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3eme Cuirassiers

Ceinturon, Sabre et Dragonne

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The saber, saber belt, sabre hook, and sword knot form a complete unit, the principal arm of the cuirassier.  The saber belt, our ceinturon, can be worn around the waist or over the shoulder depending upon the type of dress.  When we wear the cuirass, the ceinturon is around the waist and at the lower edge and under the cuirass.  When worn without the cuirass, the ceinturon is usually worn over the shoulder, but may be worn around the waist.

Two slings, or straps, attach the scabbard to the ceinturon.  These must be sized correctly for both mounted and dismounted wear.

belt _and_buckle.JPG (75941 bytes) saber_belt_straps.JPG (56573 bytes)
The Plateau or buckle is a separate item from the ceinturon.  Our's has a flaming grenade emblem, inserted through the buckle plate and attached by a pin on the back.  The clasp fits an eye on the other end of the ceinturon. buckle.JPG (44526 bytes) buckle_back.JPG (64789 bytes) belt_clasp.JPG (51361 bytes)
The sword hook (also called a sabre hanger) is a brass "S" hook used to keep the scabbard from dragging on the ground when walking.  You can make this item from brass rod available from most hardware stores or you can purchase it.  You will need to file the ends round and smooth, insert in front of the leading sling, and close the loop over the ceinturon ring with a pliers. Item shown is from Dixie Gun Works.  sabre_frog.JPG (62419 bytes)
Both antique and reproduction cuirassier sabers are available from a variety of sources and with a range of quality and price.  Most late period sabres had tips ground to the point as shown.  Our reproduction sabres have proof markings, etc., and provide a close representation of the originals.  The best value we have found is the sabre from IMA.
The sword knot is a strap attached to the saber hilt and worn around the wrist when the saber is in use to prevent it being totally dropped.  At full dress it hangs free while at rest. knot3.jpg (16394 bytes) serafino.jpg (66715 bytes)

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