A hanger sword is a short, single-edged blade with a slight curve, typically measuring 24–30 inches (60–76 cm) in length. Used primarily from the 17th to early 19th century, it was favoured for its lightweight design, versatility, and ease of carry.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Blade Type | Single-edged, slightly curved (sometimes straight) |
| Length | Blade: 24–30 in (60–76 cm); Overall: ~36 in (91 cm) |
| Grip | Wood, horn, or bone, often wrapped in leather |
| Guard | Simple crossguard or shell guard; some had a knuckle bow |
| Pommel | Rounded or slightly decorative |
| Weight | 1.5–2.5 lbs (0.7–1.1 kg) |
| Sheath | Leather or metal-mounted scabbards |
Historical Context & Evolution
Origins and Use
The term “hanger” derives from how the sword was hung from a belt or baldric. First popularised in 17th-century Europe, it became a favoured sidearm for:
- Infantry & Marines – Lightweight and practical for close combat
- Naval Officers – Easier to wield in confined shipboard battles
- Civilians & Hunters – Used for dispatching game and cutting brush
Military Role
By the 18th century, hangers were standard issue for British and European forces. The British 1751 Pattern Infantry Hanger is one of the most recognised military models. However, by the early 1800s, they were gradually replaced by sabres and bayonet-equipped muskets.
Evolution of the Hanger Sword
| Period | Notable Developments |
|---|---|
| 1600s | Civilian hangers rise as fashionable sidearms |
| 1700s | Standardised as an infantry sidearm across Europe and colonies |
| 1750s–1800s | Military models like the British 1751 Pattern become widespread |
| Early 1800s | Phased out in favour of sabres and muskets with bayonets |
Legacy
- Influenced the design of naval cutlasses and short sabres
- Used in Masonic and fraternal swords during the 19th century
- Frequently found in American Revolutionary War and Napoleonic-era collections
Collector’s Guide
What to Look For
- Blade Condition: Minimal corrosion, clear markings
- Regimental Markings: British models may feature crown stamps or unit numbers
- Original Scabbard: Increases value significantly
- Decorative Grips: Ivory, brass, or carved bone enhance appeal
Market Value (2025 Estimates)
| Type | Estimated Value Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Basic 18th-century military | 300–300–800 |
| 1751 British Pattern | 800–800–2,500+ |
| Ornate civilian hunting sword | 600–600–1,500+ |
| Rare regimental provenance | 2,000–2,000–5,000+ |
Buying Tips
- Verify authenticity, reproductions are common
- Check auction houses (e.g., Rock Island, Hermann Historica)
- Avoid over-polished blades, which may lose original markings
In Pop Culture & Museums
While less prominent in media than sabres or longswords, hangers appear in:
- Museums: Royal Armouries (UK), Smithsonian collections
- Historical Reenactments: American Revolutionary War events
- TV/Film: Occasionally featured in shows like Turn: Washington’s Spies
The hanger sword remains a fascinating piece of military and civilian history, prized by collectors for its elegant simplicity and historical significance.
