  In p.26 allusion has been made to an improved form of sabre handle; it was first attempted by the Capitano Settimo del Frate in the work before alluded to. The gallant officer’s Plates show that in the Italian cavalry-sword the upper portion of the handle is at least horizontal, whereas in ours it droops backwards and downwards, giving the grip additional facility for slipping out of the swordsman’s grasp. The author’s remarks18 being even more applicable to the English military sabre; I give them at full length. “The equilibrium of the sabre, and the facility of firmly grasping the handle, are the two prime requisites for a good weapon. “When properly balanced and easily held, the sword calls for less exertion of strength; and the quickness and true direction of the Cuts are greatly facilitated. In direct proportion to the economy of force, we find the swordsman enabled to continue his exertion. “However well made and scientifically poised be the blade, it is subject to several variations of equilibrium according to the position in which it is held. “The nearer the centre of gravity approaches the hilt, the lighter and the better balanced will be the weapon, and vice versÂ.19 Therefore: “It should be our principal object to effect this improvement The following Plates fully explain the author’s meaning. Fig. 1. Sabre handle actually used by Italian cavalry. Fig. 2. Capt. Del Frate’s improvement. Fig. 3. Capt. Del Frate’s last modification. a. Thumb-plate. Fig. 4. Improved handle with thumb-guard. The hand grasping the actual handle. The hand grasping the modified handle. I would further modify his Fig.1, so as to give more fulcrum to the hand. The thumb-plate should be made weighty and the guard light, otherwise the blade will be over-balanced, that is, heavier on one side than on the other. It need hardly be said that the grip before going into battle should be whipped round with thin whipcord, or better still, with web-cloth. LONDON: PRINTED BY WM. CLOWES AND SONS, STAMFORD STREET AND CHARING CROSS |
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