Pattern 1908 Cavalry Saber

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Pattern 1908 Cavalry Saber
Weapon: Pattern 1908 Cavalry Saber
Type: Cavalry Saber
Country of Origin: United Kingdom
Year Adopted: 1908
Overall Length (mm): 1100.0
Overall Length (in): 43.31
Weight (kg): 1.00
Weight (pounds): 2.2

The Pattern 1908 Cavalry Saber was the last service sword issued to British cavalry units. Designed at the beginning of the 20th century, it reflected the shift from traditional slashing cavalry tactics to a more thrusting style of combat. The saber featured a straight, narrow blade optimized for thrusting, and its bowl-shaped guard provided excellent hand protection.

Adopted in 1908, the saber was used during the early stages of World War I, although the advent of trench warfare and the increasing reliance on firearms limited its utility in combat. Despite this, cavalry units in the British Army continued to carry the Pattern 1908 Saber, particularly during the war's early mobile phases.

The Pattern 1908 Cavalry Saber remains one of the most iconic cavalry swords in British military history. Although its use in combat was limited, it represented the final evolution of the cavalry saber, reflecting the changing nature of warfare at the dawn of the 20th century. Today, it is primarily used in ceremonial roles.


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