Saber

“See that saber over there? My father carried it in the battle for Griffonsford! Taught quite a few orcs the meaning of the word Fear. I carried this saber against the Dark Hordes! What? Well, yes, orcs have dark fur, but I’m referring to…oh, never mind. The point is, I might be old, like this saber, but I remember how to use it. Learn some manners or I’ll show you a thing or two!”
— Innkeeper of the Broken Axle Tavern in Woodcatch, speaking to a rowdy patron, 1032 FB

Few weapons are as underestimated—and as unpopular, in some regions—as the saber. For ages, it was particularly favored by cavalry, for which it was designed. But now, the saber of old has largely been replaced with the Amazon saber, which is sometimes called the cavalry sword because it performs better when used from horseback. Sabers never were the best choice against heavily armed opponents, which is one reason why they are no longer as popular as they once were. Nevertheless, many mercenaries and militia members still use sabers. In fact, the sabers carried by militia members are often family heirlooms.

Sabers are particularly common in the Middenrealm and its border regions, as well as in Arania, the Horasian Empire, and in gladiator arenas across the south. Sabers are also commonly available in the Shadowlands, although there it is wise not to ask too many questions about their previous owners. Sabers are very rare in the Lands of the Tulamydes, where the Khunchomer reigns supreme.

“I would use this only if no other weapon was available. On horseback, the cavalry sword is the better choice. On foot, I prefer the long sword or the bastard sword.”

— Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary