Performance Designs Sabre2

The Sabre2 is a semi-elliptical 9-cell canopy introduced by Performance Designs in 2001. It was developed to succeed the original Sabre by improving openings, handling, and overall flight characteristics while preserving the strong flare and versatile performance that made the first Sabre popular. Over the years it became one of PD's most widely used all-around main canopies, with a reputation for reliability and versatility across disciplines.

Construction uses full Zero Porosity (ZP) fabric and a slightly tapered planform. The canopy has nine cells, with line sets typically offered in Spectra or Vectran. Its design provides a balance of responsiveness and predictability, making it suitable for a wide range of skydivers.

The Sabre2 is intended for novice jumpers stepping off student gear when sized conservatively, as well as intermediate and experienced skydivers seeking a versatile everyday canopy. It is often chosen by those who want to explore more advanced piloting, including front riser maneuvers and high-performance landings, without moving into highly specialized competition wings.

Openings on the Sabre2 are much more consistent and comfortable than the original Sabre, which was known for hard, sometimes punishing deployments. Snatch force is moderate, similar to the Spectre, with a snivel that lasts longer than the original Sabre but shorter than the Spectre. Inflation is progressive and consistent.

In flight the Sabre2 has a relatively steep glide, particularly at higher wing loadings, and a long recovery arc following riser or toggle input. When flown in brakes it descends more slowly than the original Sabre and maintains good control when returning from long spots. Toggle pressure is lighter than its predecessor, giving responsive turns and effective flat turns in brakes. Front riser input produces an efficient dive. The stall point is reasonably deep, though end-cell closure can occur during recovery from a full stall. Landings are defined by strong flare power and can yield very soft touchdowns when the flare is well timed.

Compared to the original Sabre, the Sabre2 delivers smoother, more predictable openings and improved glide performance. Compared to the Spectre, it has a steeper glide and longer recovery arc, offering more performance but less of the flat-gliding forgiveness that the Spectre is known for. When measured against the Sabre3, the Sabre2 is less refined in openings and riser responsiveness but remains one of the most proven and widely trusted canopies in PD’s lineup.