Shashka (Caucasian / Cossack Saber)
Slashing / Thrusting weapon
Quick Facts
Martial Arts
OriginCaucasus (Georgia / Circassia) / Russia (Cossacks) (12th-19th Century (Caucasian Wars))
Wield TypeSingle-handed
MaterialForged spring steel without crossguard with eagle-beak pommel
Length80 - 95 cm cm
Weight0.7 - 1.1 kg kg
History
Traditional Caucasian and Cossack saber distinguished by having no crossguard. Carried blade-up in a leather scabbard, it enabled lightning draw-and-slash in one motion.
About
Lacking a crossguard reduces weight and brings balance closer to the hand, enabling acrobatic speed-spinning (Flankirovka) and cavalry slashes.