This 1851-dated cavalry saber is a great representative of the heavy combat saber issued to Federal dragoons during the Mexican War and later to Union horsesoldiers engaged in the War of Rebellion. Manufactured by the Ames Manufacturing Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts, this saber was one of over 3,800 such sabers delivered to the Ordnance Department under the Ames contract of 1851. Well-liked by both the cavalrymen and the dragoons, the men often referred to it the "Old Wrist Breaker”. The only complaint leveled against the M1840 was its excessive weight of 4 pounds, 8 oz when it rested in its scabbard.

The 35 7/8” long, curved, unsharpened blade bears almost all of its original, shiny bright finish. Weapon is 1 5/16” wide and has a back thickness of 7/16”. Among the features on these M1840 sabers are the squared back profile, grips that are narrow at the pommel and widen toward the hilt, and its hatchet point tip. As author and sword expert John Thillmann notes in his descriptive new book, "These sabers hold a great deal of collector appeal due to their fine lines and length of active service”. Specimen exhibits an appearance that is smooth and clean. Blade is crisp and shiny with just scattered pin prick pitting and some areas of deeper pitting overall. Marked on the obverse riccasso is "U.S. / ADK” (stamping deep and crisp). The reverse ricasso has " CABOTVILLE / 1851” (LIGHT REMAINING).

The tight, brass hilt retains the original buff leather washer and a domed pommel cap Grips are in excellent condition with the original black bridle leather strong with no cracks or breaks. Twisted brass wire wrap is strong and tight. Brass hilt, with its two-branch guard and knucklebow, is tightly secured to the tang. Brass not cleaned and exhibits a mellow patina.

The steel scabbard wears a medium gray patina overall and painted gold. It once was displayed after the war at a GAR Hall. Two sword ring bands are tight and secure two 1¼” diameter sword rings. Original scabbard retains its throat piece and exhibits a brazed seam along the entire bottom length of the scabbard where the metal was rolled and joined. Very reasonably priced, this fine, scarce early Ames cavalry saber and scabbard is a worthy specimen that would compliment any edged weapon display or collection.

Item # DROL3308

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All items are described to the best of our ability. Remember that the only true experts died 100 years ago. If we make a mistake we will make it right. It is always best to call and reserve an item as most of them are unique. We do out best to keep the web-site up-to-date but sometimes items sell out at a show and aren't removed immediately. After you place your order and receive confirmation from Dixie Relics. The item will be held for 7 days for the payment to arrive. If payment is not received within 7 days the item will be placed back for sale. Please call between 9:30 AM and 7:00 PM Eastern Time. A minimum charge of $8.00 will be added to cover shipping. Items can be shipped FedEx or USPS Priority Mail. Georgia residents must include 7% sales tax. All items are 100% GUARANTEED. If for any reason you are unhappy with the relic just return it UNALTERED within 5 days for a refund minus shipping charges and restocking fee of 6%. Layaways can be arranged on items over $100. Layaway terms are; 1/3 down and 1/3 in 30 days with balance due in full in 60 days. Due to time factors there are no refunds or price discounts on layaways. Only 1 item may be in lay-a-way at a time unless approved by Dixie Relics. We reserve the right to refuse service to rude people. We are always buying and trading so feel free to make an offer. Thanks for stopping by! Steve and Melody Strickland.

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