I heard the Romans used their short swords to thrust into their opponents which gave a more grevious wound to their enemies. Slicing attacks may not work as fast. That’s what I heard- I’m not an expert nor did I stay at a Holiday Inn last night.
Short sword techniques are different than katanas.
Here is a nice Gladius Machete sold at farm supply stores. Less than $50!
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Napoleon said use the point! The point! A stabbing wound with a straight sword proved a more deadly wound than a slicing wound made with a curved sword.