Cavalry Equipment
Although sabers and other traditional cavalry weapons were still issued, the Civil War saw
mounted troops on both sides depend increasingly on firearms. The men often dismounted
to fight, but also used new multiple-shot breechloading carbines from the saddle.
CLASH OF ARMIES 1862■^ Morse carbine (Confederate) Around 1,000 were
produced by the State Military Works in Greenville, South
Carolina. ■ Henry rifle (Union) It could hold 15 .44-caliber
rimfire cartridges. Much prized for its rapid rate of fire, it was
purchased by Union military units. ■ Spencer carbine
(Union) First issued in the later part of 1863; the Federal
government purchased more than 95,000. ■ Tarpley
carbine (Confederate) A few hundred of these breechloading
.52-caliber guns were made in Greensboro, North Carolina,
in 1863–64. ■ Carbine strap A leather sling helped
cavalrymen transport their weapons. ■ Model 1840 saber
(Union and Confederate) Due to its heavy, flat-backed
blade, the saber was nicknamed “Old Wristbreaker.” Though
production ceased in 1858, it remained more readily
available than the later Model 1860. ■ Saber and scabbard
(Confederate) This “Old Wristbreaker” was carried by 2nd
Lieutenant P. P. Brewer. ■ Dragoon pistol The heavy
single-shot weapon was becoming obsolete by the start of
the war. ■ Lance (Union) The 6th Pennsylvania Cavalry
were known for their use of 15-ft (4.6-m) lances, though
these were replaced by carbines in 1863. ■(; Bridle made of
leather and brass. ■(2 McClellan saddle This saddle, used by
Confederate Captain E. M. Hudson, follows the prewar design
of future Union general George B. McClellan. ■(3 Saddlebag
The leather bag had a buckle to attach it behind the saddle.
■(4^ Western-style spur Bronze spurs with rowels (toothed
wheels) were worn by Confederate Captain E. M. Hudson.
■(5^ Swan-neck spur The neck of the spur rises at an angle,
giving this type its name. ■(6 Uniform gloves, 6th Virginia
Cavalry (Confederate) Cavalrymen wore
leather riding gloves.■ SABER AND SCABBARD
■^ “OLD WRISTBREAKER” SABER
■ CARBINE STRAP
■ MORSE CARBINE
■ HENRY RIFLE
■ SPENCER CARBINE
■ TARPLEY CARBINE