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.)

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