Cold Steel 88RS Russian Shasqua

The Shasqua is a exceptional saber, favored throughout Russia, specifically by the fierce Cossack warriors who first popularized its use. Its genesis is enigmatic, but it is suspected to have evolved from a large knife used by the ancient Cossacks for agriculture and building projects. As it looks today, it has a long, moderately curved blade, a broad fuller, and a sharp, useful point. Undoubtedly, its most distinctive feature however, is its handle which lacks a conventional guard and fits flush into the mouth of its scabbard. This grip has an interesting down-turned pommel which can be of assistance when performing a fast draw. Because the Shasqua was generally employed from horseback, this handle design aided the Cossacks in their mastery of lightning quick raids, ambushes, or the ruthless pursuit of fleeing enemies.