Here is an Ames Manufacturing Company saber specimen of the type issued to Federal horsemen during the American Civil War. Produced by the Chicopee, Massachusetts firm of Ames Sword Company, this weapon is the Model 1860 Light Cavalry saber and was one of over 23,500 edged weapons produced by the firm for the U.S. Ordnance Department contract in 1863. Considered a lighter, more maneuverable and finely made weapon than its predecessor the M1840 Wristbreaker, the light cavalry saber weighed 3lbs, 7 oz in the scabbard.

Blade length of this weapon measures 34½”, width is 1 3/32” with a wide fuller 27½” long and the narrow fuller 18¼” long. Blade is curved with just normal age discoloration and moderate pin prick rust pitting overall. Shows a medium gray color with wear and appears to have been cleaned. Marked clearly on the obverse riccasso is “U.S. / A.D.K. / 1864.” The reverse ricasso bears the clear maker address of “Made by / AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE / MASS.” in the scroll pattern.

The tight, brass hilt retains its original leather washer and a domed pommel cap. Brass hilt with its two-branch guard and knucklebow is strong and tight and wears a mellow bronze patina overall. Outer guard exhibits a slight bend but is not cracked or broken. The shallow grooved, center-swell handle grips feature the typical black leather wrap covering which is dried and lightly shrunken. Grips show an exposed portion of the wood handle at the bottom of pommel.

Imported steel scabbard wears an old coat of silver paint which has large areas that have flaked off. Exhibits flaking and old rust pitting spots. No inspector marks visible on the drag. An original Ames light cavalry saber with scabbard at a great price.

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