Full length
Overall profile and curvature.
French Model 1896 Cavalry Saber
Type / Pattern: French Model 1896 Cavalry Saber
Approx. Date: c. late 19th century (post-1896 adoption)
Origin: France – likely Manufacture d’Armes de Châtellerault (or comparable state arsenal)
Current Status: Private collection (Historical Sword Society)
Abstract: The French Model 1896 Cavalry Saber represents a late nineteenth-century effort to modernize French mounted arms while preserving the cutting and thrusting capabilities expected of cavalry weapons. Its steel guard, straight or slightly curved service blade, and military pattern construction reflect the transition from traditional cavalry sword design toward more standardized modern service arms. This example is presented as part of the Historical Sword Society collection for study, documentation, and comparison with earlier French cavalry patterns.
Image Set
Use this section for detailed photographs: full length, hilt, pommel, markings, scabbard, and close-ups of condition.
Alternate view
Secondary profile of the blade.
Blade detail
Surface condition and fuller definition.
Blade close-up
Edge geometry and wear patterns.
Hilt overview
Guard and grip construction.
Guard detail
Protective structure and form.
Grip detail
Grip material and wrapping.
Pommel
Pommel shape and peening.
Ricasso
Maker marks and inspection area.
Markings
Stamped or engraved identifiers.
Spine
Blade spine and inscriptions.
Scabbard
Scabbard body and fittings.
Scabbard detail
Throat, rings, or drag.
Additional detail
Supplementary view for study.
Specifications
| Overall length | [mm / in] |
| Blade length | [mm / in] |
| Blade width (at ricasso) | [mm / in] |
| Blade thickness (at ricasso) | [mm / in] |
| Point of balance | [mm / in from guard] |
| Weight | [g / lb] |
| Fullers | [description] |
| Edge geometry | [description] |
| Hilt material | [brass / steel / etc.] |
| Grip | [wood/leather/wire/etc.] |
| Scabbard | [present/absent; material; markings] |
Marks, Inscriptions, and Identification Basis
Observed markings: [List spine, ricasso, guard, scabbard marks]
Interpretation: [Arsenal/manufacturer, inspector marks, unit marks, export marks]
Identification basis: [Pattern features, dimensions, comparison references]
References: Add citations to books, catalogs, museum collections, or archival documents.
Condition and Conservation Notes
- Blade: [pitting, active rust, polish condition]
- Hilt: [tightness, cracks, repairs, plating loss]
- Scabbard: [dents, throat fit, drag condition]
- Stabilization actions: [what was done, what is planned]
Provenance
[List acquisition details, prior owners (if known), dealer notes, and supporting documentation.]