The sword knot used by Navy officers began its existence as a lanyard for sword-bearing soldiers: Before engaging the enemy, they would tie one of a cord to their sword handle and another to their wrist, ensuring their primary weapon would not be lost even if they completely relaxed their grip upon it.
But sword knots moved from the roster of utilitarian devices to ornamental appurtenances as the sword’s combat usefulness waned with the advent of revolvers. Still, the sword, sword knot, and sword belt are all prescribable uniform items for all Commissioned Officers in the Navy in the rank of Lieutenant Commander and above (they are optional but highly encouraged for Lieutenants and below). Our sword knot is manufactured with brilliant gold bullion that perfectly complements the gold used in the construction of the Navy sword and scabbard.
When attached properly, the knot will hang down from the uppermost section of the sword guard while the sword is scabbarded. Easy-to-follow instructions are found in Article 3501.84 of the Navy Uniform Manual posted online at the Navy Personnel Command Web site.