The only real changes Cold Steel made which drastically improve the Marine officer's saber's performance as a weapon is by forging it from 1050 Carbon Steel and properly heat treating them to a tough spring temper before sharpening. In the case of the Marine Corps Officer's Saber, they have changed the hilt to solid mirror polished brass (not easily worn gold plate) and improved the attachment of the tang to the hilt so it could better withstand the rigors of sword to sword combat. 32" blade, 37 3/4" overall. Cold Steel-88MOS