What is dussack?

The dussack is a type of single-edged, curved sword that originated in Central Europe during the late Middle Ages. It was a popular weapon among both civilians and soldiers, as its design made it effective for both cutting and thrusting. The dussack typically had a blade that was slightly curved and either single-edged or with a false edge on the back.

The dussack was primarily used in the German-speaking regions of Europe, especially in the Holy Roman Empire. It was often used in fencing schools for training and practice, as well as in dueling and self-defense. The weapon's versatility and durability made it a popular choice for many individuals.

Over time, the design of the dussack evolved, with variations that included basket hilts, hand guards, and different blade shapes. The weapon eventually fell out of favor as firearms became more prevalent on the battlefield.

Today, the dussack is primarily used in historical European martial arts (HEMA) practices and reenactments. Experienced practitioners can still find dussacks crafted by modern weapon makers that closely replicate the historical designs.