Guide to Swords & Sabers of the American Revolutionary War

Soldiers fighting in the American Revolutionary War utilized a wide array of weapons and tactics. Many associate the musket with the Revolutionary War, and for good reason. 

This weapon and other firearms were widely used by both sides in the war. While slow to reload, the musket and other 18th century firearms seemingly took the place of swords as the most efficient and effective type of weapon for Continental and British soldiers.

However, the humble sword still has its place in the history of the American Revolutionary War. A weapon used for thousands of years prior to the war for independence proved to be a deadly weapon and a symbol of leadership. 

In fact, the reality of the musket’s slow firing capabilities meant that soldiers required a reliable secondary weapon. The sword was used by officers, infantrymen, and everyone in-between. 

From ceremonial presentation swords to highly practical cavalry and infantry weapons, the sword was a key item in the Revolutionary War. 

The following is a list of some of the most popular sword types used by the Continental and British sides. This is by no means a comprehensive list of sword styles. We have intended this article to be an excellent starting point for your research, or a simple guide for history enthusiasts. 

1) Presentation Sword

The presentation sword of the late 18th century was a ceremonial weapon given to officers for meritorious conduct in battle. 

This style of sword did not see combat, but instead was a work of art crafted by skilled swordsmiths. Presentation swords possessed ornate hilts and imported blades. 

Common decorative elements included the arms of the United States, personalized inscriptions, and enameling in gold and silver. 

Many early American presentation swords have characteristic eagle-headed pommels. Floral designs from France and Germany are also common. 

2) Smallsword 

The smallsword, or small sword, is another 18th century sword that was more of a status symbol than a practical weapon. Smallswords made up a gentleman’s formal attire and were common fixtures of officers’ uniforms. 

The specific designs of smallswords varied. Some were simplistic in style but crafted from the best materials available. Others could be ornate and incorporate many popular design elements. 

3) Cuttoe 

The cuttoe, or hunting sword, was a popular sword among Continental officers. It functioned much like the civilian smallsword and displayed a man’s rank. 

Swordsmiths crafted cuttoe swords with silver hilts and ivory grips. This style was made famous by respected smiths like John Bailey of New York. 

4) Highland Broadsword

The Highland broadsword originated in Scotland and was a popular weapon among Scottish and British soldiers in the Revolutionary War. 

Infantrymen and dragoons utilized the Highland broadsword. The long blade was efficient and deadly on the battlefield. 

5) French Model 1767 Infantry Officer’s Sword

Once the French entered the Revolutionary War as America’s ally, French sword styles became even more common among soldiers. 

The French Model 1767 infantry officer’s sword, or épée d’officier, was commissioned by Marquis de Lafayette in 1779 for use by the Continental infantry. 

The French sword had an engraved, tapered blade that was really only used for thrusting maneuvers. This made it rather impractical for most combat scenarios. 

6) Cavalry Long Saber

The cavalry functioned much the same way during the Revolutionary War as it had for hundreds of years. The main job of the cavalry during the War was to act as shock troops who charged at great speeds. 

The speed of the horses combined with cavalry swords made this group of fighters especially lethal. The cavalry long saber was the most important weapon of light horsemen of the Revolutionary War because it had the ability to cut down the enemy with efficiency. 

While firearms could be inaccurate and slow to reload, the cavalry sword’s single edge helped cavalrymen fight with relative ease. 

7) Infantry Hanger

The hanger is a short sword measuring around 25 inches in length. It was utilized by infantrymen as a secondary weapon to the musket. 

Most hangers had blades imported from Europe. Hilts made of brass mimicked the styles of British swords.