Napoleonic French 5th Light Infantry Officer Saber – Battle Ready 1055 Steel Reproduction with Blued & Gilt Blade

This French 5th Regiment of Light Infantry Officer’s Saber represents the type of elegant yet practical sidearm that could have been carried by a commissioned officer during the Napoleonic Wars. Unlike plain enlisted weapons, officer sabers often reflected rank, personal wealth, and regimental pride through finer fittings and decorative blade work.

The blade is forged from tempered 1055 high carbon steel and supplied with an unsharpened edge, making it suitable for reenactment, ceremonial carry, drill, collection, or display. Its curved profile gives the saber the classic cutting presence associated with light infantry and officer sidearms, while still retaining a controlled point for thrust-oriented movement.

The saber’s visual appeal is centered on its blued-and-gilt decoration near the base of the blade, where Napoleonic imperial symbolism and 5th Regiment identification give the piece strong historical character. The well-cast brass hilt, black wooden grip, brass grip plate, and leather scabbard with brass chape and locket complete the officer-grade presentation.

At 35 3/16 inches overall and weighing approximately 1 lb. 14 oz., this saber is lighter and quicker in the hand than many heavier military patterns. It makes an impressive addition to a Napoleonic War collection, French Empire display, historical reenactment kit, or military edged weapons assortment.

Features

• 5th Light Infantry Officer Pattern – Inspired by French Napoleonic officer sabers associated with elite light infantry service.
• Tempered 1055 High Carbon Steel Blade – Durable steel construction suited for a battle-ready reproduction sword.
• Blued-and-Gilt Blade Decoration – Adds officer-grade visual detail and Napoleonic regimental character.
• Unsharpened Edge – Appropriate for reenactment, drill, ceremonial use, display, and safer handling.
• Curved Saber Blade – Classic light infantry profile designed for slashing movement and military presentation.
• Brass Hilt and Guard – Provides the bright, prestigious appearance expected of an officer’s sidearm.
• Black Wooden Grip with Brass Plate – Offers strong contrast and refined period styling.
• Integrated Pommel Construction – Gives the hilt a clean, historically inspired appearance.
• Leather Scabbard with Brass Fittings – Includes brass chape and locket for a complete military display.
• Made by Universal Swords – Produced by a known maker of historical reproduction swords and sabers.

Specifications

• Overall Length: 35 3/16 inches
• Blade Length: 30 inches
• Grip Length: 3 13/16 inches
• Weight: 1 lb. 14 oz.
• Blade Width: 29.5 mm, approximately 1.16 inches
• Blade Thickness: 5.4 mm to 3.5 mm, approximately 0.21 inch to 0.14 inch
• Point of Balance: 7 1/4 inches from guard
• Blade Material: 1055 high carbon steel
• Edge Type: Unsharpened
• Blade Type: Curved saber blade
• Class: Battle ready reproduction
• Pommel Construction: Integrated
• Hilt Material: Brass
• Grip Material: Wood with black finish and brass side plate
• Scabbard: Leather scabbard with brass chape and locket
• Finish: Polished steel blade with blued-and-gilt decoration near the base; brass fittings; black grip and scabbard
• Culture / Era: French, Napoleonic period
• Manufacturer: Universal Swords
• Country of Origin: India
• Included Accessories: Leather scabbard with brass fittings

History

During the Napoleonic Wars, light infantry units such as chasseurs, voltigeurs, and elite regimental companies were expected to move quickly, skirmish effectively, and operate with flexibility on the battlefield. Officers often carried privately purchased swords that combined practical military function with decorative elements reflecting rank, wealth, and regimental identity. Blued-and-gilt blades were especially prized on officer-grade weapons, giving the sword both symbolic value and visual distinction.

The Napoleonic French 5th Light Infantry Officer Saber is a standout choice for collectors and reenactors who want more than a plain military sword. Its tempered 1055 high carbon steel blade, brass officer’s hilt, blued-and-gilt decoration, and leather scabbard create a historically inspired piece with strong display value and authentic Napoleonic character. For French Empire enthusiasts, military sword collectors, or living history presentations, this saber delivers craftsmanship, presence, and period appeal.