Xenophon of Athens — soldier, historian and philosopher — wrote explicitly in his treatise On Horsemanship that cavalry should carry a Kopis rather than a Xiphos, because ‘from the height of a horse’s back, the cut of a Kopis will serve you better than the thrust of a Xiphos.’ This is not a general observation but a specific tactical recommendation from a man who had commanded cavalry in the campaigns of the Ten Thousand and who understood mounted warfare from personal experience.
The Athenian cavalry — wealthy citizens who could afford horses — were equipped with high-quality personal equipment, and their Kopis would have been a prestige object as well as a fighting tool. The horn grip, solidly riveted to the thick full tang of the blade, reflects the documented material of the finest surviving examples, providing a warm, traditional appearance and comfortable handling.
Deepeeka’s version features a high carbon steel blade in the forward-curving Kopis profile, with the horn hilt providing historical authenticity and a distinctive aesthetic. A complete leather scabbard with baldric strap allows for authentic Greek cavalry carry.
Made in association with Matthew Amt.
