No, swords arent bad because of UUs, they're bad because of axemen, and also HAs are much better for offense due to their mobility. I dont rely on luck or the chance of an opponent not having copper, as the AI are usually very quick to settle strategic resources on higher difficulties. Its a very rare scenario that the AI will not have axemen before you get to IW on Imm / Deity.
Also I would always prioritize construction after the opportunity for an axe or HA rush has passed. Between axes and catapults, swordsmen are too weak and easily countered to fit the gap.
Also I forgot, that if I have access to iron and a non fishing civ, I can get to Crossbows just 1 turn later than getting IW with a bulb, which are vastly better at that time for attacking cities with prior to construction.
Also I would always prioritize construction after the opportunity for an axe or HA rush has passed. Between axes and catapults, swordsmen are too weak and easily countered to fit the gap.
Also I forgot, that if I have access to iron and a non fishing civ, I can get to Crossbows just 1 turn later than getting IW with a bulb, which are vastly better at that time for attacking cities with prior to construction.