I used a +3 Long Bardiche for 3 gens (after 3 gens of Great Long Bardiche). Totally sick weapon, I don't know why it is rare. Now that I am 1h/shield, I hope it stays rare, because that thing will 2-3 shot most shields.
Nordic War Sword is a viable alternative to Italian Sword, I think it just gives up a little too much reach and thrust damage for that 1 more cut damage. Looks way cooler than the Italian though.
I love my +3 military hammer, and they are starting to get popular. People assume 94 speed on a 1h is slow, but 94 speed is considered fast for a 2h/pole, so it doesn't feel slow. 1h swords just don't do significant damage to even people in loomed medium armor, 31 blunt held attack to the head will mess anyone up though.
In general though, I'd say the short swords are the most underused as a whole. They should all do more damage, especially on thrust.