Hilt alongside his blade typology. Oakeshott pommel types are enumerated with capital letters A–Z, with subtypes indicated by numerals. The grip is the handle of the sword. It was usually of wood or metal, and often covered with shagreen (untanned tough leather or shark skin). Shark skin proved to be the most durable in temperate climates but deteriorated in hot climates, and consequently rubber became popular in the latter half of the 19th century. Alternatively, many sword types opt for ray skin instead, referred to in katana construction as the "same". Whatever material covered the grip, it was usually both glued
Iranian leather industry encourages the industry to process high added value products of leather goods, leather shoes and leather clothing so as to increase the industry's profits". 170 leather companies are still active in Iran with the annual production of 4 million and 334 thousand square feet of leather annually. Most of the leather companies belong to the private sector, yet most these factories just work with 40% of their capacity despite the high investments in leather industry in the country. Despite the industry's long history and skin hide proficiency, Iranian products have not achieved a significant place in the international markets. Iranian