League of Augsburg/Nine Years War Question

[Bunny]

Hi All,

Does anyone know which nation/regiment still used armored and lobster-potted cuirassiers during this period

[Arthur]

Bavaria and Austria fielded such cuirassier units between 1689 and 1698. In the English army, the Earl of Oxford's regiment wore their back and breasts and lobster pots until they were ordered to discard them in 1688 during the Glorious Revolution. 

[NickNascati]

Remembering back to the old Tradition Magazine articles on the Bavarian Army of the period, I'd say into the early 18th century. More specificially, those countries involved in wars against the Ottoman Empire held onto breastplates and helmets longer than others.

[Bunny]

Thanks guys

[Arthur]

Remembering back to the old Tradition Magazine articles on the Bavarian Army of the period, I'd say into the early 18th century. More specificially, those countries involved in wars against the Ottoman Empire held onto breastplates and helmets longer than others.

The Bavarian cavalry slowly made the transition from the pot to the tricorn during the WSS. The Austrians were a bit slower to do so, especially in the East as you say. It's worth bearing in mind that troopers were always issued with a hat in addition to their helmet, which was only worn on campaign : the hat was standard everyday headwear while in garrison and for everyday duties. When they replaced the lobster pot in the field, felt hats were usually worn with an iron skull cap - known as a 'secrete' - inside.

But pre-1700, yes both the Austrian and the Bavarian cuirassiers would wear pots rather than hats on the battlefield.