1796 Pattern Light Cavalry Sabre

This is a 1796 pattern light cavalry sabre from the Napoleonic era. This type of sword is one that was used primarily by British light dragoons, hussars and King’s German Legion light cavalry during the Napoleonic Wars. Prior to 1788, regiment colonels were permitted to purchase whatever swords they saw fit for their troops. This meant that for most of the 18th century the British cavalry were equipped with swords of varying quality. In 1787 a Board of General Officers was established to consider standardised swords for the British cavalry. All regiments submitted a sample of the sword currently issued to their troopers for assessment. The resulting sword for the light cavalry was a hybrid design based on the simple, straight sword that had been used by some British light cavalry regiments for 30 years, and the curved Hungarian hussar sabre.

*Condition*

This sabre is in excellent condition for its age and usage. The sword has some uniform historic pitting to the metal parts. There is minor damage to the wooden grip but overall a nice piece. Please see pictures for more detail as they form part of our condition report.

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