French brass hilt short swords were specifically made as fraternal or society swords used as practice swords of pupils in the French Ecole de Mars Revolutionary Military Academy back in 1794-1795. Other books said that the swords came from an Independent Order of Odd Fellows as listed in the 1800s catalog of Ames Sword Company.

 

Judging from its craftsmanship, it is obvious that the sword is not made for combat. The blade point is blunted which makes it useless for thrusting, cutting or slashing. Aside from that, the blades are double-edged but the edges are flat and unsharpened.

 

As the name implies, French brass hilt short swords have hilts, pommels and ferrules that are made of cast brass. It is comparable to the neoclassic design of the Roman Gladius short-swords. It has grips adorned by 12 rows of either feathers or fish scales. The cross-guard that ends in 90 degrees angle seemed to lack quillon finials. The blade is attached by slightly deforming the tang to perfectly fit into the hilt. It has a slight curved on the hilt which acts as a knuckle-guard.

 

Another noticeable feature of the French brass hilt short swords is the distinct adornment on the scabbard. It is usually brass-plated and steel-sheeted covered with velvet cloth. The color depends on the rank of its owner.

There were various replica of this type of French ceremonial sword which makes it difficult to identify its original version. Collectors of art swords such as this one are still conducting individual research to determine the value of this 1700s artifact.

 

Brass Hilt Short Swords are available here for sale. These are great collector swords and will add to any collection. Get your Brass Hilt Swords and all your swords at Swords of the Ages.