uniform and tack

The bummer was the issue throughout the union army, a black slouch hat became a common and versatile choice for the average trooper while on campaign. Especially in the west were uniform regulations were not strictly enforced.

Either headgear is acceptable. Only the Bummer is allowed to have the cross saber, unit letter, and unit number in Brass. The black slouch hat must be left blank (no yellow cords and no brass).

Jackets

The dark blue 4 button sack-coat was more common late in the war, 

The Cavalry shell jacket with yellow piping to denote the mounted service.

For the 7^th Ohio Cavalry, either the cavalry shell jacket or the basic sack coat will suffice.

Trousers

The standard issue for all branches of service in the union army consisted of the wool, sky blue trousers. To guard against saddle wear trousers were reinforced with wool on the seat and legs.  This way if we have to do the Confederate impression you don't need to buy another pair, for both the North and South wore these trousers.

Footgear

Though boots were considered a standard cavalry issue. It wasn't uncommon for troopers to improvise with a pair of brogans, especially if their boots wore out.

For 7^th Ohio Cavalry, both boots or brogans are acceptable.

Shirts and Underclothing

The basic white issue three-button pullover shirt or any period correct shirt is acceptable

**Need to buy a blue bib or firemans shirt which is used for training and trail rides.**

Other necessary items of any soldier's uniform were his socks and braces (suspenders.) Braces were usually made from cotton, linen, canvas or even leather. Socks were usually made of cotton or even wool and either issued or homespun.

Basic Leather and Additional Equipment

Saber belt

The saber belt with the rectangle eagle buckle is the main component of a trooper's leather issue. Common items worn on the saber belt include cap pouch, cartridge box, holster, and of course the saber.

Carbine sling

The carbine sling is worn "bandoleer" style, across the trooper's chest with snap hook on the right. It is then attached to one of various carbines by the snap link.

Other Equipment Items

A canteen with blue wool cover 

Tin cup

Black tar haversack

Tin plate with Knife, fork, spoon

Poncho or gum blanket

Wool blanket

Greatcoat, blue mounted pattern

Gloves or gauntlets

Shelter (dog) tent (you'll need two halfs to make a complete shelter) or wedge (A-frame) tent

Weapons

Carbines

From our research, there were over thirty different carbines issued to Federal Cavalry throughout the war. We have been able to document several types to the 7^th Ohio Cavalry. Some of the long arms include the Mississippi rifle, the Merrill, Sharps, Werner, Smith and Spencer carbines.

For reenacting, any safe, serviceable and period correct carbine is acceptable and though the most commonly used carbine is the Sharps, Smith, and Spencer carbines.

Muzzle-loading carbines such as the Enfield musketoon is also acceptable.

Revolvers

At least one steel-framed Cap and Ball pistol was issued to every trooper.

No more than two revolvers are to be carried in open view. Revolvers are to be steel-framed, period correct and safe. Examples include the 1851 and 1860 Colt Navy, the 1860 Colt Army, and the 1858 Remington New Army.

Sabers

Sabers were the most exclusive and recognized cavalry weapon. Avoid the ones with the nut on the end of the handle for they don't last long and break.

Horse tack

 Curry comb, brush, hoof pick

Saddle blanket (Blue with orange strip)

Picket pin and 30 ft of hemp rope

Canvans feed bag with leather bottom