The anatomy of a sabre can be divided into two main parts: the blade and the handle. The handle consists of several different parts, each with its own purpose.
The anatomy of a sabre explained
Blade
The main component of a sabre is the blade. A distinctive element of most sabres is that the blade is curved. Depending on the type of sabre, the blade has a convex and concave side or a convex and straight side. The tip of the blade turns slightly upwards and is extremely sharp.
The concave or straight side of the blade is blunt and is considered the top of the blade. The convex side of the knife is sharp and is used for cutting and chopping.
Some sabres, such as the schiavona, or swords with basket hilts, are straight.
Tang
The blade has a narrow extension, the so-called tang. The tang is used to attach the blade to the handle.
Guard
Between the blade and the handle is the guard, also known as a handguard or knuckleguard. The guard of a sabre usually has an arc that connects to the end of the handle and covers the knuckles. This shape provides a safer grip and extra protection for the hand.
Grip
Below the guard is the handle or the grip of the sabre. This is where the user places their hand when using the sabre. The grip is often made of wood, but sometimes also of steel. To ensure a good grip on the grip, it can be wrapped with leather. Some sabres have a handle covered with brass with a ring pattern on it. This is another way to provide more grip on the sabre.
Pommel
At the end of the grip is the pommel. This is an enlarged fitting to prevent the sabre from slipping out of the wearer's hand. It also acts as a counterweight for the blade.
Scabbard
Sabres are usually worn in a scabbard . A saber sheath often has a pair of rings attached, which are used to carry the sabre on a belt. Many sabres are too long and too curved to hang from a single point just below the handle. They may then touch the ground, cause the person wearing them to trip, or be very difficult to draw from the scabbard.
At the end of the scabbard is a piece of metal called a chape.
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