The Gustav Rapier replicates on of the two weapons used by King Gustav Adolf II, who ruled Sweden in the early part of the 17th century. The shell guard of the rapier is unusual but effective. The Gustav has a stainless steel hilt, for reduced maintenance, and a high-carbon steel flex-tempered blade. The antiqued finish, developed by Hanwei, has allowed a museum-quality patina to be applied to stainless steel while the non-corroding properties of the steel are retained. This finish is extremely attractive and gives a very authentic appearance to the piece. The hilt is the same size as the museum piece on which it is based, providing an authentic “feel” in the user’s hand. This piece includes a leather scabbard.