Designed by Admiral John Dahlgren as a replacement for the sword pattern bayonets then used on the 1861 Plymouth Rifle, the Dahlgren Bowie was made with an eye for the kind of brutal, up-close combat that unfolds during boarding actions, shore landings, and similar events. As such, Admiral Dahlgren's bowie was a combat knife first, and a bayonet second. 16 5/8 inches overall, with a 12 inch asymmetrical clip point blade, marked "1864" on the right ricasso and bearing the Ames address on the left. Brass hilt and guard, with a finger grooved wood grip and a "DR" cartouche on the butt. Leather scabbard, with a brass throat and tip.

Fine, with hints of gray and brown on the otherwise very fine bright blade, with a few light handling marks. The Navy marking appears double-struck. An aged patina is showing on the brass, with mild dents on the hilt and grip. Sheath is good. With cracking on the leather and some mixed color and verdigris on the brass.