Civil War Union Cavalry

Union cavalry developed from uneven early-war performance into a more effective mounted arm during the American Civil War. It performed reconnaissance, screening, raids, and dismounted fighting, with carbines and repeaters influencing some formations. Its mobility depended on horses, forage, and replacement animals, while organization and equipment varied between armies and theaters.

Early difficulties in organization, training, and horse management gradually gave way to more coordinated operations. Cavalry Corps formations could concentrate mounted strength while using dismounted firepower when circumstances demanded. Union industry and resources increasingly supported remount supply and weapons such as Spencer repeaters in selected units. Leaders including Philip Sheridan became associated with large mounted operations late in the war. Gettysburg, the Shenandoah Valley, and the final pursuit toward Appomattox illustrate different functions, from screening and battlefield action to disrupting an opponent’s ability to retreat.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in the Global War series of games by Historical Board Gaming and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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