Original Item: Only One Available. A fine original example of a French Napoleonic Infantry Officer Sabre Briquet.
Officer’s purchased their own weapons but this sword very closely resembles one that was officially termed the An XI Infantry Sabre, it was a short curved sword carried by the Infantry, as well as the musket and bayonet. Previous larger designs had proved cumbersome and by 1767, it had become the main fall-back weapon, in combat. The briquet was a nickname given to it by the cavalry, indicating the smallness in size. However, in close quarter fighting it was a formidable weapon, especially when compared to a long unloaded musket.
This example is complete with it’s original leather and brass scabbard. It has a curved steel blade which is fire blued and engraved and a one piece molded hilt in brass. One difference between the An XI Model and its predecessor (An IX Model) are the number of rings on the grip. They were reduced to 28 from 36. The shape of the quillon was also altered.
Condition is very good for its age and it is rare to find with a scabbard.
Total Length: 34 inches