Description
This sword’s design takes its roots from the Roman Gladius, the trusted short sword carried by legionaries who fought in tight formations. The French military adopted this shape in 1816, crafting a solid brass hilt with a grip patterned like fish scales,a texture that helped soldiers maintain a firm hold even in the heat of battle. By 1831, the grip was updated to feature concentric rings, offering improved control during long marches and field use.
While it could serve as a weapon, this sword was primarily issued as a practical tool. Soldiers used it to clear brush and undergrowth, making paths for artillery and infantry to advance. This everyday task earned it the nickname “coupe-chou,” or “cabbage cutter,” a nod to its role in cutting through dense vegetation rather than enemy ranks. The Model 1831 remained in service until around 1870 and influenced the design of the American Model 1832 Foot Artillery Sword.
This reproduction honors those original details, featuring a solid brass hilt and a leather scabbard fitted with brass at the throat and tip. A belt frog is included for carrying ease. The blade is sharpened, reflecting its dual purpose as both a tool and a weapon on the field.
Fun fact: The French Napoleonic Infantry Artillery Glaive wasn’t just a badge of rank,it was a soldier’s multi-purpose companion, often used to cut ropes, clear brush, and even prepare firewood, showing the practical ingenuity of Napoleonic troops.
