French Napoleonic 1801 Cuirassier Sword

Despite the waning effectiveness of plate armor against the increasing proficiency of firearms, the French cavalry in Napoleon’s army still wore cuirasses - Medieval-style breast and back plates - with mixed success. They were mildly useful for deflecting long-range musket and pistol fire (we emphasize “mildly”), but when combined with an ornate, gorgon-headed helmet that featured plumes and horse-tail hair, the Cuirassier’s battle dress created quite an imposing figure as he charged into the fray. Surviving accounts from British opponents attest to the petrifying spectacle of compact groups of Cuirassiers emerging from behind the French front lines.

This is his sword; the French Model 1801 Cuirassier’s sword is a heavy cavalry saber with a straight blade, as the French favored the thrust over slashing or cutting. This replica weighs a little over 3 lbs, the substantial mass needed to accomplish a lance-type thrusting attack. The distally tapered blade is over 1/4” thick at the hilt and is double-fullered like the originals. Brass guard and pommel. Leather-wrapped grip with twisted wire wrap.

Steel scabbard.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Overall Length: 109.22 cm
Blade Length: 95.25 cm
Blade Width: 3.49 cm
Blade Thickness: 0.71 cm thick at hilt, 0,31 cm thick 2.54 cm from tip
Blade Material: 1075 High Carbon Steel
Weight: 1.44 kg