There are a whole lot of different types of swords, but in general spears and polearms are more effective combat tools. I like to use the modern analogy of pist

There are a whole lot of different types of swords, but in general spears and polearms are more effective combat tools. I like to use the modern analogy of pistols and rifles, rifles are objectively superior combat arms in pretty much every way but anyone who can get away with not carrying one carries a handgun instead.