The barbs are designed so they deflect a sword’s edge by «snagging» on it. If your enemy makes an attempt a downward strike with his sword, the dagger will catch the blade on the way down, preventing your opponent from utilizing the drive of his downward strike to thrust or slash you.
The epee is as long because the foil with a rectangular cross-part. It has a 3-sided blade and a pistol grip. It was the mostly used dueling sword in the 19th century, Chinese swords types changing the rapier. Battles have been fought until first blood, i.e., a adequate nick was enough to finish the game.
To improve dealing with when making cuts and thrusts, the hilt is curved in a reverse route to the blade whereas cord is wrapped around the picket handle. Modern broadswords used in martial arts displays usually have scarves or tassels. Broadsword blades are normally forged from bolstered steel and the handles can either be picket or metallic.