Cavalry Sword Qualification badge?

[max7474]

Can anyone ID this arm badge. 7cm by 4 cm. Cavalry badge or PTI? There are 2 flat lugs on the back.

[The Inspector]

Hi

Crossed swords with blades down, cavalry awarded to 1 in 20, other way up PTI.

Regards Barry

New Zealand???

[max7474]

Thanks. What is 1 in 20?

Alan

[Muerrisch]

This is a late pattern skill at arms badge for swordsmanship or gymnastics ...... the lowest grade. The earlier patterns were much more elegant in design and manufacture.

The badge had two primary purposes, neither officially reflected in wearing blades up or blades down. Most illustrations 'in wear' have blades up.

The first purpose was as a distinguishing badge for Warrant and NCOs of the Army School of Gymnastics, and Gymnastic Instructors, worn as an appointment badge with chevrons etc of rank.

The second purpose was as skill at arms for cavalry, including lancers. The official material for all s-at-a badges was worsted, not gilding metal. There was [in peace] an annual competition in each regiment, and the badges were awarded as follows:

crossed swords: best man in each 20 competing

with 5 point star above: best in each troop

with crown above: best in each squadron

and also in regiment

all worn lower left sleeve except the latter, lower right.

All this is 1914 period ..... there were many variations before and after.

[max7474]

many thanks for the superb info.