Royal Navy Master at Arms' Sword

In 1827, Masters, Mates, Master's Assistants and Midshipmen were ordered to wear swords.

This was when the new pattern was introduced which is very similar to the present day sword. In 1832, the Regulations stipulated that Warrant Officers should have black grips and a stepped pommel. (Warrant Officers included Gunners, Boatswains and Carpenters.)

This ruling lasted until 1918 when it was ordered that Warrant Officers should wear the sword with white grips and the lion head back piece as that of Commissioned Officers.

The same sword with black grip and rounded pommel should be worn only by the Master–at-Arms rank, which is still regulation today.

Military Swords