The M1860 US Cavalry Sword has a blade of 1055 high carbon steel; both sides of the blade are embossed with US military motifs. The hilt is crafted from brass and the grip is overlaid in black leather and wrapped with spiralled brass wire. The steel scabbard is finished with brass fittings and brass hanging rings. The US 1860 Cavalry sword was famously used by both the North and the South in the Civil War and was the alternative for the heavier, M1840 Old Wristbreaker sword. Heavily inspired by the French 1822 Cavalry sword, the M1860 was used after the Civil War in the later conflicts with the Indian nations; Some were even used in the Spanish-American War. An agile saber, the 1860 lends itself well to both cutting and thrusting on the charge.