French Napoleonic 1801 Cuirassier Sword

Despite the waning effectiveness of plate armour 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 they 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 their sword; the French Model 1801 Cuirassier’s sword is a heavy cavalry saber with a straight blade, as the French favoured 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. Comes factory sharpened. Brass guard and pommel. Leather-wrapped grip with twisted wire wrap. Steel scabbard.