A cutlass is a short, broad sabre or slashing sword with a straight or slighly curved blade sharpened on the cutting edge, and a hilt often featuring a solid cupped or basket-shaped guard, totaling about 70 to 82 cm (28-32 inches) . It was used for close-quarters fighting during the 17th, 18th, 19th and early 20th century. Known as the sailor's weapon of choice, it was robust enough to hack through heavy rope, canvas ,wood and other things even in close quarters.
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