Original U.S. WWI Model 1917 Polished Bolo Knife by Plumb Philadelphia with Rare Steel Scabbard by L.F.&C Dated 1918
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Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very interesting 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. The blade and crossguard look to have been heavily polished and buffed out during the post war period, giving it a fantastic bright look.
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
PHILA.
1918
The reverse is marked:
U.S.
MOD. 1917
Blade and ricasso show light wear from cleaning, but the markings are still clear. The blade is still quite sharp, as would be expected after being fully ground and polished. 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 crossguard is tight to the blade.
The grip is in good condition, with little of the original "ribbed texture, and a nice bright color. There are no major cracks or huge chunks missing, just some chipping around the blade tang and the securing screws. These are some of the brightest grips we’ve seen.
The scabbard is an all steel example with leather belt hanger with the standard wire hanger for the pistol belt. The scabbard is marked as being made by Landers, Frary & Clark and is dated 1918.
The scabbard is in very good condition, with no real issues with the steel or leather portions aside from the expected wear from 100 years of age, and a bit of paint wear. 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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