How to Wear a Scabbard

There are various martial arts disciplines that teach you how to use different kinds of blades including samurai swords, knives and katanas. Using swords is also common in the military. To carry a sword you need a scabbard, which is the sheath that covers the blade. Although the way to use a sword varies depending on the type of sword, the way to use the scabbard is similar among most blades. There are several things to keep in mind when wearing a scabbard.

Things You'll Need

  • Belt
  • Guard
  • Sheath
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wrap the belt around your waist. The type of belt will vary depending on the sword or blade you use. For example, Army, Marine and Air Force personnel use a leather belt up to 2 1/4 inches wide. Samurais use an obi around the waist, which is a long sash.

    • 2

      Clip the guard to your belt according to the type of belt and sword you use. The guard is where you mount the scabbard; however, not all scabbards use a guard. Some guards clip to the belt with rings, clips and or snap buttons. Other guards require you to slide the belt through the guard's belt cuts, and then you put the belt on.

    • 3

      Place the guard on the left side of your waist for Katanas, knives and military swords. If you use a different type of sword, follow the placement instructions specific to your type of blade.

    • 4

      Insert the scabbard in the guard, and make sure that it's secure and in its right place. If the scabbard doesn't use a saber guard, clip the scabbard directly to your belt using the clip, snap buttons, rings or the clipping method of the scabbard.

    • 5

      Insert the sword into the scabbard. Katanas and samurai swords are inserted with the blade face up; however, others may be inserted differently, depending on the type of sword or knife you are using. For instance double-sided swords go in any way. Once the sword is in place, adjust the scabbard on your hip to ensure that the sword doesn't get in the way when you walk.