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             Even though dueling was illegal in most of Europe, it was a popular way for "gentlemen" and army officers to settle their disagreements, making it commonplace (Knopf 42-47). In dueling two weapons were used by each fighter, one being a sword and the other a parrying dagger. First used in about 1650, this dagger was effective in duels as it served to protect the fighter by allowing him to block thrusts by his opponent. The parrying dagger was kept in the fighters off-hand to block the opponent's blows while the fighter struck with his sword. In addition this dagger could be used to mislead the opponent because it could be used for striking as well blocking (Knopf 43).

             The design of swords' handles was also carefully considered by the smiths. While many sixteenth century swords had decorative hilts or handles, the rapier had among the most complex hilts designed to protect the hand in dueling. In contrast the hilt of some broadswords had a much simpler design. As was the case for the rapier, complex hilts were necessary to protect the bare hand (Knopf 45).

             Weapons that were regularly used needed to be carried securely and yet be easily accessible. In the Elizabethan Era swords were the weapons of choice and were carried around. A scabbard, being attached to the belt, was a sheath used to hold swords and daggers. Military personnel and aristocrats were known to regularly carry their swords within scabbards (Wills 40).

             During the Elizabethan Era, knights were the soldiers of European armies. These soldiers needed unique weapons to use in battle, weapons that could be used to pierce through another knight's armor. The mace and the battle-axe were examples of such weapons. These two weapons were ideally suited for knights engaged in battle.

             The mace was a revived and modified form of the club. However, in contrast to the club which was primarily made of wood, the mace had metal spikes and weights attached to make it heavier and a more effective weapon in battle.