These swords were designed during the period when the British army was continuing to argue on the merits of the ‘cut’ versus the ‘thrust’ of British cavalry blades. The hilt design was first introduced for the 1864 pattern, this was primarily a new hilt mated with the existing 1853 pattern blade. The Maltese Cross motif cut into the knuckle guard is a distinctive feature of these swords. British manufacturer’s struggled to keep pace with the demand for these swords and many were produced with German made blades (see page 101 of World Swords by Withers). This is an excellent original British made, 1885 Pattern British Cavalry Troopers Sword with Scabbard. The Sword’s fullered 34 ½” blade has just light staining consistent with age. It measures 39 ¾” overall length. The grip strap has ordnance inspection marks and the spine, inspection marks and maker mark ‘Mole’ (Birmingham). The ricasso has WD inspection marks and WD inspection marks. The knuckle guard has the correct pierced Maltese cross motif. The guard is marked by the British maker ‘Mole’ (Birmingham). The guard has Regiment marks (some struck out, all illustarted). It has the correct boiled leather chequered scales secured by the correct 5 rivets. The edges of the grips have some age and service related nibbles but are totally secure. It is complete with its steel scabbard which has 2 fixed hanging rings. The scabbard has WD with arrow mark & Regiment marks , some struck out (all illustrated). The scabbard has even patina. The price includes UK delivery. Sn 23174:44
£645.00