This J. E. Bleckmann M1860 cavalry saber is the type imported from Solingen, Prussia (Germany) by the Ames Sword Company of Chicopee, Massachusetts.  These sabers are seldom seen in the collecting market today. The firm of J. E. Bleckmann was founded in Solingen in 1808 and continued in business until 1880.  Their products were produced in small numbers but all were quality-made pieces.  

This slightly curved saber blade follows the characteristics of the Ames blade and measures 34½ long with a width of 1 1/16”, and features a 27” long, wide fuller and a narrow fuller 18½” long. Blade exhibits a mottled dark gray coloring with overall oxidation that has been cleaned. The blade back has a slight rounding to it and the obverse ricasso exhibits the Bleckmann blade strike of a ‘bow and arrow’ with B and M inside of the bow. Another early war Ames-like feature on this saber is the grip style where the grooves encircle the grip from the guard to the pommel cap and stop.  The robust brass hilt is loose and retains its original buff leather washer and a domed pommel cap. Hilt has been untouched and exhibits a dark mellow patina and no visible inspector marks.  Sword grips exhibit the typical shallow groove, dark brown leather covered handle with two-strand, twisted brass wire wrapped around the handle. Twisted brass wire around the grip is strong and tight.  

The blade’s steel scabbard has acquired a smooth gray patina with light fine pinprick pitting overall.  No dents or dings visible.  Two ring mounts are tight and hold two sword rings.  A brazed seam is exhibited along the entire bottom length of the scabbard where the metal was folded and joined.  No inspector marks at the drag. A handsome specimen, this J. E. Bleckmann imported light cavalry saber is reasonably priced.