Samurai Sword are often carried by their bearers with the handle in the center. It is possible to hit an opponent in one swing with the blade, deflecting the attack, or tripping them. The effectiveness of these weapons is largely dependent on the skill of the bearer. However, there are some swords that were not originally from Asia. For example, a kilij was originally from Turko-Mongol cultures, but it is also found in western parts of Algeria and Morocco.

The earliest Scimitar were single-edged, and were made in Central Asia. Early examples date back to the 9th century, during the Abbasid Caliphate in Khurasan. Turkic nomads in Central Asia influenced the development of the saif. These nomads eventually converted to Islam, becoming the true rulers of the area. The kilij became a popular weapon in Islamic armies during the Islamization of the Turks.

The scimitar is another sword that was used in the Middle East. Its popularity lasted until the invention of smokeless powder firearms. Egyptian khopesh, which resembled the scimitar, is also sometimes considered a scimitar. Early swords used in Islamic lands were straight and double-edged. Later, Turkic warriors brought the curved scimitar to the Central Islamic lands.

The blades of Viking-era swords were about three and a half feet long. It was also notable for its unique shape. Its point was neither pointed nor blunt, and the blade could not be redirected as easily as a sharp-pointed blade. This was a very useful weapon, but its use was short-lived as advances in metallurgy led to quality iron that could be smelted into blades.

Originally designed as an anti-cavalry weapon, katanas were the ideal tool for the warrior. Their light weight and sharp point were also advantages, as the sword was easy to draw and used in combat. In addition to piercing armor, a skilled longsword could even kill a horse. This ability to quickly respond and attack was very advantageous during the Hundred Years War, when samurai knights wore plate armor.

Swords come in many different styles. A French foil has a slightly curved handle and an Italian foil has a crossbar about five cm behind the guard. French foils are usually lighter than their Italian counterparts. A French or Italian longsword has a longer blade, and can be used in various combats. The blade length is up to ninety centimeters and is usually covered in a circular handguard.