The point or tip of a sword be a single point (or double point in the case of bifurcated blades), rounded or squared off. The geometry of the tip greatly influences the effectiveness of the blade for particular uses. There are a great many profiles for the points of swords where the edge and top of the blade meet the point. Here are a few examples:
1. A typical curved tip to a point. Concentrates force on a small area. Optimal for thrusting.
2. Trailing point with a back edge that curves upward. Optimized for slicing or slashing
3. Clip point - may be straight or curved, and back end may or may not be sharpened. Useful as a pick and allows great control in piercing.
4. Drop point - A convex curvature of the back towards the point. Stronger than a clip point but less suitabler for piercing.
5. Spear point - the tip is symmetrical with the point aligned with the centerline of the blade's long axis. Typically double edged. Optimized for thrusting.
6. Needle point - a sharply taperd point on a narrow blade to reduce friction and increase the ability to quickly penetrate.
7. Spey point - a single sharp straight edge that curves upwards at the end to meat a short dull straight point from the back. Poor for penetration but better for slicing.
8 (a) (b). Chisel points - typical of Japanese blades, there are many varieties: Chu, Ko, Ikubi, Okissaki, and others.
9. "Sheepsfoot" - a point directly in line with the edge, the back dull and curving downward to meet it.
10. "Whamcliff" - similar to a sheepsfoot but with a longer and more gradual curve.
