The British 1882 pattern cavalry trooper’s sword was the result of experiments beginning in 1878 to improve on the balance, weight and handling of British cavalry trooper’s swords. As a result of the experiments, two patterns of sword were proposed, the 1882 “Short” and the 1882 “Long.” The only difference between the two swords was in the blade length, the “Short” having a length of approximately 838mm (33 inches) and the “Long” being 900mm (353/8 inches) in length.
The first issues of both patterns of 1882 sword took place in 1883. The new swords quickly received criticisms from the field. The War Office requested further tests and in 1884 a new committee was formed to look into the development of an improved pattern of cavalry sword, resulting in the 1885 pattern sword which was adopted in November 1885.
The 1882 pattern had a very short service life before being relegated to use by yeomanry cavalry regiments. The low production numbers for the both patterns of 1882 cavalry sword mean that today it is quite a scarce and sought after item.
The 836mm single-edged blade is slightly curved and has a thick, flat spine above a deep single fuller. The blade is double-edged for the final 180mm and terminates in a spear point. The blade is in good condition with small patches of tarnish and some very shallow pitting towards the point. The blade was service sharpened.
The spine is stamped with an inspection mark and the government small arms factory name, “Enfield.” The ricasso bears a War Department arrow and WD along with a bend test X and an Enfield inspection stamp. The ricasso is also stamped with a yeomanry cavalry Y.C. mark. A later Indian Government Stores mark, I below an arrow is also present along with an F and the re-issue date of 12’90 (December 1890). The obverse ricasso bears a production date of 9/85 (September 1885) and a Birmingham inspection & reissue date of /95 (1895), at which point the sword passed from regular service to the Yeomanry Cavalry.
The sheet steel bowl guard retains the familiar Maltese Cross and has turned over edges, with the sword knot slot at the top of the guard near the pommel. The grip is of two chequered leather scales held in place with five rivets which pass through the solid tang. The guard and grip are in good condition. The guard is bright with a salt and pepper patina and the grip scales show age related wear.
The sword is complete with its sheet steel scabbard with fixed twin suspension rings on the back edge and a detachable mouthpiece. The scabbard is in good condition, free of damage and with a pleasant salt and pepper patina. The sword sheathes and draws smoothly and is held firmly within the scabbard.
This is a generally good example of a scarce British 1882 “Short” pattern cavalry trooper’s sword.
