The US Model 1840 heavy cavalry sabre, often referred to as the “Old Wristbreaker,” is one of the most recognisable American military swords of the 19th century. Issued widely during the Mexican-American War and into the Civil War, its robust design reflected a period where battlefield cavalry charges were still considered a viable tactic. The sabre was both admired and criticised by those who wielded it, and today remains a key item in American military collections.
Adopted by the United States Army in 1840, the sabre was based closely on the French M1822 sabre de cavalerie. Designed for slashing attacks from horseback, it was a fearsome weapon in both size and weight. The “heavy” designation refers not just to its physical mass but also its intended role as a shock weapon in cavalry engagements.
Specifications
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Overall Length | Approx. 44 inches (112 cm) |
| Blade Length | Approx. 36 inches (91 cm) |
| Blade Type | Curved, single-edged, flat-backed |
| Blade Material | Polished steel |
| Grip Material | Wood with leather wrap and wire |
| Guard | Brass, three-branch knuckle bow |
| Scabbard | Steel with twin carrying rings |
| Weight | Approx. 2.5 to 3 pounds (1.1–1.4 kg) |
The sword was designed for durability, capable of delivering powerful cutting blows even against enemy cavalry or unarmoured infantry.
History and Evolution
- French Influence: Based on the French M1822 design, the US adopted the form with only slight modifications.
- Adoption and Use: Officially adopted in 1840 and saw widespread use in the Mexican-American War (1846–1848), then later during the American Civil War.
- Production: Initially manufactured by American firms such as Ames Manufacturing Company. Later imports from Solingen (Germany) supplemented domestic production.
- Later Models: Superseded by the Model 1860 sabre, which was lighter and more manageable, though many Model 1840s continued in service.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- Strong, durable build suited for heavy combat
- Excellent cutting power from horseback
- Impressive reach and intimidation factor
- Solid guard offering good hand protection
Disadvantages
- Excessive weight, difficult to wield effectively for extended periods
- Poor balance compared to later models
- Less suitable for thrusting
- Not ideal for dismounted combat or skirmishing
Many soldiers in the field cut down their sabres or replaced them altogether with privately purchased alternatives.
Comparison with Similar Weapons
| Weapon | Weight | Blade Length | Primary Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US Model 1840 Sabre | 2.5–3 lbs | 36 in | Cavalry slashing | Very heavy, robust |
| US Model 1860 Light Cavalry | 2.2 lbs | 34.25 in | Cavalry slashing | Lighter, more agile |
| British 1796 Heavy Cavalry | 2.7 lbs | 35 in | Powerful slashing | Less curved, blunt point |
| French M1822 Cavalry Sabre | ~2.5 lbs | 36 in | Model for the US 1840 | Similar in shape and function |
The Model 1840 shares more in common with the British 1796 and French M1822 than with later, lighter sabres, which reflected changing cavalry roles.
Legacy
The US Model 1840 sabre symbolises an era of traditional cavalry warfare in America. Though eventually overshadowed by firearms and lighter blades, it remains a staple in military history collections. Its appearance in Civil War memorabilia, literature, and reenactment has kept its legacy alive.
Veterans often regarded it with a mix of respect and frustration, with some officers referring to it as “more suitable for chopping wood than fighting.”
Where to See It
- Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.
- National Museum of American History
- Gettysburg Museum of History
- American Civil War Museum, Richmond, Virginia
- West Point Museum, New York
These institutions typically display the sabre alongside uniforms and period equipment, often contextualised within the broader story of mid-19th-century warfare.
Collector’s Guide
What to Look For
- Clear maker’s marks (e.g. Ames, Emerson & Silver, or Solingen imports)
- Original grip wrap and wire intact
- Matching serial numbers on blade and scabbard (if applicable)
- US or state acceptance stamps
- Original steel scabbard with patina
Common Issues
- Grip leather or wire missing
- Blade pitting or rust
- Scabbards often mismatched or replaced
Auction Price Range
| Condition | Estimated Value |
|---|---|
| Excellent (Museum-grade) | £1,500 to £3,000 |
| Good (Complete, minor wear) | £800 to £1,200 |
| Fair (Restored or incomplete) | £400 to £700 |
| Poor (Damaged, parts only) | £100 to £300 |
Civil War provenance or links to named soldiers can raise values significantly. Sabres attributed to cavalry units such as the 1st U.S. Dragoons or Confederate cavalry fetch higher prices at auction.
The US Model 1840 sabre endures as both a battlefield relic and a symbol of a transitional period in American military history, when cavalry still rode into battle steel in hand.
