A direct descendant of the 18th century smallsword, the Model 1840 Non-Commissioned Officer's sword was based on a German version of the infantry sword used by British troops during the Napoleonic Wars, and had a cast brass hilt resembling the more expensive wire-wrapped grip on the swords used by cavalry troopers and officers. This sword was carried by sergeants through the Mexican-American War and the American Civil War, all the way up through the Spanish-American War. The M1840 NCO was usually worn suspended on a leather baldric or on the belt using an Enfield bayonet frog. It was the main weapon of standard bearers and hospital stewards as well as a secondary weapon for infantry NCOs. During the Civil War, this sword was also used by the Confederates who captured many after seizing state arsenals. The single edged blade has a broad fuller running from the ricasso to near the point, the hilt is cast brass with a ribbed grip. This reproduction comes with an all-steel scabbard, which was standard issue after the leather sheath was phased out starting in 1868. A modern version of this sword is currently permitted for wear by US Army platoon sergeants and first sergeants; in practice it is rarely seen outside the 3d Infantry Regiment and honor guards.

length: 37 1/2"
blade: 31 3/4"
blade width: 7/8" at base
blade width: 9/16" at 2" from tip
grip and pommel: 5 1/4"
shell guard: 3"
balance point: 4 1/2"
weight(sword): 1 lb 14.8 oz
weight(sword): 2 lb 14.5 oz

Price: $170