Rare 1896 pattern Mountain Artillery Sabre
Blade: 60cm Total 70cm
This mountain artillery sabre was issued to the Indian Army following the introduction of a special sword for all ranks in the mountain artillery batteries. Unique in the Indian army until 1889, mountain battery units had first been established in 1850 when the Hazara Mountain Train was formed. By 1889 there were eight battalions. These cut down swords were issued to Drivers and havildar
Both the blade and the mk2 scabbard are in excellent condition with no rust, pitting or blemishes. The spring holder in the scabbard is still intact and tight, and the scabbard over all is in a near mint condition with the frog.
Uniquely the chape is engraved with the service number of the solider issued with the sword
The blade is still bright and sharp with no pitting or edge damage. The mole stamp in the spine is clear, as is the 1920 date stamped on the reverse. It has a broad central fuller extending the length of the blade, with a thick unsharpened back edge coming to a hatchet point. The Brass guard is solid and free of any movement