A ricasso is the unsharpened segment of a sword’s blade, located directly above the guard and below the sharpened cutting edge. By leaving this particular section unsharpened, swordsmiths ensure a safe gripping area for techniques that require a firmer hold closer to the blade. This approach is often utilized in half-swording maneuvers, where a combatant holds the blade with one hand while thrusting or wrestling in close combat scenarios.
Beyond its practical advantages, the ricasso can significantly impact a sword’s overall balance, as it can affect its weight distribution.
Furthermore, some swords incorporate finger rings or “chappe” at the ricasso, allowing a swordsman to loop a finger over the guard for greater stability during thrusts. This is frequently found on rapiers and other blades designed for intricate fencing techniques.
From an aesthetic perspective, ricassos can serve as a blank canvas for engravings, inscriptions, or makers’ marks, transforming the unsharpened area into a signature statement of the swordsmith’s craftsmanship. Some collectors also appreciate the decorative aspects of the ricasso, as it creates an opportunity to showcase scrollwork or filigree without compromising the blade’s integrity.
