A Magnificent Example

Because British cavalry officers always led their men from the front, the officer's charger was the most imposing horse on the battlefield – a larger, more powerful animal than the ordinary trooper’s horse.  This called for a weapon of comparable dimensions, and the Household Cavalry Officer’s sword is the longest in the British Army.

However, this is primarily a ceremonial sword.  Only one regiment, the 1st Life-guards, actually carried it into battle.

Click image to enlarge

Household Cavalry Officer’s Sword

This 1874 pattern sword is carried on state occasions by officers of the  Life Guards and the Blues & Royals.  Its heavy, single-edged blade is a straight cut-and-thrust pattern.  This is combined with an ornately chased and pierced bowl of nickel-plated steel, to which is attached the brass regimental badge with brass studs and embellishments.

The nickel-plated steel scabbard carries scallop-shaped mounts and a shoe, both in polished brass.

Regiments

Regiments:
The Life Guards
The Blues and Royals