A bastard sword, also known as a hand-and-a-half sword, emerged in late medieval Europe as a versatile weapon. Designed to be used with one or two hands, it bridges the gap between arming swords and greatswords. Featuring a longer grip, straight double-edged blade, and balanced weight, the bastard sword excelled in both battlefield combat and personal defense. Today, it is prized by collectors, reenactors, and historical fencing enthusiasts.