Scabbard

A scabbard is a sheath for holding a sword, dagger, or bayonet. It is traditionally made of leather, metal (such as steel or brass), or wood. The scabbard protects the blade and the wearer from accidental injury, and it allows the weapon to be carried safely and conveniently.

The scabbard is typically designed to closely fit the weapon it is intended to hold, providing retention and preventing it from falling out. It often features a means of attachment to a belt or other carrying system, such as loops, frogs, or clips.

The construction and ornamentation of a scabbard can vary widely depending on the type of weapon it holds, the period in which it was made, and the social status of the owner. Elaborate scabbards might be decorated with precious metals, gemstones, or intricate carvings. Simpler scabbards may be purely functional and made of inexpensive materials.

Different cultures and historical periods have developed unique scabbard designs and methods of attachment. Archaeological finds of scabbards provide valuable information about the weapons and warfare practices of past civilizations.

While the term "sheath" is sometimes used interchangeably with "scabbard," a scabbard generally refers specifically to a container for bladed weapons, whereas "sheath" can refer to a container for a wider range of objects.