During draw sword, when does the left hand release the scabbard?

During draw sword, when does the left hand release the scabbard?

• A. Before the preparatory command 'DRAW'.
• B. On the preparatory command 'DRAW' after the sword is raised to its fullest extent at a 45-degree angle.
• C. During the command 'ATTENTION'.
• D. After the sword is fully drawn and at waist height.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is coordinating the release with the cue to begin the draw and the blade’s ready-position. The left hand should release the scabbard exactly when the preparatory command to draw is given, after the sword has been raised to about a 45-degree angle. This timing lets the weapon move smoothly and safely into the draw, keeping control of the scabbard and blade as the movement starts. Releasing before the cue would break the drill and risk safety; releasing during the attention posture isn’t appropriate since attention focuses on posture, not action; waiting until after the sword is fully drawn would disrupt rhythm and delay the draw.