How to Size a Military Sword

An Academy Sword

In the 21st century, military swords may have lost their practicality as common weapons but are still symbolic of the military or service position of the wearer. Sizing a military sword is a simple procedure using a tape measure. Military swords tend to come in one-inch increments and are sized by two separate standards that depend on the sword type. The correct sword length is based on the arm and neck length of the wearer.

Instructions

1. Stand straight with your arm and your fingers extended downward along your side.

2. Use the tape measure up to determine the length in inches from your eye to the crux between your thumb and index finger.

3. Record the measurement and subtract three inches for the following types of swords: Army officer, Navy or Coast Guard officer, Marine Corps non-commissioned officer or Public Health Service officer. Record the measurement and subtract two inches for these swords: Army non-commissioned officer, Marine Corps officer, Air Force officer or non-commissioned officer and all military academy swords.

4. Take the modified length and round down to the nearest sword length, if your measurement is within one inch of a sword size; if your measurement is within half an inch of a sword size, round up to the larger size.

References

• Militarysabers.com: Sword Measurement