Developed during the same period of American "multi-use" military experimentation that produced the Springfield Trapdoor ramrod and trowel bayonets, the Springfield Model 1880 "Hunting Knife" was quite similar in size and appearance to the entrenching tool developed in the same year. The handle and bolster design is very similar, though it is fitted with brass, and not steel.
The M-1880 Hunting Knife was designed for concurrent use with the M-1881 and the M-1888 Rod Bayonet Rifles also manufactured at the Springfield Armory. The first 1002 knives were made in 1881 and had iron guards. Subsequently another 9,000 or 10,000 were made with brass guards (records vary).
This example has a brass guard bearing the Springfield Armory mark and is numbered 3094. While the hunting knife is original; the sheath its in is a tasteful reproduction.
This knife has wear with age and use, as well as signs of sharpening. Pictures provided for overall condition.
