Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. The U.S. Model 1918 Mark I Trench Knife was the second major "Knuckle Knife" to be officially adopted and issued to the US military. It was developed for use in the horrific trench warfare that typified the stalemate on the Western Front during the latter part of World War One and saw use not only there, but during World War Two as well. The knife was manufactured in the United States by Henry Disston & Sons (H.D. & S.) as well as Landers, Frary & Clark (L.F. & C.) and Oneida Community Ltd (O.C.L.). The U.S. M-1918 Mark I Trench Knife is easily identifiable due to its large "brass knuckle" style guard and grip. The knives were 11 ¾" in overall length, with a 6 ¾" dagger style blade. The brass grips were marked U.S. 1918 and with the makers name or initials. This example was featured on Page 170 of the book The Model 1918 Mark I Trench Knife and Variations by Greg Aloisio.
As originally issued, the knives were entirely blackened; both the blades and the brass knuckle hilts. These knives remained in use with the US military, classified as limited standard (secondary issue) through January of 1945, when the knives were officially classified as obsolete. Many of the knives issued during World War II ended up in substitute leather scabbards of various designs and styles, many of which were "theater made", however in this case its use was a bit different.
This example was modified for use during World War II, its scabbard being embedded within a larger leather sheath with an integral belt loop and leg tie down straps. The knife was originally produced by the Landers, Frary & Clark company of New Britain, CT. L.F. & C. was established in 1865 and produced a wide variety of housewares, cutlery and event appliances. Many of their products were marketed under the trade name "Universal". The products of L.F. & C. included everything from scales, mousetraps and ice skates to electric ranges and toasters. L.F. & C. also produced the triangular blade US M-1917 Trench Knife as well. The assets of the L.F. & C. company were purchased by General Electric in 1965. This Mark I Trench Knife is clearly marked in two lines in the brass grip:
U. S. 1918
L. F. & C - 1918
The brass grip and knuckle guard has much of the original finish, with scattered areas showing a nice brass patina. The blade of this example is a bit rough with some heavy pitting and oxidation on one side, as well as some evidence of sharpening over the years, but given this was a genuine WWII-used example, heavy wear is to be expected.
The heavy leather sheath has a laundry number written on the back, H6145. This makes for a great research project. This truly is a stunning example, the extremely scarce Mk. I Scabbard being embedded within this leather sheath instead of the scabbard being ditched entirely. It’s in great shape with the belt loop still well-intact.
Overall this is a great example of the very popular and collectible World War I era US trench knife, modified and re-issued in WWII. A wonderful collector's item, and sure to become a great part of a collection.
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