Original Item: Only One Available. This is an excellent condition Model 1917 trench knife, with hardwood handle, triangular stiletto blade, and aged replica leather scabbard with standard GI pistol belt hook attachment.

The inside of the knuckle guard is is nicely marked:

A.C.C.O. U.S.A. 1917

This indicates 1917 manufacture by American Cutlery Corporation, of Chicago Illinois. This company, established in 1865, manufactured a multitude of edged weapons, as well as other products.

Notable features of this example:
- Triangular 9" black steel blade. Blade has over 90% of original finish, with just the usual runner marks, and little to no signs of wear. The corners are still mostly sharp, and most of the wear seems to be from the scabbard itself. Really a choice example!

- Very good condition wood grip. Has a few tiny dents, but a great color, and solid shape without the usual rounding from use.

- Excellent condition spiked steel hand guard, with no dents or bends we can see. There is just a bit of light wear on the edges, with minor surface rust present.

- Leather scabbard marked JEWELL - 1918 with steel throat and tip marked: M.S. Scabbard is in solid condition with leather still painted and soft, though it does show signs of wear and use.

- Standard pistol belt brass attachment hook

An excellent example that would make a perfect addition to any Great War or edged weapons collection.

Dimensions:
Blade length: 8 5/8”
Overall length: 14 1/4”
Scabbard length: 9 7/8"
Handguard: 4 1/2”x 5”

The first official U.S. trench knife adopted for service issue was the U.S. M1917 trench knife designed by Henry Disston & Sons, and based on examples of trench knives then in service with the French Army. The M1917 featured a triangular stiletto blade, wooden grip, metal knuckle guard, and a rounded pommel. The M1917 proved unsatisfactory in service, and a slightly improved version, the M1918, was adopted within months. Despite this, the M1918 is almost identical to the M1917, differing primarily in the construction and appearance of the knuckle guard. Usable only as stabbing weapons, the M1917 and M1918 frequently suffered broken blades. Their limited utility and general unpopularity caused the AEF to empanel a testing board in 1918 to test various trench knives and select a replacement.