Shashka: The Cossack Saber of Imperial Russia – Functional Replica
Are you drawn to the untamed power of the cavalry and the elegance of weapons that wrote the history of Eastern Europe? This Shashka, the legendary weapon of the feared Cossacks, is a masterpiece combining history with precise craftsmanship. It is a faithful replica of a saber whose roots go back to the mountain tribes of the Caucasus in the 12th century. If you are looking for a weapon that is not just a dead piece of metal but a living tool with a soul, you are in the right place. Thanks to the 60CrMnA spring steel blade, this Shashka offers the same flexibility and handling as the original historical pieces. Whether you are a collector, a history enthusiast, or a practitioner focusing on cutting tests, this saber will immediately appeal to you with its lightness, lack of a guard, and specific drawing style. Further product information ...
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Shashka: The Cossack Saber of Imperial Russia – Functional Replica by Hanwei
Return of the Caucasian Legend
The Shashka (from the Adyghe "sashkhwa" – long knife) is a specific type of cold weapon characterized by the absence of a classic guard and a hilt that merges seamlessly into the scabbard. In Imperial Russia, this weapon was the preferred equipment of the Cossacks, the free warriors and most feared mercenaries of Eastern Europe. Its design allowed for a lightning-fast draw and an immediate strike in a single motion, which was decisive in combat from horseback. This replica from the renowned brand Hanwei (Paul Chen) is made with an emphasis on historical accuracy and functionality. The blade is decorated with an etching of the Imperial crest, adding to its authenticity.
Usage and Handling
This is a fully functional replica, not just a decoration. The blade made of 60CrMnA steel is tempered to a hardness of 56–58 HRC, giving it excellent properties for **cutting tests (tameshigiri)** on soft targets (e.g., tatami mats, water bottles). Due to its low weight and balance, it is ideal for practicing forms and techniques in the air. **Warning:** The Shashka is supplied with a sharp edge. For this reason, it is **completely unsuitable for contact fencing (person vs. person)** or stage combat where blade contact would occur. There is a risk of serious injury and damage to the edge.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Material | Spring Steel 60CrMnA | |
| Blade Hardness | approx. 56–58 HRC | |
| Total Length | approx. 94.5 cm | approx. 37.2 inches |
| Blade Length | approx. 80 cm | approx. 31.5 inches |
| Handle Length | approx. 14 cm | approx. 5.5 inches |
| Weight | approx. 790 g | approx. 1 lb 12 oz |
| Accessories | Scabbard with fittings, leather lanyard | |
Care and Maintenance
To ensure your Shashka lasts for generations, it requires regular care:
- Wipe the blade with a dry cloth after every touch or use and oil it (gun oil or clove oil is suitable; WD40 is only for cleaning).
- The leather on the suspension and scabbard deserves occasional treatment with leather balm to prevent cracking.
- Brass parts may develop a patina over time – for a high shine, use a polishing paste for non-ferrous metals, but be careful not to touch the wooden parts.
- Do not store the weapon in the scabbard for long periods in a humid environment, as the steel could corrode.
We recommend acquiring a suitable baldric or belt for the Shashka so you can carry it stylishly and safely.
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