We got lots of different kinds of swords.
Two Handed Blades are powerful but you can't use a shield so you better be damn good.
Short Swords are light and you can use a shield. Great if you're just learning the ways of the sword.
Scimitars are curved blades that are great for close battles, easy to maneuver but not as good for one on one.
Runeblades. They don't dull but only come as two handed blades.You already know the problems with those.