Here is a wonderful Ames Manufacturing Company saber of the type issued to Federal horsemen during the American Civil War. Produced at the firm’s factory in Chicopee, Massachusetts this weapon is the Model 1860 Light Cavalry saber and was one of over 37,000 edged weapons produced by the Ames for the U.S. Ordnance Department.

The blade length of this weapon measures 34.75 inches, width is 1 3/32” with a wide fuller 27.50 inches long and the narrow fuller 18.25 inches long. Blade is curved with just normal minor spots of discoloration and light pitting near the point. Edge has one small nick. Marked on the obverse riccasso is “U.S. / J.F. / 1865.” The reverse ricasso bears “AMES MFG CO / CHICOPEE / MASS.” in the three-line scroll pattern.

Tight, brass hilt retains its original buff leather washer and a domed pommel cap that bears the crisp inspector’s stamped of “J.C.W.” on the brim. Brass hilt with its unbent two-branch guard and knucklebow is strong and tight and wears a mellow bronze patina overall. Brass appears to have been lightly cleaned. The center-swell handle grips feature the leather wrap covering which is in good condition with areas of surface crazing, light scuffing and no rips or tears. Leather is wrapped with tight twisted gold wire in good condition.

The pleasing looking steel scabbard has acquired a light gray patina with one small dent on each side approx. half way down. The two ring bands are tight and secure two rings. Scabbard retains its throat collar and exhibits a brazed seam along the entire bottom length of the scabbard where the metal was folded and joined. Scabbard drag is stamped with a two digit number. One number is worn and could be a “3” or an “8” while the other digit is either a “6” or a “9.”

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