Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber

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The Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry Sabre was based on the 1822 French hussar's sabre. It was designed for slashing and because of its heavy blade was given the nickname "Old Wristbreaker." It was a significant improvement over its predecessor the model 1833 dragoon sabre which was reputed to wrap "rubber like around a man's head and was only good for cutting butter"^[1] The 1840 sabre was used during the U.S.-Mexican War by US Cavalry and by both sides during the Civil War, many made by Ames of Cabotville. Due to the large number of swords required many were made in Germany and imported. One officer who used it was Nathan Bedford Forrest who had both edges of his sword sharpened to increase combat effectiveness. It was replaced just before the Civil War with the Model 1860 Light Cavalry Sabre.