Original Item: Only One Available. The Italian Modello 1860 Heavy Cavalry Saber was introduced by decree on July 1, 1860 as a replacement to the previous M1834 series of sabers. The M1860 had only one regulation blade length of 35 inches though some examples exceeded this length by just a hair. These were the swords in use during the Mahdist wars of the North Africa Colonial holdings at the end of the 19th Century, which also involved the United Kingdom, Ethiopia, and the Congo Free State.

The saber is marked HARTKOPF on the blade ricasso, which be believe refers to Friedrich Hartkopf of Solingen, the legendary "City of Blades" in Western Germany. The Friedrich Hartkopf company has a long knife tradition. Founded in 1890 by Friedrich Wilhelm Hartkopf in the city of Solingen (Germany). Hartkopf specialized in the production of high quality pocket folding knives, daggers, swords and other edged weapons. Due to its good reputation, Hartkopf knives are known all over the world.

However, as with many Famous Solingen families, there have been many different firms using the Hartkopf name, and 17 that we can find records of. Four of these were active in the late 19th century, so it is possible that it was another Hartkopf firm, or one that was unlisted. For more information, please see J. Anthony Carter's fine work GERMAN KNIFE AND SWORD MAKERS.

This example is in very good condition and shows little sign of having been used. The blade still has the factory blunt edge, and is in excellent condition, with just a few small dents on the unsharpened edge. The original factory final grind marks are fully visible, and there is just a bit of light staining keeping this blade from being mint.

The hilt and scabbard, exposed to the air and elements, have fared a bit worse, with the scabbard showing an overall gray patina, with some pit rusting on the bottom of the drag, most likely from contact with a damp floor. The hilt has a similar gray patina, with some light rust on the pommel cap. The wire wrapped leather grip is in very good condition, showing only light wear, though it was damaged a bit on the back.

A very nice example of an Italian M1860 Heavy Cavalry Saber, contract made in Germany during the late 19th century. Ready to display!

Specifications:
Blade Length: 35 3/4" with 35" edge
Blade Style: Curved Single Edge with Wide Fuller
Overall length: 36 1/2“
Guard: 5"W x 4"L
Scabbard: 42"