Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice Model 1917 C.T. Bolo manufactured by Fayette R. Plumb Inc, whose factory was in the Bridesburg region of Philadelphia, PA. They had another factory, just constructed, in St. Louis as well, and 1917 bolos were produced in both.
This model was a moderate simplification of the earlier 1910 Bolo made by Springfield Armory. The main difference is the lack of the catch mechanism on the scabbard and grip. It was manufactured by contractors such as Plumb and A.C. Co. This example has been sharpened a lot, however the blade ricasso is still faintly marked:
PLUMB
PHILA.
1918
The reverse is marked:
U.S.
MOD. 19[17]
The blade and ricasso of this example show significant use and post manufacture sharpening, even on the false edge. It looks like someone may have decided to use this as more of a fighting knife than a brush clearing device. The main edge on the blade is usually single sided, but this example has been sharpened from the reverse as well. Almost all of the blade finish is worn, though the blade still does have most of the original shape. The cross guard has been bent, apparently so it would have a "thumb" rest like a fighting knife.
The grip is in very good condition, with almost all of the original "ribbed texture, and a nice color. There are no chips, cracks, or dents to speak of, however it has been personalized with what look to be the initials RTC or BTC. The screws are still holding both sides together tightly.
The leather tip of the canvas scabbard sleeve is marked:
BRAUER BROS.
1918
The scabbard is in very good condition, though it does show age, and the belt clip is missing. It also is named on the canvas with the initials J.C.C., which is repeated on the leather tip. There is however more written, which is hard to see without a magnifying glass: Joseph C. Clark, BOSTON MA, and other information we unfortunately cannot read. Definitely worthy of further research!
Overall a great example of a WWI Issue bolo knife, ready to add to any military knife collection. Ready to research & display!
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