Indian Wars era rare Springfield M1880 Hunting Knife, original Watervliet Arsenal scabbard; excellent condition

Description Springfield M1880 Hunting Knife Indian Wars era brass guard type fighter, low serial number; original scabbard included. Springfield Arsenal manufactured only about 11,000 M1880s from 1881 to 1885, hard-to-find type nowadays. This somewhat awkward knife was designed as “all-in-one” tool for skinning game, digging shallow trenches, clearing brush and, when everything else failed, as the last-resort self-defense weapon. The knife had a large cumbersome blade but its sharp edge could be utilized as a traditional hunting companion – dressing big game, as well as cutting and slicing. The M1880 was issued with the M1881 and the M1888 Rod Bayonet Rifles which were also manufactured at the Springfield Armory. The first group of 1,002 serial-numbered M1880s knives was manufactured in 1881. This 1st-issue type had iron guards; brass was used in later issues which were serial-numbered as well. All-in-all just about 11,000 (records vary) were made from 1881 to 1885. The M1880 was used heavily during the Indian Wars and in the Western Frontier outposts. Most of M1880 blades are usually pitted, re-sharpened and corroded; original turned wood handles were prone to damage in the field and were frequently replaced. The survival rate of these cumbersome knives is not that great; only a fraction of the original-issue knives survived to the present day. This brass-guard model specimen is in used condition – original turned wood handle has a chipped pommel, a few light pitting spots on the blade are noted for accuracy. No heavy damage to the blade, the brass guard is intact as well; it is sharply stamped U.S. / SPRINGFIELD on one side, serial number 596 on the other. The knife is about s 13-3/8” / 34 cm overall; the blade is about 8-3/8” / 21.2 cm long and 2” / 5 cm wide. The edge has been gently re-sharpened, the tip is a bit rounded; no chop marks, edge nicks, or dings on the blade. Original “type 2” scabbard is in well-used condition;  original brass belt hook has been replaced with a leather belt loop – obviously an expedient field repair. Brass throat is intact;  some stitching loss and dry leather are reported for accuracy. Brass throat has not been cleaned; nice original golden-honey patina throughout. Overall, only about 11,000 M1880s of all types were made, making it a very scarce and though-after Americana collectible. This Springfield M1880 Hunting Knife and its original scabbard are in fare  overall condition, considering the age. Don’t miss your chance to add it to your collection! This original Springfield M1880 Hunting Knife has not been cleaned or tampered with in any way, it is in 100% original “as is” condition; these are the actual photos. I have several American Civil War era fighting knives and daggers, as well as some scarce WW1 and WW2 fighting daggers and trench knives available for sale – please take a look in our Militaria section. For edged weapons and knives Argocoins accepts all major credit cards and checks as forms of payment. Please email  me at [email protected] if you would like to make a credit card purchase over the phone. Old-fashioned checks and money orders will work as well; please take a look at the Payments section within our Terms and Conditions for additional details. Follow me on Facebook @argoman400BC to keep an eye on the latest additions and promotions. USPS PRIORITY MAIL SHIPPING WITHIN THE U.S. WITH SIGN-FOR DELIVERY CONFIRMATION WILL BE $18 FOR THIS ITEM International shipping for this item will be $73 and up to most countries on our “ship-to” list.