I've never actuall killed a man with a sword. I have however badly cut and hurt them. the edges on the ones we use are dulled (points are still sharp though) This way, when we hit, it usually doesnt break the skin, unless its a point slash.
Since I've been training in all sort of hand to hand weapons since I was 13 I have almost 20 years worth of training.
I have been shot at several times, I would much rather face an opponant eye to eye even if I were to be outclassed.