The Cold Steel U.S. 1860 Heavy Cavalry Saber, At the outbreak of the American Civil War, there were two types of sabers issued to the Federal Cavalry: “light” and “heavy”. The light version was popular, but the heavy model, dubbed the “Old Wrist Breaker” was the one worth owning, as it was a superior weapon. Its 36" blade offered big reach advantages over most sabers, and its substantial weight gave it the leverage to easily crush bones and sever limbs or even a head with a single blow. The brass guard had three bars to protect the hand and the grip was wire bound leather and capped with a sturdy pommel. In its double ringed, steel scabbard, it could be easily attached to a saddle or to a belt. After examining and handling a number of original 1860 Heavy Cavalry Sabers, we decided to make our own reproduction with a few improvements. Our blade is made from 1050 high carbon steel with a hard spring temper and will pass the British Proof Test.