M 1860 Light Cavalry Saber

The M1860 Light Cavalry Saber (also known as the M1862, because the first 800 were numbered) is a steel and brass long saber used by the United States Cavalry from the American Civil War until the end of the Indian Wars; Some of them were still in use during the Spanish-American War. It was 41 inches (104 cm) long, had a blade size of 88.9 x 2.5 cm and weighed 2 pounds. 4 oz (1.0 kg) alone or 3 lbs. 10 oz. (1.6 kg) of iron scabbard.

Before the Civil War, the US Army had no light or heavy cavalry. In its place were "Dragons" (formed in 1830) and "Mounted riflemen" (formed around 1840). In 1861 these cavalry regiments were renamed Cavalry and received yellow piping. 

The M1860 sword was named to distinguish it from the larger and heavier Model 1840 cavalry sword it replaced. Like its predecessor, it had a brass guard, leather-covered grip and steel hood, but unlike the M1840, it was smaller and easier to handle. 

By the end of the Civil War, more than 300,000 pieces of M1860 swords were produced. In addition to the cavalry, M1860s were carried by many infantry and staff officers, as the 1850 sword for military staff and field officers had to be purchased privately. The swords of high officers, like their European counterparts, were often decorated with gold and leaf. Notable users included George Armstrong Custer and J.E.B. Stuart. 

Later in the Civil War, large cavalry raids became less frequent and cavalry assumed the role of skirmishers. Many replaced their swords with spare revolvers or left them in the saddle, fighting on foot with their repeating Henry rifles and Spencer carbines. This is a sword used by cavalrymen in the West and many are original antiques purchased by the film industry in the 1920s when Civil War surplus equipment was cheap.

This design is currently used by some US Army cavalry units on color cards or period-style uniforms. Most of these are given to a departing mounted soldier as a PCS (Permanent Change of Station) or ETS (End of Service) gift. His name, rank and date of service are usually engraved on the scabbard. Some are also dressed in full Dress Blues (when serving on a "Spur Ride" or combat tour) with a Stetson and Spurs.