IV. HORSE GEAR

The following is the only acceptable saddle and tack used by the enlisted man.

1. SADDLE

The M1859 issue is standard. This saddle had a rawhide seat with iron fittings and brass pommel and cantle shields. Skirts, sweat fenders, and stirrups (covered) should be proper period girth.

2. SADDLE BAGS

The M1859 McClellan style required. It has two pouches, laced compartments, single straps, and is black leather.

3. HALTER

The M1859 style is needed. It is of black leather with a six foot leather lead strap.

4. HEADSTALL/BRIDLE

It is to be M1859 bit. It is to be black leather, single cheek buckles, period curb chain. It can be 1863 U.S. bit and period.

5. WATERING BIT (optional)

The M1859 style is needed. It is to be black reins attached.

6. CRUPPER

Black federal crupper.

7. BREAST STRAP (optional)

Federal Breast strap (heart shape )

8. LINK STRAP

The M1859 style or 1863 style is acceptable. It is attached to the halter and allows you to hook the horses together for dismounted action.

9. SURCINGLE (required you will not mount up without it.)

A must item to have with a McClellan saddle.

10. COAT STRAPS

Six straps are needed to tie your gear to the saddle.

11. CARBINE SOCKET

The M1859 style is to be used to keep your carbine from swinging while riding. This is not optional and will be used to secure your carbine.

This is used to carry feed for your mount. (required)

13. FOLDING CANVAS WATER BUCKET (optional)

14. SADDLE BLANKET

A good quality dark blue wool blanket is required for use as a saddle blanket. A good back-up blanket is recommended to have. The back-up blanket is to be used as a dry pad going on the horse or used as a double pad. The 1851 federal issue blue wool with orange strip is the correct issue for the period. It has difficult to obtain. Use solid blue wool blanket in lieu of 1851 pattern until available.

15. BRUSH, CURRY COMB AND HOOF PICK

These are common sense items that are required for the care of your horse. It must be period style if shown in camp.

16. BED ROLL

At least one wool blanket of period style quilt is required. It needs to be attached to the cantle. The saddle blanket will be carried by coat straps or leather strings.

17. PONCHO

It is good to have one at a rainy event.

18. HAVERSACK

The Federal black issue painted cloth.

19. CANTEEN

U.S. 1858 smooth side or bulls eye dark blue wool. You can have mounted black leather strap in lieu of white canvas issue.

20. TIN CUP/ FLATWARE and DISH

The tin cup and implements for food substance are a necessity as food is cooked over an open fire are carried in a haversack.

21. DOG TENT

Each trooper in Federal service was accustomed to a shelter half. It is most practical to acquire both halves as this will eliminate the necessity to sleep two to a tent.

22. WEDGE TENT

The wedge tent was most common during camp life for the Federal Cavalry. They were carried on wagons and set up on company streets during fix positions when not on extended raids.

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