You are bidding on a scarce American military knife in extremely fine condition that would be difficult to upgrade. 18″ overall with a massive 12″ blade retaining most of its orig luster with crisp markings. 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. The frog button has inspector letter "D" stamped on it. SIZE: PROVENANCE: The spectacular collections of Ray Bentley featuring the finest and rarest deluxe antique Winchesters in the world. CONDITION: Extremely fine overall. Blade is bright with light scratching overall. Orig protective washer is retained. Wood slab grips have small cosmetic blemishes unaffecting aesthetics. The scabbard is about as nice as you will ever see on this pattern, leather body retains 98% orig dyed surface with craquelure. Brass mounts and crossguard have light mustard patinas. 53091-134 JS (6,000-8,000)