The Model 1840 Noncommissioned Officers' Sword was based on a German version of the infantry sword used by British troops during the Napoleonic Wars. In August of 1840, the United States Army Ordnance Department contracted with Schnitzler & Kirschbaum ( S&K )of Solingen, Prussia for 1000 swords of this pattern. Later, N.P. Ames Manufacturing Company of Cabotville received their first contract in 1844 to make this sword, followed by Ames Manufacturing Company of Cabotville (1847), then by Ames Manufacturing Company of Chicoppee , Mass in the 1850s.
The Model 1840 Army NCO sword was worn and saw frontline service by American sergeants during such great conflicts as the Mexican-American War (1846 - 1848), the Civil War (1861 - 1865), and the Spanish American War (1898). A shorter version with a 26 inch blade (the typical 1840 Army NCO sword sports a 31 inch blade) was carried by musicians, and thus was called the Model 1840 Musician's sword. NCO's of shorter stature and cadets also carried this variant. Other ranks allowed to carry it included Sergeant Major, Quartermaster, Ordnance Sergeant, Hospital Steward, Corporal and Pioneer (Combat Engineer).
Many of the Model 1840 Army NCO swords manufactured by the primary contractor, the Ames Manufacturing Company, were very badly manufactured with a blunt edge, but they still proved effective in combat, as the sword could be used like an iron club to break bones. The 1840 Army NCO sword was the main weapon of standard bearers and hospital stewards, as well as a secondary weapon for infantry NCO's. The sword was also used by the Confederates who captured many after seizing state arsenals.
The M1840 (1840 Army NCO sword) has had a long service life. In 1868 the United States Army ordnance board recommended that no more leather sword or bayonet scabbards be purchased. (the sword was originally was equipped with a leather scabbard), so after the leather ones were used up, a black Japanned steel scabbard was substituted along with a new pattern leather frog. The 1840 Army NCO sword remained in service as a ceremonial weapon until general orders No. 77 dated August 6, 1875 discontinued its use. A modern version of this sword with steel scabbard is currently permitted for wear by US Army platoon sergeants and first sergeants (Army Field Manual FM 3-21.5) and is mostly used during a regimental CSM (Sergeant Major or SGM) change of command as a symbolic transfer of authority between CSM's.
Some Army NCOs have this sword and wear it for social occasions, regardless of duty as a platoon sergeant or first sergeant. After all, the sword was originally designed for them. As the original 1840 Army NCO Sword could be carried - by regulation - by all Non-Commissioned Officers. This included the ranks of:
1840 United States Army Non Commissioned Officer Saber Sword
with scabbard
Item # RCSZ849019TS
The 1840 United States Army NCO Saber Sword with scabbard
The United States Army NCO saber sword was adopted by the War Department in 1840. The Army NCO Saber Sword has been worn by Army sergeants for over 100 years. It is primarily used today for honor guards and presentations.
Overall Length: 39"
Blade Length: 31 1/2"
Blade Material: Steel
Handle Material: Brass with Wire Twist
Scabbard: Metal
Replica of the Model 1840 United States Army NCO Sword
I've purchase the 1840's swords in the past and would like to purchase three more and receive the military discount if possible. I mount and present the NCO Swords to NCO's of my Unit 2/228th AV BN at Willow Grove, PA as retirement gift and to Senior Enlisted Soldiers who are transferring after superior service to the Unit. Your swords are always admired and greatly appericated by all of my Soldiers and the NCOs receiving them.
Thank you.
Command Sergeant Major
1840 United States Army Non Commissioned Officer Sword
by Windlass Steelcrafts
Item # 500350
The United States Army NCO sword was adopted by the War Department in 1840. The United States Army Non Commissioned Officer Sword was carried by American soldiers for over 70 years; a period which included the Mexican War, Civil War and Spanish American War.
The single edged blade has a single broad fuller running from the ricasso to near the point. The entire hilt is cast brass and the grip is ribbed. The pommel of the United States Army Non Commissioned Officer Sword is global with a capstan. The grip is flanked by kidney shaped hand guards. The United States Army Non Commissioned Officer Sword is made by Windlass Steelcrafts® and comes with a steel scabbard. The United States Army Non Commissioned Officer Sword is primarily used today for honor guards and presentations.
Overall Length: 39"
Blade Length: 31 3/4"
Blade Material: Steel
Handle Material: Brass with Wire Twist
Scabbard: Metal
Replica of the Model 1840 United States Army Non Commissioned Officer Sword
Windlass Steelcrafts logo on blade
Made in India
$89.95 each
In Stock
$62.97 each (with approved Military Discount)
(Contact us for Military Personnel Discount)
Item # RCCS88MNSTS
The Cold Steel USMC NCO Saber Sword by Cold Steel
The Cold Steel United States Marine Corps Non Commissioned Officer Saber Sword is a truly battle worthy reproduction. The Cold Steel USMC NCO Saber Sword by Cold Steel is faithful in every detail to government specifications offering a highly polished blade, appropriate etching and a quality hilt and scabbard.
The only real changes Cold Steel has made is to drastically improve the sword's performance as a weapon by forging the blade from 1050 Carbon Steel and properly heat treating the blade to a tough spring temper before sharpening.
Maxam® Reproduction U.S. Marine Non-Commissioned Officer’s Sabre. An excellent reproduction of the blade proudly worn by a man notorious for his bravery , combat readiness and fierce loyalty. The saber features 420 surgical stainless steel blade deeply etched with the wording "United States Marines", gold plated zinc alloy handle, metal scabbard covered with faux leather, and gold tassel.
Overall Length: 34-1/2" sword , with sheath is 38"
Item # RC2003MKTS
The United States Marine Corps Swordcane
The United States Marine Corps Sword Cane is a beautiful cane with a hidden sword inside that you simply unscrew to reveal. The pommel features a USMC insignia insert. Not for orthopedic use.
Overall Length: 36"
Blade Length: 20"
Blade Material: 440 Stainless Steel
Pommel: Beautifully Detailed metal with Full Color USMC Insignia insert
