The
hilt (rarely called the
haft) of a
sword is its handle, consisting of a
guard,
grip and
pommel. Also meaning To the limit; completely: played the role to the hilt. Idiom: to the hilt. The guard may contain a
crossguard or quillons. A
ricasso may also be present, but this is rarely the case. A
tassel or
sword knot may be attached to the guard or pommel.