Russian Imperial Dragoon Saber with Damascus Blade – Universal Swords

This reproduction Model 1881 Russian Cavalry Saber has a blade which is skillfully forged from Damascus steel and this is self-evident in the vibrant rippled patterning visible throughout the blade. The blade itself is stamped with Cyrillic script and an 1892 production marking reproduced from historical originals. The hilt is of brass and the grip is brown-painted carved wood. The wooden scabbard is covered in black leather and completed with brass accents and fittings. A leather washer at the base of the blade protects the crossguard from colliding into the brass throat of the scabbard.

After 1881, Russian cavalry received a new sword; the 1881 model Russian cavalry saber. They also received a new designation – Dragoon. All Russian cavalry were re-organized into Dragoon units – a tactical nod to the growing difficulties traditional cavalry had with newer, modernizing infantry and artillery arms. Dragoons were cavalry units that while mounted and able to fulfill traditional cavalry duties, were trained to be able to dismount and fight as foot infantry. These hybrid units, effectively mounted infantry, were ideal at seizing objectives and harassing enemies – a role that the new Russian cavalry excelled in. Russian cavalry would play significant roles in the Russian Civil War, particularly the 1st Cavalry Army of the Bolsheviks, the Red Horse Army that would keep Imperial Forces from Moscow. Cavalry units even played a part in WWII, where their ability to cover great distances without gasoline was an advantage for resource-strapped Russia in the early war.