Champagne Sword in Wooden Box (French Napoleonic Briquet Sabre)

A short-bladed sabre of French origin, the so-called briquet was introduced in the late 18th century and became one of the most popular infantry swords of the Napoleonic era.

The briquet (French for flint stone, fire striker or fire lighter) is believed to owe its name to its shorter size and resemblance to the lighters used by the troops at the time. At first a derisive neologism, it eventually became the official name for this particular type of sabre. During the Napoleonic Wars of the early 19th c., the briquet was not only an effective melee weapon, but also a handy tool used for example to clear undergrowth.

I drink champagne when I win, to celebrate... and I drink champagne when I lose, to console myself. (Napoleon I)

It is said that it was the famous French commander and emperor (or rather, in all likelihood, his officers) who invented the tradition of sabrage to celebrate the victories or get over the defeats of the Napoleonic forces. This dramatic way of opening a bottle of champagne with a flourish, using the blunt spine of a sabre, is still used to this day for ceremonial or celebratory occasions.

The champagne opener we offer here is clearly shorter than the iconic infantry sabre on which it is based, and rather resembles a large knife. Yet, it closely replicates the design and characteristic features of the original French briquet. The slightly curved, blunt blade with a thick spine and a pointed tip is made of low maintenance stainless steel. The hilt is crafted from aluminium and features a typical D-guard that terminates in a short, downturned quillon.

To keep the champagne sabre intact when in storage or during transport, a stylish wooden case bound in dark blue velvet is included in the delivery. The case is, of course, also perfect for display purposes.

Please note that this short sabre is not a battle ready weapon and is not suited for combat re-enactment. It is primarily designed to pop champagne and also makes for a nice collectible, decoration piece, prop or gift.

Details:
- Material: stainless steel blade, aluminium hilt
- Overall length: approx. 42.5 cm
- Blade length: approx. 29.3 cm
- Blade thickness: approx. 5 mm (cutting edge approx. 2 mm)
- Hilt length: approx. 13.2 cm (grip approx. 10 cm)
- Max. blade width: approx. 4 cm
- Point of balance: approx. 6.5 cm
- Incl. wooden presentation case with dark blue velvet cover
- Dimensions of case (L x B x H): approx. 49 x 17 x 4 cm
- Weight: approx. 630 g
- Weight with case: approx. 1280 g

Specs may slightly vary from piece to piece.