Revolutionary War Hanger

The war hanger saw its greatest use from the late 1600s into the early 1700s. It was particularly popular in Europe, especially Britain, during the late 17th century, and its use continued into the early 18th century. While its origins trace back to the 1600s, it became a favored sidearm for soldiers, militia, and naval officers around the time of the English Civil War (1642–1651) and the subsequent conflicts of the late 17th and early 18th centuries, such as the War of Spanish Succession (1701–1714)

Usage and Carriers

• Infantry Soldiers:The war hanger was commonly carried by foot soldiers as a secondary weapon, alongside a musket or other primary armament. Its shorter length made it easier to wield in close combat, where larger, longer weapons might be cumbersome.
• Militia and Naval Officers:It was also used by militia forces and naval officers who valued its practicality and relatively low cost. In the naval context, the compact size of the hanger made it suitable for use in confined spaces, like the decks of ships
• Frontiersmen and Colonists:In North America, the hanger became popular among colonial militia and frontiersmen, often used in skirmishes during the various wars of the 18th century, such as the French and Indian War. Some American forces, including those in the Revolutionary War, used them as well. War hangers were not as elaborate as other swords of the time, like rapiers or smallswords, but they were durable, functional weapons suited for soldiers who needed an affordable and effective sword for combat.

Based on an original of the period, Hanwei's Revolutionary War Hanger ( or Cuttoe ) is accurately sized and antiqued to replicate a museum piece. The fully tempered, high carbon steel blade has a distal taper, with fullers on both sides along the spine, and is light and quick. The hilt fittings are cast in solid steel, matching the locket and chape of the leather-covered scabbard.