A scabbard is a protective sheath designed to encase the blade of a sword or other bladed weapon, such as a dagger or saber. It serves not only as a practical means of safeguarding the edges and tip from damage, but also protects the wearer from accidental injury.
Historically, scabbards have been crafted from a wide array of materials, including wood, leather, and metals like steel or brass. In many cases, these sheaths were lined with softer materials—such as wool or felt—to ensure that the blade would remain snug while minimizing rust or corrosion.