Although Cold Steel calls this the 1830 Napoleon Saber, it is likely a typo – it is actually the AN IX / AN XI Napoleonic saber.
The Sabre Cavalerie Legere AN XI is the classic sword for the light cavalry of Napoleons Grand Arm. A widespread design, it was to the French cavalry what the 1796 saber was to the British cavalry. It is the 2nd inception of the three-bar hilt, which became a common hilt style on many military swords of the 1800s. (The first being the AN IX – a very similar sword to the XI).
The AN XI model saber was part of larger turn of the century program to modernize French military equipment. Until then, most light cavalry swords had the older Hussar style hilt with its single characteristic knuckle guard. It would take time to produce and phase the new sabers into the vast ranks of the Grand Arm – its first enthusiasts were the Chasseurs cheval who readily adopted the new design in 1803 and would have their regiments uniformly equipped with the new sword within a few years. This was not so with the characteristically stubborn Hussars, who preferred their typical Hussar Hungarian-inspired swords – likely because it was a better match for their ostentatious uniforms. They would not begin to carry the AN XI in significant numbers until as late as 1812. The sword was also issued to the horse artillery and the later Lancer Cavalry
The designation AN XI is a reference to the French Revolutionary Calendar that, at the time, officially replaced the Gregorian Calendar used since the founding of the French Republic in 1792. The XI is a reference to the 11th Year (1802) of the founding of the Republic.
Even though the sword was eventually superseded by later models it remained a popular blade for a decade after, co-existing among newer designs. It would also be the inspiration for the US M1860 Cavalry Sword.
The Cold Steel Napoleon Saber features a thick, moderately curved blade forged out of 1055 Carbon steel and features a long, wide fuller and a very sharp, practical point. The grip of the Napoleon Saber is equally well made. It is wrapped in black leather and strongly protected by a stout, brass three bar hilt. The whole package comes with a heavy duty polished steel scabbard with dual rings so it can be easily attached to your baldric or sword belt.
James Whitworth –
Cold Steel makes good sabers. Cold Steel doesn’t make the best swords out there but their sabers are second to none. Personaly, I think it’s because Lynn loves sabers. Most other brands have poorly tempered blades made for reenactment. Not cutting. The blade has a good feel and is lively in the hand. One may even call it light. At least by reproduction standards. This is most likely do to the distal taper and wide fuller. The Prussian saber they make is a bit more agile but it’s not nearly as good at cutting.
The hilt is solid and is quite comfortable. The brass has a nice glow to it as well. The scabard is also wood lined, unlike my Prussian saber. Which makes it heavier but it doesn’t dull the blade either.
Overall it’s well made and, despite not being entirely historically accurate, it’s well designed. If you want a functional saber look no further than Cold Steel.