A sword has various parts. These include the Pommel, Grip, Tang, and Hilt. These parts are used to create balance and control of the sword, and they are also used to protect its user from attacks. Understanding how these parts fit together is important in choosing the right sword for your needs.
Pommel
A sword pommel is a decorative feature. Some pommels feature elaborate geometric designs. Some are made of copper and show iconographic representations on two sides. The middle figure seems to be sitting on or shooting something while the back figure is sitting with one hand under the other’s head. These pommels are very rare and would have taken a great deal of time to create. One such sword was found in 1997 by metal detectorists.
The pommel is the round termination of the handle. Its main function is to prevent the user from slipping the hand while striking the opponent. A medieval weapon’s pommel was usually richly ornamented and served as a popular location to mount the owner’s seal. Its shape was also often shaped like a saddle-bow.
Grip
The Grip of a sword is the handle used to hold the weapon. Most swords have wooden handles, but some may have metal ones. The grip is often covered with shagreen, an untanned leather. Historically, shark skin was used for grips, but it deteriorates quickly in hot climates. The invention of rubber in the 19th century changed the way grips were made. Ray skin is also popular for swords. The base of the blade is smooth, and the ricasso is often wrapped with a wire helix.
In order to execute a successful cut, the technique of holding a sword is crucial. Proper technique will increase the amount of force you can apply to the opponent’s blade. Your thumb and little finger should be directed upward and away from the palm, and your blade should be held in an upright position.
Tang
The tang of a sword is the part of the blade that comes into contact with the handle. Its purpose is to stabilize the weight of the blade and help prevent it from breaking when used. The tang of a sword should be thick enough to provide strength to the blade, and it should be softer than the blade temper. Usually the tang is only two or three millimeters thick, but it can be up to eight millimeters thick.
While most swords have decorations on the blade, some are decorated only on the visible part. For example, the pommel is sometimes cut with grooves while the tang is simply adorned with file markings. This decoration tells a story about how well the steel has aged.
Hilt
The hilt of a sword is the top part of the weapon. The pommel of the blade is crowned with a metallic cap, and the hilt was adorned with an oval ring, known as menuki. The menuki were ornaments, placed on either side of the blade, and were usually adapted in material to harmonize with the guard.
There are several different types of hilts, each with their own unique characteristics. Some swords have a crossguard, while others have a circle-shaped hilt. Samurai swords, for example, often have small guards. This allows the blade to swing easier and is less likely to tangle with clothing, limbs, or hair.
Scabbard
A scabbard is a pouch or sleeve that holds the blade of a sword. The scabbard can be worn on the belt or on the back. A scabbard is most often made of leather and is attached to the sword. The scabbard should be large enough to accommodate the entire blade.
There are four main types of scabbards. Each has its own special purpose. They are often made of leather or fabric. Leather scabbards are often fitted with metal fittings. Swords made in Greece and Rome had leather scabbards. Greek and Roman scabbards were generally small and light. During the Iron Age, Europeans began making all-metal scabbards. These scabbards were used by the European elite. They have also been recovered from ancient weapon sacrifices. Some of these scabbards had fur lining that prevented the blade from rusting.
The scabbard is typically fixed to the waist with buckles or metallic clasps. It can also be fastened with leather straps. Some scabbards have a metal fitting that allows for adjustment.
