British Officer’s 1796 Pattern Light Cavalry Sabre

Officers carried fighting swords that tended to be lighter than the trooper versions, at around 0.8kg, and show evidence of higher levels of finish and workmanship. They were also distinguished in the hilt by the grips being wire-wound (silver or gilt copper/brass) and in the backpiece having reduced-size ears, often comma-shaped, or no ears at all. Unlike the officers of the heavy cavalry, light cavalry officers did not have a pattern dress sword. As a result of this there were many swords made which copied elements of the 1796 pattern design but incorporated a high degree of decoration. This particular sabre is finished with gilt copper wire, wound around the grips and no ears on the hilt.

*Condition*

This sabre is in very good condition for its age. The wire bindings around the grip are still very clear and undamaged. The brass hilt has a few minor knocks and marks. Even light pitting on the possibly blued blade. A beautiful looking blade.

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