Original Item: Only One Available. This grenade is offered in INERT, BATF compliant condition. One of the hardest WWI U.S. Grenades to find is an original WWI Mark I Grenade, the forerunner to the Mark II “Cutback” Grenades, and the well-known MKII Grenades as used during WWII. The MKI we are offering is only the fifth one we have ever had, and a COMPLETE example! It is in very good original condition, complete with the original fuze, safety cap, safety switch, and safety pin and ring.

Not Available For Export

The Mark 1 grenade (sometimes spelled Mk I) is a fragmentation hand grenade used by American forces during World War I. According to its designers, it was to be the "simplest", yet most "fool-proof", grenade ever made. However, some major problems appeared when the grenade was used in the field, and it was retired from service before the war ended.
The MK 1 is a time-fused fragmentation grenade and has 32 serrations on it. To start the fuse, the user has to pull the safety pin, then push off the cap on top of the grenade. Right before throwing, the user has to move the switch on the lever away from the grenade in order to start the fuse.

When American forces entered World War I, they lacked a fragmentation grenade of their own. American forces often received either the Mills bomb or the French F1 grenade. When it came time to make a grenade, American designers looked to the F1 grenade for inspiration. In 1917, the Mk 1 grenade was created.

However, it became apparent that the Mk 1 grenade was quite difficult to use in the field. The grenades were often not ignited properly before being thrown, and enemies would return the grenade, this time properly lit. The MK 1 was immediately recalled and production stopped.

Due to such a limited production time, and their status as a recalled item (of which many were subsequently destroyed), these are incredibly hard to find grenades today. Perfect for a WWI or grenade collection!