Cutlass or Hanger?

From the battle of Lepanto to the mid-19th century.
paul.mercer
Senior Member
Posts: 1228
Joined: Fri Mar 26, 2010 10:25 pm

Cutlass or Hanger?

Post by paul.mercer »

Gentlemen,
This may be a bit later than 1860, but in 'Nelsonian' days when boarding ships was in vogue the crew were often issued with 'Hanger', so what is the difference between that and a Cutlass - is it that one is curved and the other straight?
OpanaPointer
Senior Member
Posts: 600
Joined: Wed Jul 06, 2011 1:00 pm

Re: Cutlass or Hanger?

Post by OpanaPointer »

Byron Angel
Senior Member
Posts: 1698
Joined: Sun Mar 06, 2011 1:06 am

Re: Cutlass or Hanger?

Post by Byron Angel »

Cannot confirm with absolutely full satisfaction, but the term "hanger" I believe probably refers to the means of securing the cutlass to the person when not actually in use. Contrary to Hollywood historiography, sailors did not generally carry their cutlasses between their teeth ..... :angel:

B
Post Reply