Description
This short saber first appeared in 1767, just before the French Revolution, designed to replace the heavier, less practical swords like the fusilier’s épée. Soldiers quickly nicknamed it the “Briquet,” meaning “fire lighter,” a name that stuck and was officially adopted by 1806.
The blade’s slight upsweep made it well-suited for close-quarters combat, allowing for effective slashing, while its sturdy length and thickness made it a reliable thrusting weapon. Napoleon’s infantry, artillerymen, grenadiers, and non-commissioned officers all carried this compact sword as a trusted companion across many battlefields in Europe. Beyond its role in combat, the Briquet was often put to practical use in camp life, serving as a field tool. And when the fighting was done, it was famously handy for popping open bottles of Champagne. The blade tapers toward the point, and it comes factory-sharpened, housed in a leather scabbard with brass fittings.
Fun fact: The Briquet was so favored by French troops that its distinctive design endured through decades of warfare, remaining in service even as newer weapons emerged, reflecting the soldier’s preference for a dependable and manageable sidearm.
