Unusual Militia Cavalry Sabre

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A very unusual sabre- type sword with the hilt of a French Chassepot bayonet. Interestingly, at first glance the blade appears to be back to front.

When holding the hilt in the way intended the cutting edge of the blade (along the outer curve) faces towards the holder. 

My assumption is that this is to facilitate the thrust when used from horseback - cutting edge upper and double edged point downwards towards the intended victim.

The 33.75 inch / 86 cm curved blade is in good condition with mild age related tarnish. The blade has a long fuller and is sharpened along the outer curve and for the last 22 cm of the inner curve and terminates in a spear point.

The sword measures 97.7 cm in total.

The brass Chassepot bayonet hilt is stamped on the cross piece with the serial number 6254 and the usual French armoury and inspection stamps. Additionally, a rough triangle made up of numerous smaller triangles can be seen on the hilt and extending onto the cross-piece.

My assumption with this piece is that a member of a militia regiment took a Chassepot bayonet and removed the blade then added a sabre blade to produce a bespoke cavalry sabre. I do not think that this was something produced by an official armoury. It is however a very serviceable weapon.

This is an unusual and rare item.

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