The British Pattern 1796 Heavy Dragoon Carbine The British Pattern 1796 Heavy Dragoon Carbine Though unquestionably formidable, the British Pattern 1796 Heavy Dragoon Carbine was one of the most subtly elegant and innovative cavalry arms of its day. (Photography by Jill Marlow) May 07, 2021 By Garry James At the time of the Napoleonic Wars, Britain, like most European countries, categorized its cavalry units as either light, medium or heavy. How they were employed, as well as the weaponry with which they were issued, could differ considerably. Light cavalry, which included such units as hussars, light dragoons and lancers ideally were employed for scouting, vedette duties and pursuing a fleeing enemy.