A couple of years ago, I had a subscription the the monthly The Highlander. In one of the issues, it had an article about Scottish baskets that were cut down to a mortuary hilt style for the Scottish cavalry. Some of the swords were by very reputable makers in Edinburgh and Glasgow. They included some that were custom made for the officer and not just issue swords. Presumably these baskets were cut down to follow the new standard issue pattern for Scottish cavalry. A terrible shame if you ask me. I dont know for sure if it was required or if it was just encouraged, but appears to have been a stop gap measure. As newer purpose made swords came out the practice stopped. Has anyone seen any of these cut down baskets. The pics in the article were good b/w pictures, but as the paper was more of a newsprint type they didn't show very fine detail. If I find these old issues, I'll try to scan some pics and text for the folks here. The basket was generally cut down to the second bar on each side and while giving the trooper a bit more room for his hand, it just butchered the looks. Does anyone know of another resource to find some examples of these rare pieces?

Hi Tom,
I'm assuming that you're talking about baskets of the 16 and 1700s that were modified, right? I ask because I have seen such items at English auctions, but they don't show up often. I've also seen one from the early 1700s that had the wristguards and sideplate removed from the left side only, making a 3/4 basket out of a full basket. Also one large English cavalry basket that had had the left saltire plate removed, enabling the cavalryman to use his reins with his right hand while holding the sword.

--ElJay

Someones beautiful hard work, sacrificed for a better grip!

Hi Tom
Fair's fair. Wouldn't you do that if you had to put your life on the line? I'd agree with you if it was another collector, rather than a soldier. I know if it was me I'd cut down the basket, parry with the edge, paint the damned thing pink or whatever else if it helped me stay alive. Still, just my opinion.
Geoff

Pat Tougher has this sword up at his site, not a dragoon sword:

[ Linked Image ]

The British National Maritime Museum has this one, belonging to a naval officer long after the presumed date of manufacture:

Broadsword (WPN 1117).

Armour Class has this replica dragoon sword, which looks cut-down a bit:

[ Linked Image ]

By the way Scott, thanks for the link to Collections Online. Very much what Im talking about.