Definitely the Katana IMO, the 1908 is a thrusting sword, not designed or intended to cut. The Katana on the other hand is dual purpose and has many more offenses techniques that utilize both cuts and thrusts.
Thanks for the input Clay. I believe the katana is the top of sword evolution, but the manual of arms is much more complex and requires significant training I think. The British manual of arms for the saber offers fewer moves, but the sword is designed to be very quick and thrust to the natural point of user's arm thrust from what I have read.
The Calvary saber is a variant of the back sword, and is quite capable of slashing. The first several inches of top side of the blade can be sharpened easily (comes false edged), and is capable of back slashes on the backstroke or reverse draw. I think those were called hocking cuts, perhaps especially when aimed at the heel and calf of an opponent. This edge is more like a knife edge and is easily sharpened and maintained.
The katana is scary sharp, but I believe it requires more equipment to sharpen it. I have just started reading about sharpening those types of blades.
The saber also has a six inch reach advantage, even over the American sized Dragon Fly katana. I would think it offers better hand protection as well.
I love the katana and the idea of it, but the saber seems a good, quicker to learn, alternative. So I am torn on which is best....hence the request for additional input.