*British, Very Large Clip Point Bowie Knife with Full Tang and Staghorn Grip, by John Nowill & Sons Ltd Sheffield, A Cutler’s Shop Window Advertising Piece*
Approximate Measurements: 45cm overall, 31.2cm blade, 29cm / 11.5″ cutting blade, 7.8cm crossguard width
Marked on the Blade: John Nowill & Sons Ltd. Sheffield England Cross Keys.
This impressive large Bowie knife was made in Sheffield by J. Nowill & Sons. It features an 11.5” deep-swept Bowie blade, stamped with the maker’s name, “J. Nowill & Sons, Sheffield.” The knife has a metal cross guard, full exposed tang and five brass rivets on a staghorn grip. This is a huge knife and may well have been made as an advertising piece. This size of Bowie were displayed by Cutler’s in their shop windows to draw attention to & advertise their wares. Although useable as a knife it seems likely that this Bowie was never made to be carried and is correctly without scabbard.
John Nowill & Sons Ltd is a historic Sheffield-based cutlery company with roots dating back to 1700. Originally founded by Thomas Nowill, the business has been passed down through several generations, producing high-quality knives, swords, and cutlery. The company became well-known for its craftsmanship and the distinctive five-pointed star and crosskeys logo, granted by the Cutlers’ Company of Hallamshire in 1842.
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, John Nowill & Sons Ltd supplied military knives, bayonets, and other blades to British and international armed forces. Their products, including hunting and pocket knives, gained a reputation for durability and quality. Today, the company continues to manufacture traditional and military-style knives, combining centuries of heritage with modern manufacturing techniques.
*Condition*
Very good used condition with minor signs of wear and tear. The ricasso and obverse are discoloured and there are minor marks on the blade. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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