British P1885 Cavalry Sabre
The 873mm slightly curved blade has a flat spine with a single fuller on both sides and spear point. The blade is marked on the ricasso with a “WD” for the War Department and their arrow, faint Birmingham inspection marks, bend test and YC marks and the letter “M”. The obverse ricasso has faint date stamps and inspection marks. The blade retains its point. Often the points were rounded when the sword was passed to the Yeomanry Cavalry. The blade is in overall fair condition with tarnish and mild pitting.
The sheet steel guard is pierced with the Maltese cross and an oval for a sword knot. The guard has age related tarnish and mild pitting. The front of the guard is faintly stamped with “WD”, an arrow and an inspection mark. The inside of the guard has the unit mark for the 4th Dragoon Guards and the date, November 1889. Below this is a unit mark which appears to be for the Royal Horse Artillery.
The steel back strap is stamped with a Birmingham inspection mark, the letter “B” and the number “3.” The riveted grips are firm with mild wear consistent with their age and use.
This is an ideal project sword. All it requires is time and effort to clean and polish the blade and guard. The blade is firm in the hilt.
