The anatomy of a sabre can be separated into two main parts: the blade and the handle. The grip consists of a number of different parts, each with their own purpose.
Sabre anatomy explained
Blade
The most important part of a sabre is the blade. A distinguishing feature 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 point of the blade curves slightly upward and is extremely sharp.
The concave or straight edge of the blade is blunt and is considered the back 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 called hand guard or knuckle guard. The guard of a sabre usually has an arch that connects to the end of the handle and covers the knuckles. This shape provides a safer grip and extra hand protection.
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 handle, it can be wrapped in leather. Some sabres have a handle that is 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 carried in a scabbard . A sabre scabbard usually has a couple of rings attached to it, which are used to carry the sabre on a belt. Many sabres are too long and too curved to hang at one point just below the handle. They could then touch the ground, cause the person carrying them to trip, or be extremely difficult to draw from the scabbard.
At the end of the scabbard is a piece of metal called a chape.
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