1. Home
  2. Swords
  3. European Swords
  4. 1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber
1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber

1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber

By: Windlass Steelcrafts
1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber
Price (CAD): $326.99
or 4 payments of
$81.75 with

Ready to Order?

Product Code: 6387
Price (CAD): $326.99
or 4 payments of $81.75 with
Out of Stock
Receive 2300 Reliks Reward Points!

Toll Free Order Line

1-888-473-5457

The Old Wristbreaker, An American Cavalry Legend

They called it the "Old Wristbreaker," and not without reason. The Model 1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber was a substantial sword with a long, deeply curved blade that demanded strength and proper handling. Its formidable reputation would follow it through two major American conflicts, earning it one of the most memorable nicknames in military sword history.

Born from French Cavalry Tradition

The story begins with the unpopular American Model 1833 Dragoon Saber, a sword criticized for its handling and questionable effectiveness. Seeking a replacement, the U.S. Ordnance Department evaluated European cavalry designs and ultimately adopted a pattern inspired by the French Model 1822 saber. The result was the Model 1840, a heavier and more substantial sword intended for mounted service.

American dragoons carried the Model 1840 during the Mexican-American War, and the saber remained in service throughout the American Civil War. Its weight and demanding handling eventually encouraged the adoption of the lighter Model 1860 Cavalry Saber, although the older pattern continued to see service on both sides of the conflict.

A Heavy Cavalry Saber Recreated

This faithful reproduction captures the distinctive character of the original Model 1840. The broad, curved blade is forged from 1080 high carbon steel, reflecting the substantial construction associated with the historic design. Its traditional three-branch brass guard provides the recognizable profile of a 19th century American cavalry saber, complemented by a black leather grip wrapped with brass wire.

A steel scabbard completes the presentation, making this an impressive addition to a military sword collection, historical display or period reenactment equipment.

The Model 1840 remains a fascinating reminder of an era when cavalry swords were expected to balance reach, strength and control from horseback. Its distinctive form, French ancestry and unforgettable nickname have secured the Old Wristbreaker's place in American military history.

Canada Canadian Customers: All stocked items ship from our Ontario store. Duties, tariffs, and brokerage are already paid, so the checkout price is the final price you pay. Learn more.

Specifications

Reliks Product ID 6387
Manufacturer SKU 501150
Manufacturing Origin India
Blade Length 35 3/4"
Blade Material 1080 High Carbon Steel
Blade Thickness 9/32"
Blade Width 1 1/4"
Edge Type Factory Sharpened
Full Length 41 1/4"
Scabbard Steel
Weight 2 lb 5 oz

Product Overview

Reliks Customer's Rating

All ratings & reviews are from verified customers (read more)

5/5 average from 5 reviews

S MATT S. - Verified Buyer


"The grind lines are a little shaky, but overall the product is good. I have used it for light cutting and it has held up well, though the HT appears to have been a little careless, some spots on the blade are much harder than others. "

H Thomas H. - Verified Buyer


"It was exactly what I ordered and even got a dab of cup grease to go with it Which prevented rust"


1840 Heavy Cavalry Saber FAQ's

The nickname originated from the saber's weight and demanding handling characteristics. Its substantial blade could place considerable strain on the wrist and forearm, particularly when handled incorrectly. The name became closely associated with the Model 1840 and remains familiar to military sword collectors today.

Yes. Although the lighter Model 1860 was introduced before the Civil War, Model 1840 sabers continued in service throughout the conflict. They were carried by Union cavalrymen and were also used by Confederate forces, including captured examples and locally manufactured versions.

The Model 1840 was generally heavier, with a broad, curved blade and a substantial hilt. The Model 1860 was developed as a lighter alternative intended to improve handling and reduce the physical demands placed on mounted soldiers. Both designs saw service during the Civil War.

Yes. The Model 1840 was heavily influenced by the French Model 1822 cavalry saber. American military authorities evaluated several European designs while searching for a replacement for the unpopular Model 1833 Dragoon Saber.

This reproduction features a forged 1080 high carbon steel blade. It includes a traditional three-branch brass guard, black leather grip with brass wire wrapping, and a steel scabbard.

The design is historically appropriate for impressions depicting American mounted troops during the Mexican-American War and Civil War. Suitability for any particular reenactment activity depends on the blade's configuration and the safety requirements of the event organizers.