Here is a pre-Civil War Ames saber specimen and forerunner of the type issued to Federal horsemen during the War. Produced by the Chicopee, Massachusetts firm of Ames Sword Company, this weapon is the Model 1860 Light Cavalry saber that was initially called the ‘new pattern’ 1860 saber. This edged weapon is dated “1859” on the ricasso and was one of five thousand such ‘new pattern’ Model 1860 sabers that Ames delivered under its 1859 contract to the Ordnance Dept from 1859 through early 1861.

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 the saber measures 34½”, width is 1 3/32” with a wide fuller 27½” long and the narrow fuller 18¾ ” long. Blade is very clean and bright overall with just the slightest scattered mottling. There is no pitting on the blade but there are several edge nicks visible. Marked on the obverse riccasso is “US / JH / 1859.” Reverse ricasso bears the horizontal, three-line pattern maker’s mark “AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE / MASS.” that is clear and visible.

Brass hilt retains its original leather washer and a domed pommel cap that bears some rubbed and difficult to read inspectors stamps on the rim. Brass two-branch guard and knucklebow are strong, tight and wear a pleasing light patina overall. Never cleaned. Knucklebow has lightly scratched inscription that reads “1861  W. H. WHITLEY  USA.” The quillon has been bent forward toward the blade back. The shallow grooved, center-swell wood handle grips feature dark brown leather wrap in scuffed but good condition. Brass wire wrap is tight.

The original steel scabbard has acquired a dark plum patina along with minor scattered pitting and oxidation. Two ring mounts are tight and secure two 1 1/8” diameter sword rings. There is one small push in the metal just below the second ring mount. Scabbard retains its throat collar.

This is a quality example of an early Model 1860 Light Cavalry saber.  [ad]

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