or back of the blade, they would stay Whacked. The one thing I will soon add to my collection, is a Shield Buckler.

[@TheCanuckCanadain]

Nobody wears armor. So a great sword and falshion is out. You don't want long as it can bump into things. So longsword and rapier is out. Katanas could be ok but I would go with a arming sword

[@KAJ1994]

Praise the Omnissiah

[@leanid2380]

Not quite a sword, but you could also pick out something inspired by the later examples of pugiones for something lighter weight and more maneuverable. ...Do you have a pugio video?

[@jimspetdragons3737]

I guessed right after the long sword was eliminated.

[@scp2539]

yt doing it again, no notice but was suggested on my homepage