MORTONS OF SHEFFIELD KENTUCKY ANTIQUE BOWIE:187Os–1880s- RARE VINTAGE VICTORIA ERA BOWIE: Listed for your consideration is a dramatic large Victorian Era “Kentucky” fighting bowie knife handmade by Morton& Sons of Sheffield - also known as “Mortons of Sheffield Knifemakers”). It was handmade sometime in the 1870s-1880s Victorian period. The knife had been owned by generations of one family in England.  Only a few knives like this were ever made by Mortons of Sheffield.  Priced well below Sheffield bowie knives made during the same period. This fine fighting bowie has a blade length of 10-inches and an overall length of 15-inches. The blade width is 2-inches. The full tang carbon blade is forged from thick .31-inches (7.87mm) steel stock.  The blade has a deep square choil. The blade is stamped on one side, near the handle, with the name “Mortons of Sheffield Knifemakers” - a trade name used by Morton & Sons. The handle scales are buffalo horn set with 8 nickel silver pins (4 on each side). There is a blank brass monogram plate on the handle. The guard is brass. The knife weighs 21.7 oz. (615 grams)  Handle has a small repairable chip near back. Condition is used but NKCA Excellent. Note: This item includes new leather sheath, a wooden display stand, and a nylon zipper case for long term storage. 

HISTORY:  The “Country of Origin” stamp was required of every knife exported to the U.S. starting in 1890.  Prior to 1890, Imported British knives made in Sheffield-England that were not stamped England. Senator William McKinley sponsored an act (the McKinley Tariff) to increase the tariff on imported goods.  This act, which became law on October 1st, 1890, to protect US industry from its foreign export competitors. Although this import tax was short-lived, an enduring element was that knives, made in Sheffield England, had to be stamped with their country of origin prior to exporting to the the United States.  Thus, this listed bowie was made before 1890 and is listed as an antique. 

TERMS: SHIPPING: The Seller uses U.S.P.S. Ground Advantage Shipping. No International shipping. Shipping to all U.S. States except where noted. Buyer pays for insured return shipping. If a minor, please do not purchase this item. Always comply with local and or state laws. LIABILITY WAIVER: The buyer assumes full responsibility for compliance with local laws regarding the purchase, possession, and use of this product. The seller is in no way responsible for any damage or injury that might result from the use or misuse of this product. All knives should be handled with extreme care and cleaned after each use to keep them in good condition.