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. The blade ricasso is faintly marked (upside down):
PLUMB
PHILA.
The reverse is marked:
U.S.
MOD. 191[7]
The markings are quite faint, so unfortunately cannot make out the original manufacturing date. The blade and ricasso are almost completely devoid of the original black finish, most likely due to cleaning and use. There is definitely wear, and the blade may have been arsenal reconditioned for reissue in WWII, which is why the markings are faint. It does show sharpening after manufacture, but it is well done, most likely at arsenal. The main edge of the model 1917, such as this one, is mostly ground from one side, while the other side was left flat. The original profile is still mostly intact.
The grip is in very good condition, with almost all of the original "ribbed texture still present. The grip color is a bit light, showing that it may have been cleaned at one point. It also has a crack funning across the right grip scale just beneath the lower flat head retaining bolt.
The leather tip of the canvas scabbard sleeve is deeply marked:
A-K-CO.
1918
R.H.S.
The scabbard is in very good condition, with no real issues with the canvas or leather portions aside from the expected wear from 100 years of age, and a bit of fabric shrinking. Really a great example of one of these scabbards.
Overall in near excellent condition, and a great chance to add to any military knife collection. Ready to display!
Specifications:
Blade Length: 10 1/4"
Blade Style: "Bolo" Machete
Overall length: 15“
Crossguard: 3 3/4”
Scabbard Length: 11"
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