Trying to identify Pattern 1827 Volunteer Rifles British sword maker

[PMFerringer]

I have acquired Model 1827 British Volunteer Rifles sword. The sword and sheath are in great shape. Based on the blade shape I know it is a post 1845 production, but am having issues matching the maker name or the proof to any of the rather limited resources available on the old interweb. The scabbard is all steel which some suggest indicates it is pre 1870. The problem is the pattern didn't change at all from 1846 to 1890. The etching is in great shape but other than the stamps at the base of the blade there are no stamps or marks that I can see.

The woman I purchased it from said she found it in Tennessee. Beyond that I got nothing out of her. It has clearly been taken care of and I doubt it was carried in the field much based on the condition of the grip and the lack of dents in the scabbard. If anyone has any knowledge they can share related to the stamped marks at the base of the blade I would greatly appreciate it. Given the location of the find I would really like to narrow the date down. I have also included pictures of the main blade markings. Sorry for the glare.

Thanks,
Patrick

[erik]

Re: Trying to identify Pattern 1827 Volunteer Rifles British sword maker

Your sword is a Volunteer Rifles sword of the 1827 pattern for Rifle Regiments.
The Volunteer movement was born and grew in the 1850's. Equipment was purchased privately following Government patterns.
This is an officer's sword and would have been bought from a military supplier, probably the recommended supplier to the unit.
The 6 point star is a proof mark to show that the sword has passed the proof test. Where and to what standard I cannot say.
The name of Carter I cannot find in my "Swords of the British Army" by Brian Robson.
The engravings on the blade are pretty standard but omit a name or unit, which I have seen on some swords.
I cannot see if the blade has a pipe back. This absence makes a later blade.
I cannot see a Civil War connection unless it was brought to the US by a former British officer in order to fight there.
David Burt, with his vast knowledge of British makers, should weigh in on this.
I will look further.

Erik Simundson

[PMFerringer]

Re: Trying to identify Pattern 1827 Volunteer Rifles British sword maker

Erik, it is the later (post 1845) Wilkinson style blade. The proof six point star does not match any patterns that I can find tying it to a maker. Same with the name Carter. I have not found any unit or individuals name on the blade within any of the etching which is a bit interesting as well.

[erik]

Re: Trying to identify Pattern 1827 Volunteer Rifles British sword maker

Sloppy for me not to state the 1845 pattern when remarking on a later pattern.
I will keep digging.

Erik Simundson

[10TnVI]

Re: Trying to identify Pattern 1827 Volunteer Rifles British sword maker

I have a question-is the 'crudity' of the etching typical of period manufacture for these weapons?

[PMFerringer]

Re: Trying to identify Pattern 1827 Volunteer Rifles British sword maker

The etching on this blade is pretty typical of the period. Given the tools at their disposal I think the etching is pretty sharp. Obviously sword makers of higher caliber will have a better end product.