1796P British Light Cavalry Officer's Blue and Gilt Sabre / Sword, Sold

A circa 1803 made British 1796 Pattern / Model light cavalry officer's blue and gilt etched sabre / sword and scabbard, in quite good condition and signs it was used in combat against Napoleon's French army.

Marked to Underhill & Cooper who were sword cutlers only in 1803 according to "Swords and Sword Makers of England and Scotland (Bezdek)". The blade's cutting edge has been field sharpened and there are several period nicks to that same cutting edge; it is unlikely this was done post Waterloo, so the sword almost certainly was used against the French in the early 19C, perhaps even at Waterloo.

The 30 3/4 inch blade is slightly shorter than normal, but it has not been shortened; the length clearly being the preference of the original officer owner (these sabres were used at close quarters to cut like a knife on flesh, so length was not so much as an issue with a thrusting heavy cavalry sword). Quite a bit of blue and gilt etching remains. The blade is firm in the hilt. The hilt is good and solid, the original leather grip complete but in aged condition. The officer weight steel scabbard is in quite good condition, the small mouthpiece is missing, the suspension rings missing and the internal wooden slat liners are loose, so the sword sheathes and draws a bit loosely.

Overall a very respectable sword and well under-priced at only £xxx is very good indeed, especially as there is every good reason to believe this sword saw effective use against the French. Please quote item reference K49 (1173). Further / full sized pictures available upon request.