Item:
ONJR23MJ040

Original U.S. WWI Model 1917 Bolo Knife by Plumb St. Louis with Canvas Scabbard - both dated 1918

Item Description

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice Model 1917 C.T. Bolo knife, manufactured by Fayette R. Plumb Inc, whose main 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 at 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 of this example is marked:

PLUMB
ST. LOUIS
1918

The reverse is marked:

U.S. MOD.
1917 C.T.

The markings are double stamped over due to the first striking being too faint and was fortunately caught by a worker before final production and had it re-struck.

Blade and ricasso still have most of the original black finish, and is in very good condition. It has seen some level of use and sharpening, which has removed the finish from near the edge. There is also the usual runner wear on both sides of the blade. The main edge of the model 1917, such as this one, is mostly ground from one side, while the other side was left flat. There is just some light sharpening from the flat side, which was the quickest way to get the edge back.

The grip is in very good condition, with most of the original "ribbed texture, and a nice
color. There are no major cracks or huge chunks missing, just some chipping around the blade tang and the securing screws. Just how we like to see them, with screws still holding both sides tightly.

The leather tip of the canvas scabbard sleeve is faintly marked:

BRAUER BROS
1918

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 very good lightly used 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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