Napoleonic Imperial Guard Light Cavalry Saber - Blued-Gilt Blade

This remarkable saber represents the weapon of a trooper or officer of the Imperial Guard Horse Chasseurs, Napoleon’s own mounted bodyguard and one of the most celebrated light cavalry units in European history. The blade is forged from tempered EN9 high carbon steel and is partially blued with elegant gold-toned gilt, a decorative finish traditionally reserved for high-quality officer’s blades. Imperial emblems of Napoleon’s Grande Armée are beautifully etched and gilded along both sides of the blade, creating a striking visual effect as the light plays across the deep blue steel.

The Chasseurs à Cheval de la Garde Impériale were Napoleon’s elite light cavalry and served as his personal escort and battlefield reserve. Immortalized in Géricault’s famous painting The Charging Chasseur, their sabers were known for their elegant curves and richly decorated blades. These cavalrymen distinguished themselves at battles such as Austerlitz, where they charged the Russian Imperial Guard alongside Napoleon’s exotic Mamelukes, capturing Prince Repnin himself.

During the Russian campaign, the Chasseurs famously defended Napoleon from a Cossack ambush near Maloyaroslavets. One attacker came within mere yards of the Emperor before being cut down—an incident that convinced Napoleon to thereafter carry poison as a last resort against capture.

Features

• Historically inspired Imperial Guard Light Cavalry saber
• EN9 high-carbon steel blade, tempered and battle-ready
• Deep blued finish with elegant gold-tone gilt decorations
• Imperial Grande Armée motifs etched and gilded on both sides of the blade
• Solid brass hilt with leather grip wrapped in twisted brass wire
• Protective leather washer to preserve the scabbard and hilt finish
• Decorative brass scabbard with steel chape and dual hanging rings
• Suitable for reenactment, collection, display, or ceremonial wear

Specifications

• Overall Length: 38.38 in
• Blade Length: 33 in
• Blade Width: 1.2 in
• Blade Thickness: 0.29 in at base tapering to 0.15 in
• Weight: 2 lb 2.8 oz
• Point of Balance: 8 in from guard
• Grip Length: 3.75 in
• Blade Material: EN9 High Carbon Steel
• Edge: Unsharpened
• Construction: Peened pommel
• Type: Saber
• Class: Battle Ready
• Culture: French (Napoleonic Era)
• Manufacturer: Universal Swords
• Country of Origin: India

This Napoleonic Imperial Guard Light Cavalry Saber is not merely a sword—it is a tribute to one of the most iconic cavalry units in military history. With its blued-and-gilt blade, luxurious brass fittings, and authentic Napoleonic styling, it stands as a magnificent centerpiece for any serious collector, reenactor, or lover of French military history.