Antique Swords: m.1845 Faschinemesser from the Kingdom of Saxony

 

The Faschinemesser has become an icon among 19th century German swords, but it is much more than just a sword. The saxon faschinemesser, though late to the party of weapon/tool implements, represents the gradual transition from line formation warfare to a more modern way of fighting, characterized by a focus on engineering and defense-work that would evolve into trench warfare in WWI. A very interesting piece of military equipment, and one all sword collectors should be familiar with.