Used as the primary U.S. fighting knife of World War II, the M3 knife was introduced to service with the right flat of the blade used as a location for the maker's marks. While a nice, concerns were raised that the blade stamps could have a negative effect on the strength of the knife, so only the earliest M3s are so marked. 11 5/8 inches overall, with a blued 6 3/4 inch blade with a spear point, sharpened false edge, and "U.S. M3 KINFOLKS 1943" on the right flat. The guard and pommel are blued, with the guard unmarked and a "flaming bomb" stamp on the pommel next to the tang, and a ribbed leather washer grip. With a brown leather M6 sheath, marked "U.S.M6/BARWOOD/1943." with steel reinforcement plates and integral hanger. Provenance: The Putnam Green/Sycamore Collection

Excellent, with the blade, guard, and pommel retaining 95% plus of the original blue finish with light edge and handling marks. The grip is also excellent with light handling evidence. A standout example of an early M3 combat knife from one of the more rare manufacturers.