British 43rd Regiment of Foot Company Officer, Standing, 1780 Figurine- W. Britain Miniatures

The sword had always been a symbol of status on and off the battlefield, but with the introduction of firearms, its importance as a primary weapon rapidly diminished. The sword was now largely relegated to the officer class and cavalry. However, some armies, like the French, still issued them to the rank and file through the Napoleonic Wars, and no self-respecting Scotsman would be caught without his claymore and dirk. It is important to note that officers had to purchase their own swords, thus many, if not all, were of better quality and construction than those issued in general service. Many were artfully embellished with intricately carved handles, guards, and pommels, and decorative bluing on the blade.

Since 1893, W. Britain has produced toy soldiers and military miniatures with attention to detail, quality, and authenticity. Each model figure is cast out of metal and hand-painted to the highest possible standards.