Original U.S Civil War M-1840 "Wrist Breaker" Heavy Cavalry Saber by Ames with Scabbard Dated 1851 - One of 2,550

Original item: Only One Available. This heavy Cavalry Saber, known as "Old Wristbreaker" among troops, was designated the U.S. Model of 1840, and was the principal cavalry saber used until the Model of 1860 was introduced. As such it was widely used in the War between the States on both sides. This example is of a very desirable date, 1851, and is by one of the scarcest makers of these sabers, Ames Manufacturing Co. of Chicopee, Massachusetts. They only manufactured 2,550 of these, making this a very scarce offering.

The sword has all brass mounts, a wood with leather wrapped sword grip, and a nice steel scabbard. The leather of the grip is mostly intact, with some heavy deterioration, and a few areas missing the finish. The twisted brass wire wrapping is completely intact with wear. The leather blade buffer is intact and in great shape, and the guard is tight on the blade, with no wobble.

The wicked heavy 35 3/4 inch curved blade's ricasso is marked on one side with the makers name, which is slightly worn -

AMES MFG. CO.
CABOTVILLE
1851

And on the other side with:

U.S.
A.D.K.

Produced by the N.P. Ames Company of Cabotville, Massachusetts, this cavalry sabre is one of 2,550 delivered by contract to the U.S. Ordnance Department from a contract ordering 6,000 sabres in 1850.

The 35 3/4” blade is in good shape, with areas of heavy oxidation spotting and past wear, mostly towards the tip. This blade was sharpened, so it looks to have been issued for combat. The three branch brass hand guard is in good shape, and has a lovely oxidized patina. The leather blade buffer is still present, rare to see.

It comes complete with its heavy steel scabbard, which is in good condition. It has a nice oxidized patina with light peppering, but there is some heavy denting towards the center with some seam damage as well.

A great example of a Civil War Era M-1840 Wristbreaker Saber, from a seldom seen maker. Ready to display!

Dimensions:
Blade length: 35 3/4”
Blade style: Curved Saber with Double Fuller
Overall length: 41 1/2”
Handguard: 5”x 5”
Scabbard length: 37 3/4”