From the inception of the comic book superhero, creators have come up with thousands, if not tens of thousands of high-tech weapons. These devices have the potential to destroy small cities or wipe planets out of the solar system. Yet, many heroes turn to an ancient weapon to help them, well, cut through the darkness. Of course, we're talking about the sword.

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This bladed weapon isn't used willy-nilly across the comic book universes. They're utilized by characters who are experts in swordsmanship. In addition, they reside not only on Earth but also across the universe. As proof to this statement, here are the top 10 sword-wielding comic book heroes, ranked.

10 Black Knight

It makes sense that Dane Whitman, the hero known as Black Knight, is an expert swordsman. He's the direct ancestor of Sir Percy of Scandia, a knight who lived during the time of King Arthur. In fact, When Dane has been in trouble, Sir Percy has taken over his body or the cursed Ebony Blade to help him out.

Dane's skills with any type of sword are so good that he has defeated Captain America and Thor in battle. An Avenger in good standing, the Black Knight has been with various incarnations of the team starting in the late 1960s. He also became the de facto field leader in the 1990s when Captain America was not available.

9 Deadpool

The Merc with the Mouth is not only a superb marksman with any type of modern weapon. He's also handy with swords. Actually, a pair of them. You know, just in case the first skewer of his victim doesn't completely kill him.

When Deadpool uses these blades depends on the situation. Like Indiana Jones, he'll use a gun more times than not when someone wants to show-off. However, he'll pull the blades out in close combat, or when he wants to show off. Truth is, Deadpool looks for as much attention as his soliloquizing victims.

8 Sif

lady-sif

Lady Sif is one of the most recognizable Asgardian warriors besides Thor. In addition, she's one of the oldest characters introduced, joining the Marvel universe in 1964. Since then, she has become a prominent figure in Thor's life.

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When it comes to battle, Sif prefers a good ol' sword and shield. She's certainly proficient at their use. She has defeated numerous human and Asgardian figures thanks to her increased stamina and strength. Early in her appearances, Sif wielded a sword that could cleave dimensional openings. These allowed Asgardians like Thor to travel to other locations outside of the Rainbow Bridge.

7 Swordsman

Jacques Duquesne, known in the Earth-616 universe as Swordsman, is one of those characters who sought redemption after a life of crime. This is most likely due to how he started his life. In particular, he was one of the people who trained Clint Barton, who would eventually become Hawkeye, in archery skills.

Unfortunately, Duquesne's life wasn't as successful. He began to steal from the circus where he performed and joined other villains for bigger jobs. Eventually, his soul overcame his mind and he turned to the light. He became a respected Avenger in the 1960s and 70s.

6 Gamora

Gamora without a sword is tough enough. Gamora with a sword is downright deadly. There's a possible theory on this. Because she wasn't born or technologically endowed with heightened powers like Thanos' other children, she needed to establish another way to defeat the foes who constantly came against her family.

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This is not only for her "biological" family, but the Guardians of the Galaxy as well. Thus, she relies on her sword, named Godslayer, more than a blaster or other advanced weapon. It's no wonder that she is feared by good and bad citizens across the universe.

5 Warlord

Oliver Queen lookalike Travis Morgan didn't have a choice in developing a skill in swordsmanship. Once the former Air Force pilot crashed in the mystical land of Skartaris, Travis had to learn how to defend himself. That, and learn to feel comfortable wearing a thong.

Nevertheless, he still used a revolver when needed. When the bullets started to run out, Travis relied more on his sword for defensive and offensive purposes. This worked because Warlord was able to carve a life for himself in Skartaris that involved a marriage and a daughter who eventually became a sorceress.

4 Wonder Woman

Prior to the New 52 era, Princess Diana didn't rely on any weapons. Her Golden Lasso and bracelets were her only offensive and defensive weapons. Combined with her super-strength and stamina, Wonder Woman was able to defeat her adversaries.

However, in the New 52 and Rebirth eras, Diana developed a more militaristic outlook on superheroism. Thus, a sword and bronze shield became part of her costume. Since then, she has used this combination numerous times to disable and even kill others.

3 Blade

Of course, Blade uses silver-plated swords. He needs them to defeat Dracula and the other vampires in the Marvel universe. It's something he has dedicated his life to since he was old enough to avenge his mother's death.

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For nearly five decades, Blade has protected Earth-616 from those who would suck blood from their bodies. He doesn't hesitate to use any silvery blade to do this. It can be a longsword, katana, or knives. Each vampire defeated is one step closer to the elimination of the vile creatures.

2 Magik

Illyana Rasputina wasn't always an expert in swordsmanship. Prior to the creation of the Soulsword, Illyana, known as Magik of the New Mutants, could transport herself and others from one place to another through the other-dimensional plane known as Limbo. It's when she got caught there that she learned how to generate this powerful weapon.

Today, Magik relies more on her magical powers and the Soulsword in battle. Its abilities have changed as Illyana has grown. Previously only able to disrupt magical objects and people, it can now be used to harm physical entities. We're sure the Soulsword's abilities will continue to change as Magik continues her adventures.

1 Katana

When Katana was introduced in the early 80s, she was a tortured individual who wanted to fight for justice after her husband and children were killed. However, as her character was fleshed out over the years, she and her sword, Soultaker, became more prominent in the DC universe.

Today, Katana is one of the foremost ninjas and swordmasters. She continues to fight for justice, no matter if she battles solo or with teams like Birds of Prey or the Outsiders. She will use Soultaker to absorb the souls of the evilest individuals. However, she would rather kill those hardened criminals who have no redemption.

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