1845/1858 British Naval Cutlass

*1845/1858 British Naval Cutlass*

A British 1845/1858 Pattern Naval Cutlass, the 29" single edge steel blade stamped with a broad arrow over I to the ricasso, with black painted steel upturned bowl guard and heavy brass grip with finger rests to the inner edge, with leather scabbard.

Naval cutlasses were heavy, short-bladed swords designed for close combat on wooden sailing ships. They were not meant for fancy swordplay or dueling but rather for hacking and thrusting in the challenging conditions of crowded decks. The 1845 Pattern cutlass, based on George Lovell's design, was adopted by the Royal Navy after trials in 1841. Although the exact entry into service is uncertain due to a fire at the Tower of London storehouse, significant quantities were issued from 1845. These cutlasses served their purpose in the reduced Royal Navy following the Napoleonic Wars, providing sailors with a weapon suitable for the confined and demanding environment of shipboard combat.

The 1845 Pattern was significantly different from the 1804 Pattern. The blade, at 29+1⁄2 inches (75 cm), was the longest of any pattern of cutlass to be issued and was significantly more curved. The knuckle-guard was a simple steel bowl, providing greater protection than the double disc design, the outside of which curved outwards for additional strength (a feature retained in later patterns). The hilt had no quillon but retained the slit for a sword knot.

*Condition*
This blade is in good condition though shows some signs of service wear with minor nicks and marks to the blade and pommel. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

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