Great Value This is an extremely affordable, pretty, and functional cutter. For close to $100 you get a cool piece of history that is well executed. It handles well and cuts even better. The brass guard and metal scabbard both look gorgeous. It looks and feels very much like a real antique Union Light Cavalry saber. The only problems I had with the sword are easily fixed. There wasn’t any retention in the scabbard. I gorilla glued a small piece of leather to the inside of the scabbard and it pinches down on the flat near the strong of the blade to hold it in place. It was an easy fix and it holds even when upside down. It also prevents metal on blade contact when drawing the blade. The next problem was with the small piece of cloth that is placed on the hilt to prevent contact with the scabbard when the blade is sheathed. It is loose and can easily slide down the blade. Antique sabers usually have a piece of cork but I substituted leather as a replacement for the cloth. The last thing isn’t really a problem. The wire on the grip tends to dig in to your hands. I have callused hands and I can handle the sword comfortably but some may wish to use gloves to protect the palms. I find the wire useful in maintaining a good hold.
