The Drummers’ Sword was his only source of defence during the late 17th century. Since many of the Drummers and Fifers were small in stature, it was necessary that the blades of these swords must be either short or curved like light cavalry sabres so they did not drag on the ground.

The cross hilted “Romanesque” style sword which was then relegated to Volunteers and Militia was replaced by this Drummers’ Sword in 1895.The blade of the sword was shaped like that of the 1888 pattern Lee-Metford rifle bayonet and the pommel was urn shaped in design. The hilt was polished in brass.Drummers’ Sword with Scabbard

It was declared obsolete in 1903. Interestingly, the List of Changes of 1901 stated that all swords including the The Drummers’ must be sharpened ‘before going on service’.