A saber is a type of sword. Sabers have been made and used for centuries, and their exact origins are unknown, although historians suspect that they made be related to Middle Eastern blades. Although sabers are no longer used in warfare, these blades often show up on military dress uniforms as an indicator of rank and status. A derivative of the saber is also used in sport fencing, although a true saber and a fencing saber have little resemblance.

The design of a saber is heavy, with a single cutting edge and a slightly curved blade. The handle of a saber is also heavy and arched, protecting the knuckles and fingers of the hand. These swords were designed originally for use by members of the cavalry, and they could be quite devastating, with fighters using the swords against other mounted soldiers and on people on foot. Through the 19th century, the saber was used in active warfare by cavalries all over the world, most notably among Napoleon's soldiers.

Over time, the horse was phased out of warfare, eliminating the need for mounted soldiers except on ceremonial occasions, and swords were replaced by guns and other long range weapons. However, the saber had become such an iconic weapon that many militaries came to preserve it as a ceremonial blade. You can see sabers on display in military parades and at other formal events involving members of the military, and by tradition many of these blades are sharp and fully usable.

A fencing saber is quite different. Fencing sabers have a v or y shaped blade, and they are lightweight, although very strong. Like a traditional saber, a fencing saber has a single cutting edge, and blows with the side of the blade as well as the tip are acceptable hits in competition. To prevent injury, the tip of a saber is bent, creating a button so that the blade will bend when it comes into contact with someone, rather than penetrating.

Because blows with the side of the blade are acceptable in saber fencing, saber fencing is a very distinctive and unique style. People who practice this type of sport fencing tend to be extremely agile, using an assortment of movements to corner their opponents. The entire upper body is an allowable target in saber fencing, allowing people to score hits in a variety of creative ways. Watching two skilled saber fighters in action can be quite a sight, as saber fencing tends to be fast-paced and brutal.