Austrian officer's saber, infantry, Model 1861
length: 33 1/4"
Very nice and servicible example of a Model 1861 Austrian infantry saber.
Light and functional, an easy swing and an easy stab.
In the mid to late 1800's, infantry officers were still leading from the
front of the formation - to make things worse, they got to wear different
funky hats, making them an instant target for enemy cannon and musket (mostly
French, mostly ineffective). Nevertheless, he was expected to fight and his
sidearm was not a piece of dress tinfoil that would snap at the first
contact (i.e. 95% of all military sabers from about 1900 on ...). Springy
steel blade has some nicks, but no major damage. Steel guard is pierced for
the swordknot (missing - in fact, I've never seen one for this model), slightly
worn same (ray skin) covered grip with original wire intact. You can tell
this sword has been used, but it's still in great shape. Being used makes it
all that much cooler ... imagine the possibilities ...
blade: 27 1/2"
blade width: 15/16"
grip: 5"
guard: 5 1/2" x 5"
4/25/01