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British Infantry Officer’s Sword – 1897 Pattern (CIIIR)
€537.50
Price includes VAT.
Transport included for orders over €350 incl. VAT.
Transport included for orders over €350 incl. VAT.
In stock - can be dispatched within 2-3 days
British Infantry Officer’s Sword – 1897 Pattern (CIIIR), Compliant with traditional and official British specification UK/SC/6206 Issue 1.
Lame
Scabbard
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British Infantry Officer’s Sword – 1897 Pattern (CIIIR).
Model compliant with UK/SC/6206 Issue 1
This sabre is a ceremonial edged weapon manufactured by BALP, produced in full compliance with the official British specification UK/SC/6206 Issue 1.
Its guard bears the Royal Cypher CIIIR (Charles III Rex), marking its place within the current reign and affirming the continuity of the military traditions of the British Crown. BALP supplies ceremonial swords to officers and institutions worldwide, including the United Kingdom.
Ceremonial swords play an essential role in British Army traditions. They are worn by officers during parades, formal ceremonies, appointments and official military events. These swords are ceremonial items, designed for presentation and parade use, reflecting rank, service and regimental heritage rather than combat function.
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Historical Heritage of the Model
The British officer’s sabre is rooted in a tradition dating back to the 18th century, a period during which the sword—and later the sabre—became insignia of rank and authority, distinct from strictly operational weapons.
Over time, the standardisation of models and the inclusion of the Royal Cypher on the guard became a defining element of British military identity.
Each change of sovereign brings the adoption of a new Royal Cypher:
CIIIR (Charles III Rex) thus follows the historical succession of cyphers (VR, ER, EIIR, etc.), affirming the loyalty of the armed forces to the Crown and the permanence of the institution beyond individual reigns.
The straight blade, inherited from thrusting swords, reflects a tradition of controlled authority, discipline, and restraint, while the richness of the finishes underscores the ceremonial and protocol role of the weapon. This sabre is worn during changes of command, official ceremonies, parades, and solemn occasions, where it embodies honor and service.
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Craftsmanship & Manufacturing
Faithful to its pursuit of excellence, BALP applies very high-level handcrafted manufacturing in accordance with British standards:
This British Infantry 1897 Pattern Sword is manufactured in full compliance with the official British specification UK/SC/6206 Issue 1, aligning with the technical and ceremonial requirements defined for UK MOD dress swords.
Design geometry, balance and fittings are produced to pattern characteristics to ensure correct ceremonial handling, appearance and long-term durability.
From blade to hilt, every aspect of this saber has been developed to comply with the official UK MOD pattern characteristics while preserving the traditional proportions and ceremonial standards of the British Army.
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Technical Specifications
- Blade: Choice of stainless steel or carbon steel. Straight blade, hand-forged according to traditional methods, heat-treated and hand-polished. Deep engraving with decorative motifs and ornamentation, perceptible to the touch. Approximate blade length: 81 cm.
- Guard: Hand-polished metal guard, pierced and adorned with the Royal Cypher CIIIR, in accordance with the regulation model.
- Grip: Sharkskin-covered grip with silver wire binding, providing both elegance and an excellent, secure hold.
- Scabbard: Choose your scabbard configuration according to dress regulation and carrying system: Choice of black leather scabbard, brown leather scabbard, or nickel-plated steel scabbard fitted with two suspension rings.(1 ring uppon request).
- Included accessories: Heavy BALP-branded textile protective cover, specially designed for the sabre.
Warranty & Delivery
Each sabre is delivered with a quality certificate attesting to:
- conformity with UK/SC/6206 Issue 1 specifications,
- handcrafted manufacturing,
- and final quality inspection.
A sabre bearing the Royal Cypher CIIIR is not a mere accessory:
it embodies the visible symbol of authority, loyalty to the Crown, and the continuity of British military tradition.
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- Sword length: approx. 1020 mm.
- Weight of sword with nickel-plated scabbard: approx. 1, 480 g
- Weight of sword with leather scabbard: approx. 1, 150 g
- Weight of sword without scabbard: approx. 950 gr.
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Our commitment
Choosing BALP means choosing:
- historical fidelity
- respect for traditions and symbols
- durable, fully controlled quality
- a compliant piece worthy of institutional and ceremonial use
A sabre of tradition cannot be improvised.
It is respected, mastered, and passed on.
⚠️ Important Information – Order & Delivery
Identity verification
For any order, please provide a copy of your ID card by post or email to prove that you are of legal age.
➡️ Sale strictly prohibited to minors.
Product nature
Blade pointed but not sharpened.
Please handle with great care upon delivery and during use.
❗ Keep out of reach of children.
Regulation
Product classified as a Category 6 weapon.
➡️ Sale prohibited to minors, in accordance with applicable regulations.
🚚 Delivery times
If you require a specific delivery date, please inform us before placing your order.
Otherwise, your order will be processed as quickly as possible, subject to production constraints.
Delivery times are indicative and may vary.
Unless there is a written commitment from us, delivery delays cannot be contested.
Please note that our products are handcrafted, following traditional manufacturing processes, which require a necessary production time.
Forged in tradition, faithful to history
The requirement of a traditional forge, framed by quality standards
For four generations, BALP has perpetuated an artisanal know-how rooted in the tradition of ceremonial edged weapons, while embedding it within a structured and controlled quality management approach.
Our expertise is based on:
mastery of a traditional forge,
in-depth knowledge of raw materials,
strict respect for artisanal gestures passed down over time,
and a production organization aligned with the requirements of a quality management system.
From forging to heat treatments, from polishing to buffing, from casting to final assembly, all manufacturing processes are mastered and documented in order to ensure:
consistent production quality,
controlled reproducibility,
durability suited to ceremonial and institutional use.
This approach allows BALP to reconcile traditional craftsmanship with modern quality requirements, in compliance with applicable standards.
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Respect for traditions and symbols
Each BALP sabre, sword and accessory is developed from carefully studied original historical models.
We attach essential importance to respecting:
shapes,
proportions,
symbols and ornaments,
as well as the regulatory and ceremonial spirit specific to each model.
This historical rigor is at the core of our approach:
we do not seek to reinterpret history, but to faithfully restore its heritage, function and meaning.
This fidelity is not an option;
it is a fundamental and permanent requirement of our work.
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Authenticity before price
At BALP, we do not merely offer a product or a price positioning.
We design and manufacture authentic pieces carrying tradition, meaning and symbolic value.
Our clients’ expectations guide every decision:
priority given to historical accuracy,
high standards of execution quality,
strict respect for reference models.
Each creation follows a clear principle:
to offer a faithful, durable object, fully consistent with the heritage it represents, without compromise on authenticity or finishing quality.
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Quality control at every stage – ISO approach
Each stage of production is subject to rigorous and systematic control, from the selection of raw materials to final assembly.
This organization is part of a quality management system compliant with ISO 9001, ensuring:
traceability of operations,
process control,
consistency of production,
continuous improvement of practices.
The predominantly manual nature of our production allows constant vigilance, precise visual inspection and continuous adjustments throughout each manufacturing phase.
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Technical information on materials and finishes
Stainless steel – stability, durability and ceremonial use
BALP blades are made of stainless steel, forged and heat-treated using traditional methods.
This technical choice meets current requirements for ceremonial weapons:
natural resistance to oxidation,
no surface treatment required for protection,
long-term stability,
limited maintenance.
Unlike carbon steel, stainless steel ensures long-lasting preservation of blade integrity, aesthetics and balance, fully suited to modern ceremonial and institutional use.
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24-carat gold plating – noble finish and durable protection
Gold plating is among the most demanding and prestigious finishes offered by BALP.
It is applied using an electrolytic process, resulting in 24-carat gold plating, with a gold content between 99.3% and 99.7%.
This finish provides:
excellent corrosion resistance,
long-term color stability,
durable protection of components,
high aesthetic and heritage value.
Gold plating therefore fully contributes to the quality, longevity and symbolic dimension of ceremonial edged weapons.
Product Customization
Unique creations, designed for your ceremonies and exceptional events
Are you looking for a sabre or a sword for a special occasion, a prestigious gift to mark a ceremony, or the development of a specific product?
BALP supports you in the creation and customization of unique pieces, based on existing models or through fully bespoke projects.
We offer:
the development of specific engravings,
the adaptation of existing models,
or the creation of unique designs, developed in full respect of traditions and the intended ceremonial use.
Based on your design brief, we develop the necessary tools and keep you informed throughout the entire production process regarding the progress of your project.
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Comprehensive support, from design to delivery
Each project benefits from personalized support, provided by our teams from the initial design phase through to the final presentation of the piece.
When required, we can also prepare a detailed technical and regulatory specification, particularly for institutional or military projects.
Throughout the process, you are kept informed of the progress of your project, in a spirit of transparency and controlled lead times.
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Customization options
We advise you on the most suitable solutions for your project, from a wide range of techniques and finishes, including:
Engravings: chemical engravings, gold-plated engravings
Blade treatments: blued blades, Damascus blades
Visual identity: creation of coats of arms, colored or inlaid logos
Materials and finishes: gold-plated, silver-plated, nickel-plated, inlays (stones, mother-of-pearl, etc.)
Presentation: presentation boxes, dedicated cases
Additional elements: ceremonial helmets, specific accessories
Each customization is carefully studied in order to preserve the aesthetic balance, historical coherence and quality of finish of the piece.
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Creations for institutions and collectors
Download the engraving order form
Thanks to this approach, BALP regularly produces:
prestige pieces and VIP gifts,
ceremonial edged weapons for official events,
as well as unique pieces for private collectors.
Each creation is carried out in strict compliance with traditions, ceremonial usage and the quality standards specific to BALP.
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Entrust us with your project
To allow us to review your request under the best conditions, please provide the following information:
the type of sabre or sword required,
the quantity (from a single piece),
the type of customization or detailed description of your project,
the desired timeframe, particularly in the case of a scheduled ceremony or event.
The more precise your request, the more quickly and effectively we will be able to respond.
📩 Contact
Please send your request to:commande@balp-france.fr
Sword and Saber Care
To preserve the quality and longevity of your BALP saber or sword
In order to ensure the lifespan, aesthetics, and optimal preservation of your product, we recommend strictly following the guidelines below.
1. General Recommendations – Metal Components
Perspiration from the hands may, over time, cause oxidation of metal components.
Salt and airborne particles (marine air, dust, urban pollution, etc.) may settle on metal surfaces and promote oxidation.
Water and humidity may damage all components of the saber and its accessories.
→ Always keep your saber and its accessories away from water and moisture.
→ In the event of accidental contact with water, immediately dry using a soft, dry cloth.Regularly clean your saber and its accessories using a dry, non-abrasive cloth:
approximately once per month in aggressive environments (high humidity, proximity to the sea, high pollution),
as required in a temperate environment.
Do not use any chemical products to clean belts, sword knots, or textile elements.
Systematically remove fingerprints and visible marks after handling.
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2. Gold-Plated Components
Gold is a noble and relatively soft metal; excessive rubbing may damage the gilding.
Do not use abrasive products, sandpaper, or aggressive polishing pastes on gilded parts.
All gilded components on BALP products are genuinely gold-plated and must be handled with care.
Use only a clean, soft jewelry cloth to clean gold-plated surfaces.
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3. Blades
All BALP blades are made of stainless steel, unless otherwise specified as carbon steel.
Light surface micro-scratches may be reduced using a jewelry cloth or a very fine polishing paste.
After any polishing operation, carefully remove residues using a soft, dry cloth.
Never use heavy abrasives (sandpaper, industrial polishing belts), which would irreversibly damage the polished blade finish.
Avoid any contact with acidic or alkaline substances that may cause a chemical reaction with stainless or carbon steel.
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4. Scabbards
Leather Scabbards
Occasional maintenance may be carried out using a slightly damp cloth with a clear care product (such as a silicone-based product).
Superficial scratches can generally be reduced using standard shoe polish.
→ Ensure the polish color is strictly matched to the leather color.
Metal Scabbards (Nickel-Plated or Similar)
Maintenance is identical to that of metal components (see Section 1).
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5. Accessories
Regularly clean accessories using a soft, dry cloth.
Monthly cleaning is recommended in aggressive environments, and occasional cleaning depending on usage in other cases.
Do not use any chemical products on belts, sword knots, or textile elements.
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6. General Care and Storage
After each use, fully clean the saber or sword to remove fingerprints, perspiration, and residues.
All metal components, including stainless steel, may oxidize to varying degrees if not properly maintained or if exposed for extended periods to air or aggressive environments.
Whether displayed or stored, periodically clean the entire set (saber, blade, and scabbard) using a lightly oiled cloth to create a protective surface layer.
As storage covers may retain ambient moisture, it is recommended to place the saber or sword inside a plastic bag within the cover for long-term storage.
For long-term storage, it is advisable to keep the blade outside of the scabbard.
In the case of air transport, protect the saber or sword in a plastic bag to limit condensation caused by temperature and pressure variations.
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7. Use and Safety – Ceremonies
BALP sabers and swords are intended exclusively for parade and ceremonial use.
Blade tips may be relatively sharp; particular care is required during handling.
Blades are not designed for combat use.
Although forged, heat-treated, and manufactured to offer flexibility and durability, ceremonial blades are not intended for violent impacts, particularly blade-on-blade contact.Never use a ceremonial saber or sword for theatrical combat.
Use on horseback may result in material damage or personal injury risks.
Handling a saber or sword requires specific training; avoid excessive or inappropriate movements.
Children may confuse sabers and swords with toys; strict supervision is essential.
A saber or sword may be dangerous if improperly handled.
Guarantees & Compliance
The BALP standard: fidelity, rigor and commitment
Compliance based on traditions and official specifications
BALP products are designed to meet the requirements of official ceremonies and institutional representation.
Each saber, sword or accessory is developed on the basis of precise historical and regulatory references, in strict compliance with:
official shapes and proportions,
traditional symbols and ornaments,
protocol practices specific to each corps or institution.
Our approach prioritizes strict fidelity to reference models, without stylistic interpretation or approximate adaptation.
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A controlled and structured manufacturing process
BALP stands out through full control of its manufacturing chain, combining artisanal know-how with rigorous organization.
Each piece is subject to:
a structured manufacturing process,
systematic intermediate inspections,
a final verification prior to shipment.
This organization is part of a quality management system compliant with ISO 9001, ensuring:
consistency in production,
traceability of operations,
reliability of delivered products.
👉 Where some houses favor free-form craftsmanship or extensive production, BALP deliberately chooses controlled and managed craftsmanship.
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Materials and finishes selected for long-term durability
BALP’s technical choices are guided by stability, durability and long-term performance, adapted to modern ceremonial use:
Blades made of forged and hardened stainless steel, offering resistance to oxidation and controlled maintenance.
Manual fitting and finishing, ensuring coherence and balance.
24-carat gold plating, applied through an electrolytic process, providing protection, color stability and heritage value.
Each material is selected not for immediate visual effect, but for its ability to preserve the integrity of the piece over time.
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Clear and responsible manufacturing warranty
BALP guarantees that each product:
conforms to the description presented,
meets the stated specifications,
demonstrates consistent manufacturing quality.
The warranty covers manufacturing or assembly defects identified under normal conditions of use, excluding:
natural wear and tear,
improper maintenance,
or non-compliant use.
This warranty reflects a logic of responsibility and transparency, essential for representative objects.
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A strictly controlled legal framework
BALP products are ceremonial edged weapons, intended exclusively for parade and ceremonial use.
In accordance with applicable regulations:
sales are restricted to adults only,
proof of legal age may be required,
any use for combat, training or performance purposes is strictly prohibited.
BALP ensures strict compliance with this framework to guarantee responsible and lawful sales.
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A relationship built on trust
Choosing BALP means choosing:
a historically established house,
a clearly identified and accountable partner,
a clear, structured and fully assumed approach,
and products designed to represent, over time, an institution, a rank or a tradition.
At BALP, quality is based neither on brand effect
nor on mass production,
but on fidelity, control and commitment.
