1864 CIVIL WAR Era U.S. Model 1840 “OLD WRISTBREAKER” Heavy Cavalry SABER American HEAVY CAVALRY Sword Based on FRENCH Sabre

Product Description

1864 CIVIL WAR Era U.S. Model 1840 “OLD WRISTBREAKER” Heavy Cavalry SABER 

American HEAVY CAVALRY Sword Based on FRENCH Sabre

Here we present an antique Civil War Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry or Dragoon Saber, nicknamed “Old Wristbreaker”, made circa the 1840s-50s. The Model 1840 was the second cavalry saber adopted by the U.S. after the Model 1833. The M1840 actually reached back further to the French Model 1822 for its inspiration. It was heavy and made for slashing during the cavalry charge with its swept back blade shape. Its moniker, “Old Wristbreaker”, was quite fitting. It served through the Mexican American War, and even though a new blade was adopted in the Model 1860 Light Cavalry Saber, the M1840 saw fighting from both the Union and Confederate points of view during the American Civil War.

The 1840 saber was used during the Mexican–American War by U.S. Cavalry. The main contractors were Ames of Cabotville, Horstmann, and Tiffany but due to the large number of swords required at least 1,000 were made in Germany by S&K and imported. Some troopers used Prussian sabers as an alternative, which in contrast to the Model 1840 had straight blades. During the American Civil War, it continued to be issued to Union Cavalry as in the early years it was more readily available than the Model 1860. Many were also used by the Confederacy including General Nathan Bedford Forrest who had both edges of his sword sharpened to increase combat effectiveness.

This example is marked “U.S./C.E.W./1864” on the ricasso. The initials stand for sub-ordnance inspector Charles E. Wilson.

The overall condition is good. Some blue finish remains along the blade. The twisted brass wire is wrapped tightly around the grip and the hilt overall remains solid through and through. Legible markings.

Own the original! This is a legitimate antique and not a reproduction.

Overall Length is 38 inches.

Blade Length is 32-1/4 inches.

Overall condition as seen in photos.

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$950
#227878