Item Description
Original Items: Only One Set Available. This is an excellent example of a toolset that would have been critical when it came to wired communication during WWII and the following years. These kits were not only used by the Signal Corps but also by Engineers and Airborne Troops as well. This versatile set would have been used for basically anything requiring a knife and pliers, such as stripping wire, crimping blasting caps and so on. While some tool kits are marked as being for a specific element, in all reality anyone could have found use with these tools.
The set includes the following items:
- TL-29 Electrician’s Pocket Knife by Camillus: The TL 29 is often thought of as a WW2 pocket knife but actually predates WW2. The TL-29 started life as the Signal Corps Knife and dates back to at least May of 1919 when the first Army specification was put together. Early knives have elaborate escutcheons with markings indicating the Signal Corps as “SC USA”, “US Signal Corps”, etc, with this one being the later marked TL-29.
These early knives are often just considered Signal Corps Knives. Signal Corps knives are typically marked on their escutcheons with either SC-USA or Signal Corps. Another key identifying feature of these knives is the presence of a half circle cutout on both sides of the screw driver blade like this example.
As the knife progressed through the 1930s, through World War 2, and into the post war era, quality and craftsmanship began to decline. Post World War 2 knives are most frequently made with plastic materials and the more expensive brass bolsters and liners are often replaced with steel. This most likely began during World War 2 as brass was a much needed commodity for other water materials.
A common feature of World War 2 era knives is the simple stamping of "TL-29" into the wood handle which can be seen on this example.
The overall condition of the knife is quite nice, showing signs of use but is without extensive damage.
- TL-13 6 Inch Heavy-Duty Lineman's Pliers: This is a nice, worn example of an earlier pair of lineman’s pliers. Stamped "Utica Drop Forge & Tool Corp." and "Utica N.Y. U.S.A." around the pivot, with "TL-13" across the center. The "TL-13" marking is a model number for the U.S. Signal Corps, indicating that these pliers were made for a military contract.
Lastly is the CS-31 type leather pouch that is marked as SIGNAL CORPS U.S. ARMY. The leather is in good condition but the bottom of the knife pouch does have stitch loss present.
A great set that comes more than ready for further research and display.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
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