Original Item. Only One Available. This is a very good original U.S. Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber manufactured by Ames Manufacturing Company and dated 1848. Commonly known among collectors as the “Wrist Breaker” because of its substantial weight and powerful blade, the saber retains its leather covered grip, complete twisted brass wire wrap, three branch brass guard, original leather blade buffer, and heavy steel scabbard with both suspension rings.

The Model 1840 was the principal U.S. heavy cavalry saber before the adoption of the lighter Model 1860 pattern. Examples remained in military inventories and saw extensive use during the American Civil War, particularly during the conflict’s earlier years. Sabers of this pattern were also used during the Mexican-American War and continued in service after newer models became available.

This example was produced under an 1848 Ames contract covering approximately 3,800 Model 1840 cavalry sabers. The date places its manufacture during the final year of the Mexican-American War and more than a decade before the beginning of the Civil War.

The hilt is fitted with a three branch brass guard and brass pommel. The brass has developed an attractive, naturally oxidized surface from age. The guard remains tight against the blade without noticeable wobble. The grip consists of a shaped wooden core covered in black leather. Nearly all of the leather remains present, showing minor deterioration and several areas where the surface finish has been lost.

The wicked heavy 36 inch curved blade's ricasso is marked on one side with the makers name and date:

AMES MFG. CO.
CABOTVILLE
1848

And on the other side with:

U.S.
W.D.

The W.D. initials are identified with U.S. Ordnance Department inspector William Dickinson, who inspected Ames edged weapons during the late 1840s. 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 1848.

The 36” blade is in good shape, with areas of heavy oxidation spotting and past wear, mostly towards the ricasso. This blade was heavily sharpened post-war with the sharpening marks looking quite modern. 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 heavy peppering, without any serious denting. Both suspension rings are in good shape.

Ames Manufacturing Company was one of the principal American military edged weapon contractors of the 19th century. The company produced large quantities of swords, sabers, artillery equipment, and other military goods for the United States government. The CABOTVILLE marking reflects the location name used by the firm before the area became part of Chicopee, Massachusetts.

The clearly dated Ames ricasso, William Dickinson inspection initials, intact grip wire, surviving leather blade buffer, tight brass guard, and complete steel scabbard preserve the most significant features of this 1848 contract saber. The blade oxidation, worn grip covering, and modern sharpening are important condition considerations, but the saber remains a substantial example of the Model 1840 carried through the Mexican-American War and Civil War eras.

Dimensions:
Blade length: 36”
Blade style: Curved Saber with Double Fuller
Overall length: 41 1/2”
Handguard: 5”x 5”
Scabbard length: 37 5/8”