The Horse Grenadier Guards, usually referred to as Horse Grenadiers, were a series of cavalry troops in the British Household Cavalry between 1687 and 1788, who used grenades and other explosives in battle. Originally attached to the Horse Guards, they became independent for a century before being disbanded. However, the men of the troops formed the basis of the new troops of Life Guards.
Trooper of the 2nd Horse Grenadier Guards, c. 1750.
Broadsword of the 2nd Horse Grenadier Guard, circa 1750. On display at the Musée de l'Armée, Paris.
In the British Army, the Horse Guards comprised several independent troops raised initially on the three different establishments. In the late 1660s, there were thus three troops in England, one in Ireland, and two in Scotland of which one was ceremonial for attendance of Lord High Commissioner. In 1707, there were four troops of Horse Guards, and two troops of Horse Grenadiers.
1st Troop of Horse Guards at the Battle of Dettingen.