The historical analysis indicates that the pirates were the wielders of some amazing swords, including the amazing cutlass sword. When it comes to naming some of the amazing good-quality swords that were carried on the high seas as well as the flatlands, the cutlass sword is remembered as well. In fact, the pirates weren't the only ones who were fond of the cutlass sword; this sword was equally popular among the common sailors as well. Referring to the design of the cutlass sword, it is known to be one of the categories of the short-sized swords; in addition, the cutlass sword was carried a French terminology "the cuttoe", which means a short-sized sword which includes a blade resembling the blade of a machete. Until the year of 1800, the cutlass sword was more commonly referred to as the "hanger"; however, later on, it earned its now-famous name of the "cutlass sword".
The Unique Design of the Cutlass Sword
Some analysts consider the cutlass sword to be the descendant of the famous sword wielded in the medieval era; the falchion sword. However, despite the fact that the cutlass swords, as well as the falchion sword, comprise shorter-sized blades of broad width; yet, the cutlass sword does not comprise an “angular-shaped tip of the sword blade" which bears a striking resemblance to the medieval falchion. Referring to the unique design of the cutlass sword, it can be analyzed that the sword comprised a hand-guard designed as a simple basket.
The hand-guard of the sword could also exist in the form of a simple "d-guard"; some variations of the cutlass sword had minor embellishments engraved on the hand-guard which offered slightly more material for hand-protection in contrast to the simpler versions of the cutlass sword. Typically, the sword hilt was constructed out of the material of brass as it offered more resistance to the buildup of corrosion and rust which was inevitable due to the presence of seawater.
How did the Pirates make an Effective Use of the Cutlass Sword?
With respect to the strong and sturdy design of this sword, the blade was generally viewed as a good slashing or stabbing weapon. The design of the blade of the cutlass sword increased the efficacy of the sword; the blade was not only curved but also had the perfect width to it which coupled with the short length of the blade made it perfect for stabbing and thrusting purposes. The design of this pirate sword enhanced the strength of the sword; subsequently, apart from serving as an effective combat sword, it was also used for creating pathways on unvisited islands by slashing through the wilderness and bushes.
This short pirate sword was loved by all. The machete-style pirate sword serves as a multi-functional tool for the wielders of the cutlass sword. Not to mention the fact that the scarcity of cannons and guns, lead to close-body fights among the pirates and soldiers. In this way, the cutlass sword also served as an effective weapon for CQBs. Apart from using this pirate sword during fights and clearing the wilderness; these short-sized swords also came in handy for the performance of everyday tasks, such as the cutting of ropes on the deck; cutting through the canvas, and even cutting through wooden logs. Hence, the cutlass sword was essentially a multi-functional tool for the pirates at that time.
The Popularity of the Cutlass Sword
Without a doubt, much of the credit of the popularity of the cutlass sword goes to the pirates. Some of the famous pirates of the time were William Kidd and William Fly. The historical analysis indicates that this famous pirate sword was in use by the pirates until the year 1667. Those were the times when the wielders of this pirate sword were well aware of the usefulness of it which means that they know what part of the sword to use for which purpose. It wouldn't be wrong to state that the cutlass sword served as the EDC knife of the time. The pirates knew how to take full advantage of their sword while hacking their way through a dense forest; cutting through ropes, and using the cutlass sword during the numerous battles.
