Legends of the Broadsword: Backsword v Rapier
In my own experience, the broadsword and target have the advantage over the rapier and dagger, a view which seems to be supported by this satirical poem from the works of Sheridan:
A Highlander once fought a Frenchman at Margate,
The weapons, a rapier, a back-sword and target;
Brisk Monsieur advanced as fast as he could,
But all his fine pushes were caught in the wood,
And Sawny, with back-sword, did slash him and nick him,
While t'other, enraged that he could not once prick him,
Cried, "Sirrah, you rascal, you son of a whore,
Me will fight you, be gar! If you come from your door."