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29th July 2021, 08:19 PM | #1 |
Member
Join Date: Oct 2017
Location: North East England.
Posts: 107
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There was some discussion quite a while since among collectors regarding the oval ring, the thinking being that it was there in order for a horseman to be able to quickly pass the sword temporarily to his left hand where his fingers could safely grip it through the ring till the user needed to take it back ready to use in his right hand. I really can't remember if anyone put forward any provenance.
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29th July 2021, 09:35 PM | #2 | |
Arms Historian
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Location: Route 66
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Quote:
Again, thank you for this entry!!! |
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30th July 2021, 12:50 AM | #3 |
EAAF Staff
Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: Louisville, KY
Posts: 7,143
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I've often seen people post this theory for years. Since I don't ride horses nor have a Scottish basket hilt pre-1800 (), I have no idea.
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30th July 2021, 03:17 AM | #4 | |
Arms Historian
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Quote:
Even the 'experts' dont know for sure, but just present the most plausible answers. |
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30th July 2021, 04:26 AM | #5 |
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Join Date: Dec 2004
Location: NC, U.S.A.
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I personally think the ring is so you can hold the basket and your fingers can still hold your pewter shot of Drambuie
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30th July 2021, 06:16 AM | #6 |
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Location: Route 66
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30th July 2021, 12:08 PM | #7 |
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Join Date: Dec 2014
Location: Scotland
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I can just imagine what's going to happen to your shot of Drambuie as you're charging at the enemy!
Back to the subject - I have a basket hilt horseman's broadsword (with a good broad German blade) of the Royal Regiment of Horseguards, c1750. By trial and error I reckon that it is easier to transfer the sword to the left, reins, hand, inserting the left thumb through the oval thus enabling you to draw your pistol with the right hand rather than trying (and fumbling) to insert the reins into the right-hand fingers through the oval, thus freeing the left hand to draw a pistol. Haven't tried this on horseback so might be on a wild goose chase. Neil |
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