A sword guard is a protective feature found on a sword, typically located between the blade and the hilt. Its primary purpose is to prevent the user's hand from slipping onto the blade during combat. Guards can come in various shapes and sizes, depending on the sword's design and intended use, such as in European swords or Japanese katanas. In addition to providing safety, the sword guard can also serve as a decorative element, showcasing the craftsmanship of the swordsmith. Different styles of guards, like the cross guard or tsuba, can influence the sword's balance and handling, making them important for both functionality and aesthetics.