17th Cavalry Regimental Pattern Trooper’s sword, 1918 circa (metal)

17th Cavalry Regimental Pattern Trooper’s sword, 1918 circa. In 1912, European officers of the Indian Army were authorised to wear the new officer’s version of the revolutionary Pattern 1908 sword for British Army other ranks. Indian cavalrymen did not receive their version of the 1908 pattern until 1918; when they were issued to the 17th Cavalry is not known. The bowl of the hilt would appear to be general Indian Army issue manufactured by Wilkinson Sword Company Ltd, although the grip may have been taken from a contemporary officer's sword. The blade is curved, thus completely negating the trusting purpose of the 1908 pattern, suggesting that even at this late stage the Indian Cavalry still preferred a purely cutting blade.