You are bidding on a scarce American military knife in very fine condition that is 18″ overall with a massive 12″ blade. This is the second American contracted fighting knife and Ames made this a formidable weapon, longer and heavier than those by earlier contractor, A.G. Hicks of Cleveland, Ohio. The blade is stamped “Ames Mfg. Co. / Cabbotville / 1849″ on one ricasso. The opposite is stamped and inspected “US / WD”. The guard also has two sets of inspector’s initials, “WD” and “JWR”. The regiment of mounted riflemen for whom these knives were made were organized in 1846 at Ft. McHenry. They had the distinction of being the first regular Army unit to be equipped with Colt Revolvers. These were the famous Colt Walkers and Dragoons. This knife is accompanied by its correct brass mounted scabbard and frog. The frog button has inspector letter “D” stamped on it. SIZE: CONDITION: Blade is grey with pitting and staining. Maker marks and inspector marks are crisp, as are inspector marks in crossguard. Scabbard is sound and solid, several insignificant dents and scratches, overall an extremely fine piece of leather. Scabbard mounts have mustard and green patinas mixed with several dents, especially large one in drag about 1" from tip. Knife retains orig buff washer. Grip is sound and solid with several small dings & dents. 49622-8 JS (8,000-12,000)