In the sword-drawing drill, the left hand grips the scabbard on which command?

• A. Preparatory command DRAW
• B. Command DRAW
• C. Final command DRAW
• D. None

Answer: (A)

In this drill, the left hand grips the scabbard on the preparatory command to set up a controlled, ready stance for the draw. Gripping early stabilizes the sheath, positions the body for a clean release, and allows the right hand to execute the draw smoothly when the actual command is given. If you waited to grip only at the draw command, the motion would be less controlled and slower, increasing the chance of a snag or imbalance. So the preparatory command is when you secure the scabbard and prepare for a quick, precise draw.