How can I find a functional and sharp Sashka style saber?

by Derrick
(Florida, USA)

QUESTION: Hi, I'm interested in becoming proficient in saber style swordsmanship, specifically the shaskha with the guard-less hilt, and have a cheap (yet durable when not striking things) replica of the type, I was wondering if you knew of any way I could find a functional shashka that would actually be sharp and cut and most importantly not break (and isn't 200 years old and 2000$!) in order to become truly proficient in its use. None of the "sword stores" I see online have this style of saber nor do I know how to truly make sure it is a combat capable strong and sharp blade. Any suggestions on where I could find this would be great!

ANSWER: There is one doing the rounds called the 'Russian Kindjal' which is pretty similar and I believe that it is made in India from high carbon steel by either Deepeeka or Windlass (some sites say it is a Windlass, others say it is a Deepeeka - I'd say it's probably the latter as the average price is around $50).

I've often considered getting it myself because it is so cheap, so would be worth a look if you buy it from a reputable dealer such as those listed in the Sword Buyers Directory (I'm pretty sure Kult of Athena stocks them).

Hope this helps.

- Paul

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Kindjal vs Shashka
by: Claude

The Kindjal is similar in pattern to the Shashka, but is about a foot shorter. It's the dagger used in the Caucasus.
The only reproduction shashka I've seen so far is the Windlass Shasqua sold by Atlanta Cutlery. This is a replica of the Soviet blade with the hammer and sickle emblem.

difference
by: Anonymous

Kindjal is a dagger, double edged and straight blade, sashka is a sword, curved blade! Both are cossack weapons, but not similar in look and size.

sashka from Hungary
by: Dezso

Hi!

There is a sword master in Hungary, who makes Shashka also. It takes about 40000 HUF.
Name: Perutek Istvan (the Google will help).
My shaska made by Mr. Perutek and is very nice.

Sashka sword
by: Anonymous

Hello! I have an original Sashka sword, without scabbard. It is dated 1941, the marking is on the blade. I am from Romania. If you are interested, make an offer.

Cold Steel Shaska
by: Anonymous

Cold steel make a battle-ready version (read battle ready as 'better than what most cossacks actually carried into battle'. It's pricey but more than worth it.

http://www.coldsteel.com/Product/88RS/RUSSIAN_SHASQUA.aspx

study the Shasqua before you buy
by: Anonymous

My advise if looking for a replica, go with Cas Iberia or Cold Steel. If looking for an original, you will find that there are some makers in the Balkan Regions. If you have the dollars and knowledge, you will find some reputable dealers that have authenticated Shasquas. Be very cautious with what you may find over ebay. On ebay at one time some Cossacks from the Ukraine were selling replica Shasquas. Also, there were then and even now no practice Shasqua's. The Cossacks practiced their Slavic Sword Martial Arts with the sharpened Shasqua. No if or buts about it. They still train the same today. There are many different styles of the Shasqua. One can be near straight or curved. They can be had with only a flat grind to having up to 4 fullers. Do not let someone try to sell you a sabre with a guard as a Shasqua. It is not. The Shasqua has no guard and sits down into the scabbard. Do your research. If in the NYT area, you may wish to visit 'Little Odessa'. There are also many Cossack Communities throughout the States. My Slavic Cossack Grand Dad was Russian Orthodox Christian and never referred to his Shasqua as a sabre. It is a shame that it was taken from him when he came through Ellis Island never to be seen again. The true History of the Cossacks is very rich and worth studying. Also, the proper spelling is TSAR and not czar.

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