Item Description
Original Item: Only One Available. This is a 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 nicely marked:
ST LOUIS
[1]918
The reverse is marked:
1917 C.T.
The stamping on the blade is a bit unclear, and it appears that the new factory may have not perfected their blade stamping machinery when this example was produced.
Blade and ricasso still show a good amount of the original black finish, and is in very good condition. There is definitely runner wear from the scabbard, which has worn the finish on the blade flat. There is also definitely post manufacturer sharpening on the front bottom edge. The main edge of the model 1917, such as this one, is mostly ground from one side, while the other side was left flat. Post manufacture sharpening however was done on both sides, so the original edge profile has been modified a bit.
The grip is in very good condition, with a good portion of the original texture. There is some minor chipping on the "finger side" of the grip, where it overhangs the blade tang.
The leather tip of the canvas scabbard sleeve is deeply marked:
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. Overall Very Fine, and a great chance to add to any military knife collection.
- This product is available for international shipping.
- Eligible for all payments - Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, Paypal & Sezzle
