Although firearms and cannons were already in the works during the first global war, most of the American soldiers who served were given a mishmash of bladed weapons for close quarters combat. A few were had government provided swords, while others had to make do with what was available in the camps or what was left over in the battle fields or procured privately. Some of these bladed weapons include World War I US Swords like naval cutlasses, cavalry sabers and all manner of trench knives. Naval cutlasses were relatively heavier than conventional cutlasses. During the 1st World War, these were specially made from denser steel that that could be used for thrusting while doing the worst possible damage. The denser steel also meant that it could parry off attacks from other swords. The naval cutlasses became distinct because of the cupped hand guards that were given as added hand protection.

 

   Calvary men had to carry lighter swords and the sabers at that time were more rapier-like in appearance than actual sabers. This made it easier for horsemen to place a well aimed downward thrust on adversaries on foot. However, the sabers were more difficult to use during en mass fighting, and were sometimes abandoned for broken cutlasses or smaller sabers. These smaller weapons, although technically classified now as daggers, usually came from remnants of the still serviceable but broken swords. Not only did these work better in close quarter fighting, but smaller weapons meant that these could be concealed and carried easily. This gave rise to the production of the more standardized black sheathed trench knives called Mark I.

 

Original WW1 US Swords and sword parts are very collectible. These are a great part of history and will add to your collection of WWI artifacts. Shop for your United States WW1 swords at the best prices at Swords of the Ages.