Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. These are most uncommon today but were essential equipment for the hardhat divers of the WWII era. This unique knife was designed to be an all-purpose tool for use by deep-sea divers who utilized the Mark V “dry suit” diving system. The Mark V system was adopted by the US Navy in 1916 and served until about 1979, when it was replaced by the Mark 12 system. The Mark V system is the classic “deep sea diver” dry suit with large brass & copper helmet, air lines, weighted boots and so on, much like the suit worn by Cuba Gooding Jr in “Men of Honor”. The Mark V knife was designed for use not only as a knife, but also as a prying tool, hammer, saw and general purpose implement to accomplish whatever tasks were at the diver’s hands.
Offered in excellent condition, this rare WWII example has the standard 6 1/2" blade with saw teeth on one edge. The grip is turned hardwood and the hilt has a brass pommel. The knife screws into a heavy brass cylindrical scabbard, which is not maker marked. This example is attributed to Morse, as it is identical to past examples we have had.
Morse Diving is the oldest manufacturer of diving equipment in the world and the 412th oldest officially recorded company ever, sharing its founding year (1837) with Tiffany and Co. Morse Diving Equipment Company was one of the primary manufacturers of the famous United States Navy Mark V diving helmet. They also manufactured the next generation Mark 12 free flow diving helmet which was used by the US Navy for almost 20 years.
Most companies who made the Diving Knife marked the scabbard, but some did not. There were five or so manufacturers of this type of knife in WW2: DESCO, VINCE FORGE, MORRIS, BATTERYLESS TELEPHONE, BOMAR and SCHRADER.
This example was acquired from a collector, and shows signs of faithful use. There is some wear to the blade in the form of scratches, and rust spotting from water, but otherwise there is very little wear. A great example, ready to display!
Specifications:
Blade Length: 6 1/2"
Blade Style: Spear Point with Sawback
Overall length: 12 3/8"
Scabbard Length: 8 1/2"
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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