Regenyei Standard Rapier - HEMA Review

Hema - Review Criteria

Before we dive in I wanted to make it clear that Kult of Athena provided this sword for the purpose of reviewing and if you like what you see there will be an affiliate link above.

Now let's go over the key factors I'll be considering in this review:

Fit and Finish: What materials are used, and how well is it put together?

Handling: Balance, weight, and overall feel in the hand.

Durability: How well will this sword hold up to regular HEMA training?

Safety: Does the sword have proper blunt edges and a safe tip for sparring?

Value: Is the price point reasonable for the quality and features offered?

Fit and Finish - 7

With the Regenyei’s Standard Rapier the thing that stands out the most is the sweeping guard. I do not believe it is tempered but that really should not matter too much for a rapier. The pommel is peened and has a outtie belly button look to it. Moving on to the blade, the tip is rolled with a diamond cross section, it features a 41 5/16" inches (105 cm), and all together is about 2 lbs 3.2 (998 grams).

Overall, the fit and finish is pretty nice but it is a bit basic and I am not sure the guard is tempered. It is pretty utilitarian in material feel which is a shame because they obviously took care to have a nice looking pommel and guard. 7 out of 10. 

Handling and Performance - 9

If you want a thrust centric rapier, I am not sure there is going to be a better option for you. It feels agile and light (for a rapier) in the hand. There is enough room in the guard to have your fingers in multiple positions, even with a thicker glove. I used the thoks and I had no problem getting my glove in and grabbing the sword however I wanted. I use the sword against some heavy bladed rapiers and lighter ones and it has just enough meat to not get beaten out of the way but I certainly don’t feel confident in its ability against a side sword.  I give it an 9 out of 10

Durability - 5

While I really enjoy the feel of the blade, it now has a sligh flex. In all the matches I had one shot that really tested in the flex on the rapier and it certainly gave, but it did not make it all the way back. It happens but I am also a pretty light touch fighter so if you tend to be a heavy hitter you won’t kill your opponent but you might just have a wiggle in the blade that will serve as a reminder to not thrust too hard.

The crossguard has not deformed too bad even though I am not sure if it is tempered. Granted I didn't get a chance to throw it against a slide sword but I doubt it is made for that level of punishment.

The durability could be improved with a tempered guard and the blade got a set,  I give it a 5 out of 10. It is not falling apart when I am going to see every flight marked on the rapier in one way or another.

Safety - 10

It has a great flex and the rolled tip is tight enough, I do not think it will catch anything and a rubber tip can go right over it.

I am not sure where it could improve. I would feel safe fighting against the most ham fisted opponent if they had this guy. 10 out of 10

Value - 7

This sword is $339 on Kult of Athena, It is not a terrible price and with a lot of Regenyei, it is designed for form and cost rather than fashion. That is to say it is pretty spartan but you do get a rapier that feels great, it may not last as long as you would like.

7 out of 10

Overall Impression - 7.6

With an aggregate score of 7.6, this rapier is a rapier for someone with a lot of experience and knows how to handle a thin rapier against more brutish opponents and heavier weapons. I know by the numbers the Hanwei beats this one out, but I will probably be using this as my go to rapier. I love this handle and knowing I need to be a tad more careful does not bother me.