This is a Model 1885 Sabre attachment made by the Rock Island Arsenal. This sabre attachment came about as a replacement to the two strap sabre attachment used from 1874 until around 1885. It uses a single brass hook attachment with two captive slings, sometimes referred to as drops. This sabre attachment hooked into the bottom of the brass slide on the M1885 Sabre belt. It could also be hooked into the sabre attachment ring on the lower edge of the woven cartridge belt by a riveted leather chape. This sabre attachment was used at least through 1891, as evidenced by Ordnance Memorandum No. 29, Horse Equipments and Cavalry Accoutrements of 1891. The brass pieces on this attachment all have a deep, golden patina. The hook on this one is not stamped R.I.A. The shorter drop is stamped ROCK ISLAND ARSENAL. There is some light crazing with the leather, as well as some color loss. All in all this sabre attachment is in very good condition. If you have an Indian Wars cavalry collection this will really look good with it!

Item # AA2173

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