Portuguese in Ronin

[Drachenklinge]

For a one on one unarmored duel Rapier is a pretty damn effect weapon as it has advantages over some other swords due to being a specialized thrusting weapon, thrusting is generally quicker and has more range than cutting.

I'd add, that the Japanese armours were not that good against thrusts, but cuts. But not sure, here. One is a sword-fight-technique-thing, the other a more technical-physic matter, me thinks.
So one could have been countered by "more training", the other only by advanced armoury, or not?

[Sisyphus]

I think in the end skill is the greatest balancer because a more skillful opponent may know ways, either sword block or dodge, to counter the other's weapon. But looking at both weapons, the rapier has the potential to hit first. There is the quick lunge... but if it misses the wielder had best get out of the way of the katana or such that will be coming back in a slash. The rapier wielder will need a buckler or a main-guache. This is all assuming a balanced fight and I doubt any foreign soldier is so worried about a test of honor...he'd likelier rather just fight dirty and walk away.

[Sisyphus]

Would Portuguese have used a Spanish-style of fighting?  I would assume so. (peripheral dancing, non-closing to enemy, extended-length basket rapier & dagger/cloak)