*Rare, British, Royal Navy, Boarding Pike, 1800 Model, Maker Marked “R. Butcher” and “J. Peard”.
Overall 232cms long.
It is very rare to find an 1800 Model Pike with makers names and inspection marks. Burnt into the wood in two places between the elongated langets “R. Butcher” and once “J. Peard”. Crown over 87 on the spear tip.
This 19th-century Regulation Royal Navy Boarding Pike follows is an early 1800 Model. It features a triangular-sectioned regulation head with twin lancets securely screwed into a shaft, likely made of ash. Distinguishing it as an early 1800 Model, it sports a four-sided spike and elongated langets, in contrast to the 1888 model with three-sided triangular spikes and shorter langets. The 1800 Model, measuring 58cm in total length for the spike head and langets, also boasts a riveted steel shoe approximately 24.5cm long. Notably, the model’s steel butt shoe, originally covering the entire wooden butt and terminating in a pointed end, was often shortened, at the time, due to its tendency to penetrate ship decking and pose potential harm to sailors standing behind the pikeman. This adjustment, either carried out aboard the ship or at the Ministry of Ordinance, aimed to mitigate risks. (The 1888 Model, in comparison, incorporates a formalized short single riveted 2.5″ steel shoe.)
Before the introduction of rapid-firing pistols or rifles, the Boarding Pike played a crucial role in effectively warding off boarders attempting to climb the side of a wooden hull or swing into raised defensive protective netting. The spike or blade of naval boarding pikes was deliberately thinner and sleeker than traditional spears or lances. It lacked any protrusions, ensuring a seamless and smooth integration with the wooden shaft or haft. This design was essential to prevent the blade or spike from getting entangled in the protective netting, associated rigging, or any downed rope or canvas sail, allowing it to navigate through without obstruction.
*Condition*
This is a unique find in excellent condition. The butt adjustments are in keeping with the 1800 Model and would have been made at the time. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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