Royal Navy 1845 Pattern Boarding Cutlass

~ Royal Navy 1845 Pattern Boarding Cutlass ~

The cutlass is of all-steel construction, including the ribbed grips.

There are a couple of inspection stamps on the blade's spine and ricasso, but these are too faint to be made out other than the letters 'VR'.

There is no scabbard, indicating it was stored on board in a ship's rack. This is also indicated by the brass plaque on the guard bearing the numeral '2'.

~ 1845 Pattern Cutlass ~

Ratings of the Royal Navy has used cutlasses, short, wide-bladed swords, since the early 18th century. These were originally of non-uniform design, but the 1804 Pattern, the first Navy-issue standard cutlass, was introduced at the start of the 19th century. This was a bluntish weapon that was perhaps intended for cutting away canvas and ropes rather than as a thrusting combat weapon. The 1845 Pattern cutlass introduced a bowl-style hand guard, which provided greater protection, with a longer and more curved blade. Its sharper point made it more useful for thrusting attacks, which were now emphasised in the drill manual. The 1845 Pattern was modified several times, including shortening and straightening the blades.

~ Condition ~

Please refer to the images for the condition.

~ Dimensions ~

The cutlass is 82cm (32.5 inches) in total length with a 69cm (27 inches) blade.