Dating to the Western Expansion after the Civil War, 1970’s-80’s. 7 ¾” overall with heavy elk antler grip and Sheffield England made blade. The forte bearing the IXL (I excel) mark of George Wostenholm who used that mark after 1826. Wostenholm is considered by far the greatest of Sheffield knife makers. This knife undoubtedly went west as a fine bowie and eventually rehilted, likely by a Mountain Man trapper. Worn and well used throughout with great age character.
