Original U.S. Civil War Cavalry Carbine Sling Belt Swivel and Leather Socket “Thimble” by E. Metzger of Philadelphia

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a great example of a Civil War period Cavalry Carbine Belt Swivel with original Leather Socket, also known as a “Thimble”. Both items are in very good condition given the age. Carbine sling swivels attached to the swivel ring on the carbine and to the leather strap worn over the shoulder. This prevented the carbine from being dropped or lost.

The swivel itself is in wonderful condition with very minor rust present. Inside is marked with O.B.NORTH & CO / NEW HAVEN CT. This firm had contracts to supply 29,000 swivels between May of 1864 and June of 1865.

The leather band is a correct and genuine Civil War US issue cavalry carbine thimble. It is a socket of thick sewn leather with a leather strap and buckle stitched to the outside. Strap end stamped E. METZGER / PHILA. These were buckled to the D-ring on the lower right side of the saddle. When riding, the trooper carried his carbine suspended from the carbine sling over his shoulder with the barrel pointing down and thrust through the thimble to keep it from swinging wildly around while the horse was in motion. The leather is worn, dry and cracked but is in otherwise very good display condition.

A great pair of items ready for further research and display.