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Originally Posted by MacCathain
The Swedish fascine knife m1848 was originally intended for the infantry, or at least parts of it. It seems to have become a standard infantry sidearm on the whole, and some examples are thought to have been used by police forces.
Some personnel in units of the coastal artillery were originally in the army, but transferred to the navy (which had responsibility for coastal artillery operations), and brought their sidearms with them. Some of these had the m/1848. This seems to be the extent of its use in the navy.
The trooper shown in the photo is of the Norrlands Trainkår, a train regiment, which handled the logistical requirements of troop equipment and supply.
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I think the main purpose of the fascine knife was to cut branches and small trees with which to construct fascines which were then filled with soil to create cover for infantry. So I believe it was mostly intended to be used as a practical tool rather than a weapon, although it was clearly labelled a weapon and was said to be effective in close combat. Infantry at this time mostly relied on the rifle and bayonet rather than sword. Eventually it seems to have been worn by NCOs and for guard duty etc. There was a separate cutlas for the navy (not to be confused with the faskinkniv) which is impressive with a knuckleguard.