This Federal edged weapon is an Ames Model 1832 U.S. Foot Artilleryman’s short sword in good original condition.  Handsome and ruggedly made, this blade specimen is a product of the Ames Manufacturing Company of Massachusetts.  The artilleryman’s sword features a hefty, double-edged, steel blade that measures 19” long x 1¾” wide at the hilt.  This hefty short sword is rather unwieldy and its use as a weapon is debatable with some contemporary accounts indicating that this type weapon was used to clear brush and other obstacles from around gun positions.

The blade has a bright finish overall with scattered blemishes.   One minor edge nick.  Produced by N.P. Ames of Springfield, Massachusetts, the sword is marked on the obverse ricasso with a well-worn eagle motif and remnants of the Ames, Springfield stamp.  The reverse ricasso exhibits “US / 1843 / JCB”.  The solid brass hilt has the typical ‘fish-scale’ handle and strong eagle marks embossed on both sides of the pommel. One side of the cross guard has inspector’s initials stamped.

Matching leather scabbard is in good condition, complete with its brass throat and brass drag. Brass tacks that attached these parts to the scabbard are missing from the drag but present on the throat.   Brass buttonhook on throat is also present.  The brass pieces on the scabbard have dark patina.  Leather body remains strong and exhibits no scuffs and few surface cracks in the black finish. Stitching has separated some in the center.

These short swords are difficult to locate in the collecting field today and this specimen with its original scabbard would make a wonderful addition to any early US military edged weapon display or collection.  [jet]

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