The Model 1840 Cavalry Saber was based on the 1822 French hussar's sabre. Unlike its replacement, the Model 1860 Light Cavalry Saber the M1840 has a ridge around its quillon, a leather grip wrapped in wire (rather than grooves cut into the wooden handle) and a flat, slotted throat. It is 44in long with a 35in blade and weighs roughly 2.5 lbs. * Old Wristbreaker * In the cavalry charges of the Mexican War US Dragoons used their sabers to slash their way through enemy lines * Union Cavalry Sergeant with 1840 saber