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Scarce Early Production Springfield M1880 Hunting, FIGHTING, entrenchment Knife 

Presented is an early serial number and scarce example of the M1880 U.S. Army Hunting knife and scabbard, both in excellent condition. The scabbard is an original “WATERVLIET ARSENAL” long loop version that was upgraded by the Rock Island Arsenal with a brass hook. The first scabbards were issued with long leather loops which were cut down to the short leather loops almost immediately with that design adopted in 1883. However, they continued to fail and in 1888 the scabbard design was altered to use a "brass hook" in lieu of a leather loop. This adds a lot of historic interest and tracks the evolution of the design. The serial numbers of these knives were issued in chronological order, and this one carries 694 making it very early in production. In 1890, the model was reissued with only minor modifications and a change in nomenclature in order to emphasize that combat was the primary purpose of the knife, not hunting and skinning game. 

 

CONDITION: The knife has a varnished oak grip with turned rings that has a nice patina of age. It is in fine condition with four small hand carved notches on the pommel to record some series of events and one later chip opposite. The blade is in excellent condition with only a small amount of its original nickel plating remaining. It is free of rust and spotting. The cutting edge is sharp and only has two small dimples showing use. The scabbard is in remarkably good condition for its age with most of its original finish and no flaking. The only wear is flexing on the back at the point the hook is attached. Alls stitching is tight and all the rivets are original.

 

Back and front of scabbard has a Broad Arrow cartouche stamped at top

THIS KNIFE'S DIMENSIONS:
Length overall 13 1/2"       

Blade 8 1/2" long X 2" at widest  Thickness 1/8"

Hilt 4 1/2" long x 1 1/4" wide

Weight knife 10 oz                      Total weight 1 lb 2 oz

MARKINGS: The knife is stamped U.S. over Springfield on the obverse guard and on the reverse the serial number 654. The scabbard is stamped RIA on the brass hook. On the front of the scabbard just below the hooks right edge is "VLT". On the back is 233 over 44.

Imprint: U.S. over SPRINGFIELD

Stamp: Rock Island Arsenal

Imprints: Left: 233 over 44                                             Right: "VLT".

Excellent handle and near perfect blade

 

POMMEL:   Four hand carved notches - left, Chip on right                                                                 Housed in excellent historic scabbard FLAT RATE SHIPPING, PACKING and insurance to the 48 contiguous States, $15.00 OUR UNCONDITIONAL GUARANTEE: If not completely satisfied with your purchase it may be returned, if without damage, within five days of receipt in its original packaging. Return items must be insured for their full value. A prior email authorization by us for the return is required. Unfortunately, shipping charges are not included in this offer and are non-refundable unless due to our error. International buyers welcome, but must inquire first.  You are responsible for knowing the laws covering the import of edged weapons into your country. We have satisfied customers in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Estonia, England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Martinique, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, Nova Scotia, Panama, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, USVI and the Eastern Caribbean. Copyright 2009 by Land And Sea Collection™, All Rights Reserved