The US Model 1841 Navy Cutlass was adopted by the United States Navy in the early 1840s as a dedicated close-combat weapon for sailors. With its distinctive straight, double-edged blade and heavy brass hilt, it stood apart from the curved sabres more commonly associated with 19th-century naval warfare.
Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall length | Approx. 26½ to 26¾ inches (672–680 mm) |
| Blade length | Approx. 21 inches (533 mm), straight and double-edged |
| Blade width | Around 1⅝ inches (42 mm) at the ricasso |
| Hilt | One-piece brass, fish-scale or feather grip, D-guard and cup, eagle pommel |
| Weight | Approx. 2.5 lb (1.1 kg) |
| Markings | Typically stamped “N.P. Ames” with arsenal/date/inspector initials |
| Scabbard | Leather, sometimes fitted with brass throat and tip |
History and Evolution
The cutlass was designed in 1841 and produced by Ames Manufacturing Company between 1842 and 1847. Fewer than 7,000 were made, making it relatively scarce. It was issued during a period when the US Navy was formalising its edged weaponry for boarding actions and landing parties.
The weapon saw service during the Mexican-American War and early years leading to the Civil War. By the 1860s, it was phased out in favour of the lighter, curved Model 1860 cutlass, which better suited the dynamic environment of naval combat.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Strong brass guard offered robust hand protection
- Straight, double-edged blade effective for both cuts and thrusts
- Durable construction suited to harsh maritime conditions
Disadvantages:
- Weight made it cumbersome for prolonged use
- Poor balance compared to later models
- Awkward in confined or shifting environments like a deck during combat
Comparison with Similar Weapons
- British Pattern 1845 Cutlass: Curved blade, faster handling, better for slashing. The US M1841 was heavier and less manoeuvrable.
- French Naval Cutlasses: Often curved and lighter, better suited to shipboard agility.
- US Model 1860 Cutlass: Lighter, curved blade with a more ergonomic hilt; eventually replaced the M1841 for good reason.
The M1841 was more reminiscent of a Roman gladius than a true naval sabre.
Legacy
Despite its short service life, the Model 1841 represents a transition in naval weapon design. Its robust and aggressive look has made it a favourite among collectors. While not loved by sailors at the time, it’s now regarded as a striking and iconic piece of US naval history.
Where to See One
Examples are held in collections including the Smithsonian Institution and various naval and Civil War museums in the United States. Availability varies, and pieces are often kept in storage rather than on permanent display.
Collectors Guide
What to Look For:
- Markings: “N.P. Ames” and inspector initials
- Year of manufacture between 1842 and 1847
- Intact fish-scale grip and eagle pommel
- Original scabbard (leather with brass fittings)
Typical Auction Prices:
- Common range: £950 to £1,400
- With original scabbard in good condition: £1,800 to £2,300
- Rare early examples or pieces with exceptional provenance: Up to £2,500+
Condition, authenticity of markings, and completeness of fittings all play a major role in determining value.
