The main-line American Army 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, broad canvas, 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 11/16 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 Milsco M6 sheath, dated 1943 with steel reinforcement plates and integral hanger.

Excellent, the blade, guard, and pommel retaining 98% plus of the original blue finish with some very slight wear showing bright grey on edges and high spots. The grip is also excellent with minimal handling evidence. An outstanding early M3 combat knife from one of the more rare manufacturers!