United States Swords

The sword has a proud history as part of the US military. Although fencing in particular may be more widely associated with Europe, it is still true that fencing has long been an integral part of the American military. In America's founding, guns were the weapon of choice.

George Washington famously used a battle sword about three feet long with a slightly curved blade while leading soldiers during the Revolutionary War. President Teddy Roosevelt famously carried the sword when he led the Rough Riders to attack the mountains before assuming the highest office in the land.

Members of the cavalry actually received swords, in fact the sword was the weapon of choice for mounted soldiers. It was not until the 1920s that the US cavalry discontinued full-sized swords as combat weapons.

Although swords are no longer strictly used for combat duties, many types of swords are still used for much more dignified tasks, everything from installing officers to weddings. In fact, most military personnel carry ceremonial swords, and sword training is part of officer training.

Some of the most famous American swords:

1. 1832 Foot Artillery Sword _{click here}
2. 1840 NCO (Noncommissioned Officers) Sword _{click here}
3. 1840 Cavalry Saber _{click here}
4. 1840 Light Artillery Saber _{click here}
5. 1850 Army Staff & Field Officers Sword _{click here}
6. 1852 Naval Officers Sword _{click here}
7. U.S. Marine NCOs (noncommissioned officers) sword _{click here}
8. U.S. Navy M1860 cutlass _{click here}
9. 1860 Light Cavalry Saber _{click here}
10. 1902 Army Officers Sword _{click here}
11. 1913 Cavalry Saber _{click here}
12. West Point Cadets Sword _{click here}