Persian shamshir (scimitar)
Measurements
length: 37"
blade: 31 1/2"
blade width: 1 1/4"
grip: 5 1/2"
guard: 7 1/4"
point of balance: 7 1/4"
weight (sword): 1 lb 14.4 oz
weight (sword & scabbard): 2 lb 11.6 oz
The shamshir originated in Persia and spread throughout the former Ottoman Empire and
beyond into India and even the Philippines. The strongly curved blade was enduringly
popular and absolutely ideal for delivering a devastating cutting stroke, and was very
effective at delivering rising, descending and hooking style thrusts as well. Typically,
the curved shamshir blade had a narrow cross section and a sharp point, with a simple brass
or steel crossbar hilt and an equally straightforward handle made from wood or animal horn
that terminated in a distinctively bulbous pommel. This pommel was offset slightly to help
the hand resist centrifugal force when making a hard cutting stroke. The Cold Steel version
of this historic saber replicates originals as closely as possible, with the substitution of
a modern high carbon steel blade and composite faux buffalo horn for the handle. This
style sword was the favorite of light cavalry throughout the 17 and 1800's, and is still
carried by the United States Marines as a dress saber.
Price: $300
