Two handed Storta

[BladeMan]

No sure if this is the right place, no discussion, just showing a favorite of mine.
Two handed Storta, Italy around 1580, it has the Belluno Knots as a marking so it's most likely made in the Belluno area (Venetian Republic) and was a soldiers weapon.

All parts are original, original leather hilt, all tight.
Overall it's 92 (36") cm long and weight is 1011 grams (35 oz), Balance point is 13 cm (5") in front of the guard.

 

[Mecha]

Gazing at that inspiring sword never gets old. Understated masterpiece. Glad you took those detailed photos of it.

 

[DocJD]

What is the purpose of the ring / loop on the guard ?

If a soldier's weapon , it must have had a real function .

 

[scarysamcary]

What is the purpose of the ring / loop on the guard ?

simply for added protection to the dominant hand

 

[DocJD]

simply for added protection to the dominant hand

Thank you !