"Black Fencer" Infantry Saber

The 1796 Infantry Sabre was the standard weapon of the British forces from 1796 to 1816. Inspired by Hungarian sabres, it was widely used during the Napoleonic wars. This reproduction by Black Fencer offers HEMA practitioners a unique opportunity to explore the sabre combat techniques of this pivotal period in European military history.

Design and materials:

This sabre simulator is the result of a collaboration between Black Fencer and HEMA experts. The curved blade, made from a high-density nylon alloy, offers moderate flexibility (static load of 14.7 kg) that faithfully reproduces the characteristics of a steel blade while ensuring the safety of practitioners. The stainless steel guard, inspired by the historical model, provides adequate hand protection while respecting the aesthetics of the time.

Benefits for HEMA practitioners:

With its total length of 95 cm and a light weight of 700 g, this sabre offers exceptional manoeuvrability, allowing the liveliness of light infantry combat techniques to be reproduced. The balance point, located about 12.5 cm from the guard, allows excellent control for the cutting techniques characteristic of sabre handling, while providing enough precision for thrusts. The moderate flexibility of the blade allows for safe practice of the cutting and parrying techniques described in the military manuals of the time.

Improvements in Version 4.0:

• One-piece blade for better durability
• Pommel fixed by a steel rod to prevent any rotation
• Improved overall finish quality
• Handle covered with durable and comfortable rope
• Reinforcement at the guard for better impact resistance
• Optimized blade curvature for increased realism